I've been dating a guy for the past couple of months...very intense, since we were friends and coworkers before we starting dating. As we get closer, the depression he's battled in the past seems to become more of an issue. There are other complicating factors - work for him is incredibly challenging right now...he's having major difficulties with the team he manages and is feeling very attacked. He has trouble motivation, has no energy, and has wide mood swings (between happy and very not happy...luckily there is no anger in his swings). He's taking Cymbalta and says that the pills help him tremendously, but at the same time he sometimes blames the pills for making him feel the way he does.
Any tips for dealing or helping him? I really like this guy, and our connection seems very real and dynamic on several levels. I'm intimidated by this depression thing (never dealt with anything like it before), and am looking for any advice on how to deal! Thanks!
2007-12-11 16:45:48 · 3 answers · asked by Molly 3 in Health ➔ Mental Health
1) A friend to stand by you through tough times is a great benefit toward your healing
2) This is HIS DEPRESSION. You have no responsibility for his symptoms or his healing. While you can lighten his load in the moments, his healing is ultimately UP TO HIM.
2007-12-11 16:56:52 · answer #1 · answered by Hope 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As someone who is both depressed and dating someone who has similar problems, I'd just say take the mood swings with a grain of salt. When he's most depressed, everything (including the way he feels about you) will be worse, therefore some of the problems you have when he's moody may not be such a big deal in his "normal" reality.
This time of year is rough for a lot of people, with the darkness and cold and holidays, and it doesn't sound like the work situation's making it any better. Just be supportive and try not to be too judgmental. The pressure from others to be happy can make it harder to be happy, so try to keep it low-pressure. Good luck with your new relationship.
2007-12-12 02:03:00 · answer #2 · answered by sarcastro1976 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just be there for him, support him, and let him have his space when he needs it.
2007-12-12 00:54:31 · answer #3 · answered by BillsFan625 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋