How do you deal with a depressed spouse?

My opinion on this, is don't try to understand them, because you never will and it may end up making things worse. But you can be there for them, you can be their listener when they need to talk, you hug them when they don't feel like talking, you make sure they eat, you make sure they get out of the house and do something that makes them happy. When someone is depressed they feel like the whole world is against them, like there's a black hole eating them alive and having someone there that says "no, you're alone" or is their light in all this darkness it's going to make them feel a lot better. It's not going to cure them but knowing they have support makes all the difference.

Listen to them, try not to find a way to fix all their problems. Sometimes people just need to feel loved and heard

Validate their feelings. Support the fact that they are not feeling well. Remind them That it's ok their not feeling themselves right now. Try and encourage healthy activity, walks, art projects, music. Encourage them To do daily tasks, to seek Out the sunshine. If it's something their upset about, be available to listen and talk many times. It will take more than once. Always reaffirm the fact that you love them No matter what.

Don't pretend you know what they are going through or try to "cheer them up." Being depressed isn't just about being sad. Ask them how you can help and be supportive. Even encourage them to talk to a therapist.

Depression is a very serious thing and sometimes we have loved ones that are going through this the best thing you can do is love them be there when they don't even want you around listen to them when they need someone to talk to hold them when all they do is cry speak positivity in their life when they are most down side by their side when they think everyone is going to leave be their rock when they are weak support them and never judge them

Be their support, and right hand. Love them as much as you can, and be there for them as always. Leading them out of low moods can help, and helping them to take care of themselves. Be openly optimistic and positive, caring and kindhearted. Opposites attest in this sense. Love them for who they are, and know that things will get better.

Be there for them and let them know you are always willing to listen if they need to talk. Try to understand the illness so you can support them as much as you can.

Recognise that your depressed spouse might be requiring additional support, You might be able to alter expectations of your spouse as you consider that they might not be able to function as per normal while depressed. You might consider promoting self care for your spouse or encouragement to talk about his/her feelings, check in regarding thoughts of suicide and safety. Listen non judgementally and reassure your spouse that you are there to support them through what they are experiencing. You might be able to remind your spouse of their value to you or maybe even provide space to think if that is what they require. Sometimes it is helpful to encourage and engage in activities your spouse finds pleasurable eg walks, sports etc.

Assure. Reassure and reassure and reassure. Stay. Know more about your spouse's condition. Help him/her in the healing process.

I would show them that they're not alone. And do everything I could to help then get through the depression.

Just offer support through words and allow them to speak to you. Words mean more than anything, even though they may not seem it.

Younger me (18 years ago, start of marriage): whatever problem she's dealing with, help solve it and the sadness will go away! Or, if I can just convince her to go to therapy, the problem will be fixed! Or, just wait it out, provide support, she'll find help when she needs it, then things will certainly get better! After 18 years of marriage: I really don't know the best way. But there are some things to hang my hat on: show love how you can. Listen. Offer solutions only judiciously, when she wants to hear them, not prescriptively. Look for ways to reduce stress around the house--very little bit could help. Set a good example. Don't neglect your own needs completely, or else you won't be able to stand it and will leave, which will leave her in worse shape than ever.