Navigating Mental Health Challenges as a Couple

While support from your loved ones can help when you navigate mental health challenges better, it can't make them disappear overnight. Mental health challenges continue to exist, even when you're in loving and healthy relationships. 

In this article, we help you understand how mental health concerns can affect relationships and learn how to overcome these challenges, together.

Also read: Is It Time to See A Therapist?

Do mental health concerns affect relationships?

Approximately one in ten people live with a mental health condition globally. So, it's only natural that there may be times when couples may need to navigate mental health concerns in their relationship.

However, no matter how loving and supportive your partner is, it can still be difficult to open up about your mental health concerns. Often, individuals may choose to navigate their concerns alone, which can not only add to their stress but also affect their relationships. However, in every healthy relationship, challenges should be handled as a unit, which might also include mental health challenges. This does not mean that your partner has to be your therapist or treat you - it simply means that they will have to support you in your journey. 

From a breakdown in communication to a lack of understanding, mental health challenges can be difficult in a relationship. It can be hard to understand why your partner is withdrawing from you or keeping up with their fluctuating mood. You, too, could be feeling stressed from taking care of your partner, making you feel you aren't getting enough support for your concerns. 

While mental health challenges can strain your relationship, there is a way forward. It doesn't have to signal the end, but can be the beginning of a better and healthier future.

Also read: 5 Therapist-Recommended Tools to Improve Your Relationship

What you can do to overcome mental health challenges

When you feel overwhelmed by stress, fluctuating emotions, and a lack of communication, it's hard to imagine a healthy future for your relationship. 

But, there are ways to maintain a loving relationship, despite your mental health concerns.

Communication is key

No matter what kind of challenges you may be facing, it is important to communicate with your partner. A lack of communication can make both you and your partner second guess themselves, not knowing how they should proceed.

Being open and honest about your mental health can also encourage your partner to do the same. When you feel more comfortable talking to your partner about your concerns, it can be easier for them to know how they can support you.

Spend quality time together

Mental health concerns can be incredibly isolating, but your partner's support can help. Emotional struggles can take a toll on a person, making them want to isolate themselves. That's why it's important to spend some quality time with each other. 

When you're dealing with hurdles in your relationship, it can be tempting to put the blame on the other person; but playing the blame game only strains the relationship further. 

Spending time with your partner, talking to them and understanding their needs, helps you recognise that it's the situation that's difficult and not the relationship.

Build a good support system

Support from your partner can be incredibly helpful, but it is important to recognise that it won't always be available. When your partner is dealing with mental health challenges of their own, it can be difficult for them to offer the support you need.

Hence, building a strong support system is crucial, for you and your partner. Additional support can not only make you feel less alone but also help you work on your mental health outside the relationship.

Find the right care for your concerns

Ultimately, it's important to recognise that you can't fix everything yourself; sometimes, professional support is necessary.

Whether it's seeking individual counselling or opting for couples therapy, professional support can help you address your concerns effectively. Working with a couples therapist can not only help you identify your emotional concerns but understand how they may be affecting your relationship.

Also read: 10 Tips to Navigate a Difficult Conversation With Your Partner

Building a loving and healthy relationship is possible, despite your mental health concerns. Learning how to address these challenges effectively, can help you strengthen your relationship further, and work towards a happier future.

Sources:

1. When Mental Illness Strikes: Tips for Couples. (2016, May 17). Psych Central. https://psychcentral.com/lib/when-mental-illness-strikes-tips-for-couples

2. mindbodygreen. (2020, September 2). 11 Ways To Help A Partner Going Through A Mental Health Slump. Mindbodygreen. https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/ways-to-support-someone-dealing-with-mental-illness

3. Saunders, L., & Saunders, L. (2022, November 1). 10 Ways On How to Cope With Your Mental Health Issues in a Relationship. Marriage Advice - Expert Marriage Tips & Advice. https://www.marriage.com/advice/mental-health/mental-health-in-relationship/