Supporting a depressed partner: 4 evidence-based treatments that work

When you stand beside someone you love, you promise to be there “in sickness and in health.” But what happens when the sickness isn’t a broken bone, but something deeper and harder to fight, like depression?

It can feel lonely and confusing when your partner struggles with overwhelming sadness, fatigue and a loss of interest in things they once loved. Unfortunately, depression affects many of us. About 13% of people aged 12 years and older in the U.S. reported having symptoms of depression. That’s roughly 1 in 8 people. 

When someone in a relationship is depressed, it puts a significant strain on the marriage or partnership. Depression can impact communication, intimacy and the day-to-day balance of responsibilities. It’s important to remember that relationships work both ways: While a high-quality relationship can offer protection against stress, negative interactions with a partner can actually increase the risk of anxiety and depression. 

4 evidence-based treatments for depression 

Depression is a medical condition, not a character flaw or a choice, and it can respond well to treatment. Encouraging your partner to seek professional help is one of the most loving and supportive things you can do. Modern psychiatry offers several effective, evidence-based treatments, many of which work well on their own or together as part of a comprehensive plan. 

1. Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, remains one of the most widely used and effective treatments for depression. Several approaches are backed by strong research, including:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) — CBT helps people identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns. 

• Interpersonal therapy (IPT) — IPT focuses on improving relationships and communication, which is helpful when depression affects partnership dynamics.

• Family therapy — Family therapy helps loved ones understand the condition and how they can help improve support at home. 

• Couples therapy — Couples therapy creates a space for honest communication, emotional safety and shared problem-solving. 

Up to 75% of people who engage in psychotherapy see meaningful improvement in symptoms. Psychotherapy can also empower partners by giving them the tools to better communicate and connect. 

2. Medication management

Antidepressant medications, such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), are often part of a first-line treatment plan. For many people, especially those with moderate to severe depression, medication can significantly reduce symptoms and make psychotherapy more effective. 

Medication is safe, research-backed and commonly used, especially when symptoms interfere with daily life. 

3. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a noninvasive, FDA-cleared treatment for treatment-resistant depression. It uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. TMS can be helpful for people who haven’t found relief through medication alone. 

More than 4 out of 5 people with treatment-resistant depression respond well to TMS, and about two-thirds achieve full remission. 

TMS is painless, requires no anesthesia and allows your partner to return to their usual activities immediately afterward. 

4. Spravato®

Spravato® is another FDA-cleared treatment designed for adults with treatment-resistant depression or depression with suicidal thoughts. Often used alongside an oral antidepressant, Spravato® works on a different brain pathway than traditional medications. 

Symptoms can rapidly improve, often within hours to days rather than weeks. Because it’s administered in a controlled medical setting, your partner is monitored closely for comfort and safety. 

How can you be a supportive anchor?

Your role as a supportive partner is one of the most important factors in your loved one’s recovery. Your support, kindness and patience make a real difference. 

• Encourage treatment.

Suggest they schedule an appointment or offer to go with them. For example, instead of saying, “You need to call the therapist,” try, “Would you like me to call and help you set up that first appointment?”

• Don’t take it personally.

This is essential. The anger, withdrawal or negativity is a symptom of the illness, not a reflection of your worth or your partner’s love for you. Learning to separate yourself from the symptoms is a powerful act of support. 

• Help with practical tasks. 

Depression drains energy. Simple tasks, such as grocery shopping or laundry, can feel impossible. Step in to help with these things, perhaps by simply asking, “What is one thing I can take off your plate today?”

• Keep making plans together. 

Continue to invite your partner to do things you both enjoy, even if it’s just watching a movie or taking a short walk. Don’t push too hard if they decline, but keep trying and inviting them. 

• Reassure your unconditional love. 

Let them know, regularly and genuinely, that you love them no less because of their illness. Your commitment is solid. 

• Encourage self-care.

Healthy habits like movement, quality sleep and good nutrition are part of recovery. Encourage these habits and invite them to join you for a walk or a healthy meal. 

• Find your own support system. 

Being a partner to someone with depression can be exhausting, and your mental health matters, too. Seek out support groups or talk to your own therapist to make sure you have the energy to be there for your partner. 

The path forward starts with Psychiatry Treatment Centers

The road to recovery is a journey. There will be good days and bad days, but every step forward is a victory. Supporting a partner with depression takes patience, compassion and the right resources. At Psychiatry Treatment Centers, we offer comprehensive, evidence-based care across our locations in California and Georgia. Our team provides stigma-free, culturally mindful care for people from all walks of life, including our military service members, veterans and their families.

If you or your partner are seeking a path to relief, we’re ready to provide compassionate, clinically accurate care. Finding the right treatment plan is the key to healing for your partner and for your family. 

Reach out to our team by phone today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment. You can also book your initial appointment online now.