What to Do When Your Partner Is Depressed

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.

• Introduction: Making the Most of This BookI. Supporting Your Partner with Depression1. Understanding the Experience of Depression2. Supporting Your Partner Effectively3. Becoming Informed about Treatments That Help4. Encouraging Treatment5. Helping Your Partner Engage in Antidepressant Behavior6. Helping Your Partner Change Negative Thinking7. Being Aware of Warning Signs and Managing ExpectationsII. Supporting Yourself through Your Partner’s Depression8. Making Sense of Your Feelings and Tending to Your Needs9. Understanding Your Responsibility10. Putting Structure and Routine Back into Your LifeIII. Supporting Your Relationship11. Common Pitfalls and Thorny Issues12. The Power of Negative Thinking13. Communication and Problem Solving14. Acceptance StrategiesIV. The Final Word15. When Your Partner Improves (or Doesn’t Improve)ResourcesBibliographyIndex

“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-