Talking to your partner about your mental health can be a daunting task. It's not for the faint of hearts. You may be worried about how they will react, or you may not know where to start.
But it's important to remember that your partner loves you and wants to support you. Here are some tips on how to talk to your partner about your mental health in an empathic way:
Choose the right time and place. Don't try to have this conversation when you're both stressed or tired. Choose a time when you can both relax and focus on each other.
Start by telling your partner how you're feeling. Be honest and open about your symptoms and how they're affecting your life.
Explain why you're telling them. Let them know that you're sharing this information because you trust them and you need their support.
Avoid blaming or shaming yourself. It's important to remember that you're not alone in this. Many people struggle with mental health issues.
Be prepared to answer questions. Your partner may have a lot of questions about your mental health. Be prepared to answer them as honestly as you can.
Ask for what you need. Let your partner know what kind of support you need from them. This could be anything from listening to you vent to helping you find a therapist.
It's also important to remember that your partner may not be able to understand everything you're going through. That's okay. Just be patient and keep communicating with them. With time and understanding, they will be able to offer you the support you need.
Hope this tiny nugget served its purpose. Until next time!