Almost half of the population (adults) will experience some sort of mental illness. This can include: PTSD, Major depressive disorder, anxiety and alcoholism. This could and most probably cause a huge impact on your relationships and this is why:
Common feelings:
Issues that are common within couples that are affected with some sort of mental health may include: shame, guilt, resentment & stress (pressure). Feelings that may occur are as follows: embarrassment & guilt about their condition. These are all common feelings and aren’t anything to be ashamed about.
Intimacy:
Another source of action that may occur when someone’s feeling low in their self is disinterest in sex. They may start to feel inadequate to meet your needs and feel they won’t do a good performance. Having low self-esteem could lead to decreased bonding between you and your partner and will result in unmet needs within the relationship.
Seeking help for your relationship:
One way to help ensure your relationship is as perfect as it used to be is having marriage/couples therapy. This is very common especially with couples that have children. Another way of help is trying to open to one and another about how you’re feeling and ways you could help each other feel good again.
Is it reaching breaking point?
Most couples find it hard to cope after a series of ‘episodes’ the male or female has relapsed on. Many couples question is this the end. Well is it the end?
These are many ways you’ll know if it’s the ‘end’:
- Lack of interest
- Your partner has ‘gave up’ helping you
- You’re constantly arguing with your partner
- Lack of intimacy
- You don’t remember the last time you smiled
To prevent these from happening I personally advise anyone out there suffering to speak up. Get help. Take control. See your GP. Speak to your partner. Try counselling. Try therapy. Couples therapy or marriage counselling. But PLEASE try your hardest. It’s a journey not a race.
Mental health & me 