Being in a relationship with someone who is depressed can feel overwhelming. You’re showing up, staying patient, and trying to manage--often while feeling unseen, unappreciated, even resentful. This book is for you. Renowned researcher and cognitive-behavioral therapist David J. A. Dozois walks you through everything you need to know about depression and how to help your partner recover. Learn evidence-based strategies and dos and don'ts for communicating sensitively with your partner, helping them find the right treatment, encouraging them to reengage with activities they enjoy, and challenging negative thinking. Dr. Dozois also provides crucial guidance for attending to your own needs and well-being. For couples seeking to keep their bond strong and overcome depression together, this book offers a grounded, hopeful path forward.
Table of Contents:
Introduction: Making the Most of This Book
I. Supporting Your Partner
1. Understanding the Experience of Depression
2. Supporting Your Partner Effectively
3. Becoming Informed about Treatments That Help
4. Encouraging Treatment
5. Helping Your Partner Engage in Antidepressant Behavior
6. Helping Your Partner Change Negative Thinking
7. Being Aware of Warning Signs and Managing Expectations
II. Supporting Yourself
8. Making Sense of Your Feelings and Tending to Your Needs
9. Understanding Your Responsibility
10. Putting Structure and Routine Back into Your Life
III. Supporting Your Relationship
11. Common Pitfalls and Thorny Issues
12. The Power of Negative Thinking
13. Communication and Problem Solving
14. Acceptance Strategies
IV. The Final Word
15. When Your Partner Improves (or Doesn’t Improve)
Resources
Bibliography
Index
About the Author :
David J. A. Dozois, PhD, is an internationally known depression researcher and cognitive-behavioral therapist. He is Professor of Psychology at the University of Western Ontario, is a Fellow and two-time president of the Canadian Psychological Association, and has held leadership roles in many other national and international organizations. Dr. Dozois has authored over 300 scientific publications and presents his work widely. He also maintains a small private practice.
Review :
“I love this book! Finally, here are practical, incredibly useful strategies for understanding your partner’s depression and what you can do to help.â€--John M. Gottman, PhD, coauthor of Fight Right
“Anyone who wants to improve their relationship with their loved one with depression should read this book! With clarity and compassion, Dr. Dozois shows how to provide emotional support while encouraging your partner to reengage with life.â€--Judith S. Beck, PhD, President, Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy
“When your partner is entangled with depressed mood and all it can bring, how can you stay connected without trying to 'fix' them? Dr. Dozois offers you a grounded, evidence-based way to respond--one that helps you promote meaningful change and care for yourself along the way. A compassionate and deeply practical guide.â€--Steven C. Hayes, PhD, author of Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life
“You aren't your partner's therapist--but you can make a real difference in their recovery from depression. Dr. Dozois is a highly respected researcher and gifted clinician who brings years of wisdom to this excellent book. He gives you tools to be a better listener, communicator, and ally. The clear guidelines on setting limits and self-care are so essential for those supporting a partner.â€--Robert L. Leahy, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medical College; Director, American Institute for Cognitive Therapy
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