In this episode, we share Margaret’s story of living with a partner who struggles with treatment-resistant depression and anxiety while raising a child. Margaret opens up about the challenges of feeling unsupported, navigating parenting, and maintaining connection in the face of a mental health disorder. Clinical psychologist Dr. Anita Sanz provides insights on recognizing when depression — not the person — is speaking, and strategies for setting boundaries and maintaining communication. This episode sheds light on the loneliness caregivers often experience, while offering hope and practical guidance for families navigating depression together.
Primary Topics Covered
Timestamps
00:00 Intro to Giving Voice to Depression
01:07 About the podcast and its mission
02:15 Listener Margaret’s story and request for guidance
03:26 The challenges of living with a partner with depression
05:13 The loneliness of caregiving in silence
06:32 How Margaret’s understanding of depression has evolved
08:19 The struggle when tools aren’t being used by a depressed partner
09:29 Longing for support and partnership while raising a child
10:59 The difficulty of caregiving when depression pushes you away
12:37 Lack of support from family and friends
13:34 What caregivers most wish others understood
15:05 The challenge of managing parenting and partnership with depression
15:48 Margaret’s closing thoughts on loneliness and survival strategies
17:11 Reflections on the need for connection in relationships
18:38 Dr. Sanz on separating depression from the person
19:47 How to create a plan for depressive episodes
22:12 Respecting the person but not respecting depression
23:30 Using wellness recovery action plans in relationships
24:17 Including a depressed partner even in small ways
25:15 Closing reflections and resources
Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.com
Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/
Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/
