What do I do as a partner against the aggression? | Aggression in depression

What do I do as a partner against the aggression?

In the confrontation with aggression in the partnership, the same rules of conduct and manners apply as in any interpersonal contact. The aggressor is shown clear boundaries and made aware that the attacking behaviour is not to be tolerated. Helpful here is a clear language and expression, which should not appear threatening or disrespectful, since this can inflame the aggressive behavior again.

Reasons for the aggression should be found, why the partner might react in this way. Mental constrictions can play a role here, in which the patient perceives his environment only in a reduced way and does not fully understand it because he suffers from depression. Likewise, a large number of people, for example family members, when talking about the illness and coping strategies with the depressed person, also act as an attack.

For this reason, the person who should always be the most trusted person to talk to with regard to the illness and aggressive behaviour should always be the person of greatest trust. It is essential to call for police help in the case of behaviour that endangers others or oneself. All parties involved should keep a safe distance in order not to irritate the aggressor unnecessarily and to keep distance to their own safety.

What to do when the aggression turns against itself?

In a symptomatology where aggression turns away from the environment and is directed against itself, open and understanding communication is required. Here it is important to take the relatives’ statements, fears and aggressions seriously. Willingness to talk, especially on the part of the confidant, is the basis.

A regular daily routine with integrated movement, such as walking, can reduce aggression and stop the progressive course of the depression. At this point, attempts to motivate people to engage in all activities should be supported, but only if the will of the person affected is taken into account. In supposedly hopeless cases, where the motivations and support do not bring about any change, third parties should be involved.

It is conceivable here to seek medical help, for example from a family doctor who already knows the sick person and thus has a basis of trust. In addition, he or she has access to medical and psychotherapeutic options, such as cognitive and interpersonal behavioural therapies.