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Poor mental health in school going children has been directly related to school dropout, difficulties in learning, behavioral problems, poor performance in school and truancy. Schools provide a great setting to promote mental well being, prevent mental illness, facilitate early identification and intervention for children with mental illnesses and combat stigma associated with mental illness. Substance abuse also continues to be highly prevalent in the school setting with opportunity for induction into substance abuse.

Our work in this area focuses on mental health integration in schools as well as developing interventions that prevent early onset of mental illnesses and address risk of substance abuse.

Couples therapy, especially when addressing depression, plays a pivotal role in enhancing the well-being of both individuals and the relationship as a whole. Depression can have a profound impact on couples, straining communication, intimacy, and overall connection. Here are a few key points about depression therapy for couples:

1. Shared Understanding: Depression therapy provides a platform for couples to understand the intricacies of depression and its effects on each partner. This shared understanding helps to foster empathy and reduces misunderstandings.
2. Effective Communication: Couples struggling with depression often face challenges in communication. Therapy equips partners with tools to communicate openly, express emotions, and actively listen to one another.
3. Joint Coping Strategies: Therapists help couples develop coping strategies that can be applied collectively to manage depressive episodes. These strategies may include stress reduction techniques, daily routines, and lifestyle adjustments.
4. Individual Support: While therapy focuses on the relationship, it also acknowledges each individual’s unique experiences with depression. Partners learn how to support each other’s personal journeys and offer encouragement.
5. Rebuilding Intimacy: Depression can erode intimacy. Therapy guides couples in rebuilding emotional and physical intimacy by addressing barriers, creating safe spaces, and nurturing connection.
6. Conflict Resolution: Couples often experience increased conflict due to depression-related stressors. Therapy teaches conflict resolution skills, allowing partners to address disagreements in a healthier and more productive manner.
7. Setting Realistic Expectations: Depression therapy assists couples in setting realistic expectations for each other during difficult times. Partners learn to support without unrealistic demands or pressures.
8. Long-Term Relationship Strengthening: The tools acquired during depression therapy can extend beyond the immediate challenges. Couples gain insights that enhance the overall quality and longevity of their relationship.
9. Professional Guidance: Therapists provide a neutral and professional perspective. They offer guidance, strategies, and insights that partners might not have considered on their own.
10. Hope and Resilience: Depression therapy instills a sense of hope and resilience within the relationship. Couples learn that, with dedication and effort, they can navigate the challenges of depression and emerge stronger together.

Ultimately, depression therapy for couples aims to create a supportive, understanding, and resilient partnership. By addressing depression as a team, couples can build a foundation of communication, empathy, and mutual support that benefits both their individual well-being and the health of their relationship.