Watching a loved one, particularly a partner, suffer from clinical depression can be a major downer in more ways than one. Experts have noted a phenomenon in which partners of those diagnosed with depression also suffer from it, to an extent. First, the depressed partner has a negative outlook on everything, and that outlook spills into his or her partner's life as well. For example, a career promotion might be looked at in a negative light – instead of focusing on the great opportunity, the depressed partner might instead focus on the extra time his or her partner will spend at the office. Eventually, that harmful attitude will have an impact on the non-depressed partner, who may internalize feelings of failure and inadequacy. Depression has an impact on motivation, so when the depressed partner internalizes feelings of learned helplessness – including not taking care of household duties – the non-depressed partner is left to pick up the slack, leading to feelings of helplessness and being overwhelmed. Knowing that certain topics of conversation and interactions can set off an episode of depression can prevent the non-depressed partner from discussing topics that may make the other person depressed. The non-depressed partner may agree to do things he or she doesn't want to, such as taking up the slack in the household or cancelling social plans. Basically, depression has a major impact on both partners, no matter who suffers from it. The good news is that with therapy and medications, depression is highly treatable. And with a stronger partner, it's easier to get through those dark times.