[Idiot17]

How to you discuss depression and mental health with a partner you've been with for a year and has no idea (other than scars) that you suffer from mental health ?

[Michelea]

There are probably many "correct" answers to that, but I can tell you the way I discussed it with the couple of people I really talked about it with. Maybe you would feel comfortable doing this way, or maybe someone else will tell you another way you like better.

I chose to start with a pretty general, pretty short, explanation of the least complicated of things, then let them ask questions about it. This eventually led to more details, and then to the more complicated things. They, for the most part, led the conversation with their questions.

The conversation I had with one person covered everything in one sitting.

The conversation I had with the other person was broken up into smaller conversations over 2-3 of days. Mostly because I felt like breaking it up into smaller doses worked better for them.

You obviously care a great deal about this person, and I think that will help guide you in the best way to have this discussion.

I don't really know the answer to this one...I think thats part of the reason I'm avoiding relationships atm...

Has your partner ever said anything about your scars? Perhaps if they mention them you might be able to turn it into a conversation where you explain more about you so they have more of an idea.

Or when they ask you how you are just generally, if you happen to be having a bad day be honest about it and then explain...

My guess is that you partner might have more of an idea than you think. They might just be leaving you to talk about it in your own time as and when you want to.

((((((Idiot17)))))

[Fuzzybear]

(((((((((( Idiot17 )))))))))))

It's the same with me. I have a friend for four years now; and after all of this time, he still does not get it. I explained it to him the best I can. He tries to understand, but comes up short. Funny thing is that his sister suffers from depression. And I think she's had it for most of her life.

There had been times, when I talk to him about it, he would just suddenly change the subject.

I don't have an answer for you. If I like someone, I would try to understand and research any kind of problem they have.