Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders in the U.S., affecting 21 million adults and 5 million teens each year. But this condition doesn’t just affect the person experiencing it; it also affects family members. If you have someone who is going through depression, it’s important to know how it affects the family unit and the relationships within it. Families with depression often benefit from professional support like family therapy and group counseling. 

The Ways Depression Impacts Families 

Emotional Toll on Family Members 

When a family member is battling depression, the emotional strain is tangible. Loved ones often experience feelings of helplessness, frustration and sadness as they witness the person struggle. This can lead to a breakdown in communication and emotional intimacy, causing family members to feel isolated and disconnected. 

Disruption of Family Dynamics

Depression can significantly alter the roles and responsibilities within a family. The person experiencing depression may find it difficult to handle their usual tasks, leading to imbalance in the home. For instance, they may become less involved in household chores, placing additional burden on the other adult. 

Impact on Children 

Children may be resilient, but this doesn’t mean they don’t feel the effects of a parent's depression. In fact, children are especially vulnerable and may not be able to understand why their parents are unhappy or distant. Some children even take on caregiving roles prematurely, feeling the need to support their parents emotionally and physically. This role reversal can even affect their emotional development and academic performance. 

Financial Strain

When depression is left untreated, it can affect a person’s ability to work and maintain consistent employment. A loss of income, combined with medical expenses for treatment and therapy, can place a family under immense financial pressure. This can exacerbate tensions in the household, further distancing family members from each other. Furthermore, the other parent or adult in the household may have to take on a second job to bring in more money. 

Treating Depression Within Families 

As you can see, depression is a disease that can impact the entire family unit. Treating depression within a family requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the needs of both the individual experiencing depression and their family members. Individual therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can help the person with depression develop coping strategies and address negative thought patterns. Family therapy can also improve communication and understanding within the family.

Medications such as antidepressants may be used to treat the symptoms of depression. They should be carefully managed by a healthcare provider as they can have adverse side effects. Other healthy lifestyle changes that can help manage depression are: 

• Education and awareness. Learn about depression, its symptoms, its effects and how it impacts families. 
• Supportive environment. Create a supportive environment with open, honest communication and empathy. 
• Healthy habits. Encourage healthy habits such as physical activity (riding bikes, family walks, swimming), diets rich in nutrients and adequate sleep. 
• Foster social connections. Maintain connections with friends and extended family members. 
• Manage stress. Develop healthy ways to cope with stress, such as mindfulness, meditation or yoga. This is important, as you don’t want the person with depression turning to substances to cope. 
• Seek external support. Participate in support groups for individuals with depression and their families. Mental health organizations, hotlines and counseling services can also be helpful. 

Seek Support for Depression and Substance Use in Easton PA

Recovery Cove understands the full scope of depression and how it can lead to unhealthy dynamics within a family, including enabling, codependency and substance use. If you or a loved one is struggling with depression and substance use, contact our team today at 484-549-COVE. In addition to our evidence-based and holistic therapies, we also have family therapy, support and education.