Depression and Relationships

Depression: is one of the most common mental health struggles. And while depression is a commonly known and occurring mental health struggle, the full impact of depression on the persons impacted by it, is not something that is largely talked about. Today we will take the time to discuss depression and how it impacts and is impacted by relationships. 

Depression is often characterized by a set of symptoms including things like fatigue, social withdrawal, lack of enjoyment for day-to-day tasks, negative thought patterns, and an increase in feelings of sadness, hopelessness or generally feeling down. 

As human beings, we are social creatures that are in constant relationship with other humans in some form or fashion, ranging from casual acquaintances to intimate partnerships and very close friends or families. 

The connection between depression and relationships is an important one. So let’s unpack 2 questions: How is depression impacted by relationships? And How does depression impact relationships? 

How is depression impacted by relationships? 

The connection between depression and relationships is a well-researched one, and the results are fairly consistent. In a systematic review of fifty-one different studies assessing the connection between depression symptoms or outcomes and relationships, the researchers found a theme of a significant positive or protective effects between the presents of perceived emotional/ social support or the strength of the social support systems and the symptoms that the depressed individual was experiencing. (1) 

This research is further confirmed by a longitudinal study that reports that relational strain or poor social support correlates with higher risk factors for depression, and conversely, higher levels of social support correlate with reduced risks of depression symptoms. (2)

These studies give us a glimpse into the importance of quality relationships in protecting against depression and increasing positive mental health outcomes. So if you were previously in doubt, relationships do matter in our mental health and wellness as human beings.

How does depression impact relationships? 

When we look at the symptoms of depression and consider the impact of relationships on the depression symptoms, one of the most prominent symptoms that stand out is social withdrawal or the urge to isolate. For most people, this will increase the suspicion that depression may negatively impact relational health, and the research indicates that this wondering may be correct. 

Relationships vary in types and closeness, so let’s consider a few different types of relationships as they may be impacted by depression symptoms. 

When we look at the impact of depression on marriages or partnership relationships, there is a correlation between marital dissatisfaction and depression, in what may be a reciprocating fashion. There are some indications that marital dissatisfaction can lead to or increase depression and that depression can lead to or increase marital dissatisfaction. Some variations in gender were noted. (3)

In studies evaluating the impact of depression on families, maternal depression was noted to correlate with higher levels of family conflict and families with both parents struggling with depression were noted to increase risk factors for children. (4)

And as anticipated, social withdrawal and isolation are reported to decrease both the quality and quantity of friendship and social support. (5)

So, unfortunately, the research confirms, that depression does or can negatively impact relationships. 

So what do we do about it? 

I know, that reading the above research can feel like a pretty negative discussion. There is hope here. Depression can be treated and managed and depression symptoms can be improved with the use and application of quality therapy strategies. There are also numerous tools that exist to help increase connections and strengthen those important relationships that serve as protective and healing elements in the depression management journey. Cognitive therapies, behavioral modification, and medical interventions can all be a part of the healing journey. 

If you are struggling with depression, let someone help you. If you are located in Texas or the DFW area, a member of our therapy team would love to connect with you.  We offer depression therapy through online therapy services or in person at our Arlington. TX-based therapy office.