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“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.”

—Robert L. Leahy, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medical College; Director, American Institute for Cognitive Therapy


“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.”

—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.”

—Steven C. Hayes, PhD, author of Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life


“I love this book! Finally, here are practical, incredibly useful strategies for understanding your partner’s depression and what you can do to help.”

—John M. Gottman, PhD, coauthor of Fight Right

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Table of Contents

Introduction: Making the Most of This Book

I. Supporting Your Partner with Depression

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 through Your Partner’s Depression

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

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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 200 scientific publications and presents his work widely. He also maintains a small private practice.

• Author's website
• All titles by David J. A. Dozois

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Audience

Anyone whose spouse or partner is struggling with depression; also of interest to mental health professionals.