Recovery from depression begins with recognition of the illness and with open and honest communication with your healthcare professional and your partner. Once identified, depression is a highly treatable illness.
Antidepressant medications can be very effective in treating depression.
However, some commonly prescribed antidepressants may have a negative impact on sexual function and desire. This can cause additional stress on a relationship as recovery from the depressive episode begins. The following questions about how to cope with depression's impact on relationships and sexual intimacy are often asked of healthcare professionals. First ask yourself whether this is your partner's usual style. If your partner is usually more cheerful, outgoing and emotionally available, then depression may be the cause of this change.