You've already read how walking the walk can help your body confront the more debilitating effects of depression, but there's still more you can do. Silence may be golden in some situations, but resolving difficulties is not one of those situations. Good relationships can weather all manner of storms, but you've both got to know which way the wind is blowing. If you're married, it comes down to the “for better or worse, in sickness and in health” aspects of the ceremony.

It's Your Turn to Carry the Load

In all relationships, the ideal give-and-take on both parts is 50 percent. That's the ideal, and life is never ideal. There are good times and bad times, and often the bad things seem to come in clusters. It's as if the fates were toying with you to see just how much you can take.

So, if you've just had a root canal, are feeling boxed in by seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and can't remember the last time your partner said, “I love you,” realize that all this is temporary. Your mouth will heal, the sun will come out again, and if your partner still hasn't said those three little words, try saying them yourself. It might be your turn to carry the load.

When I Said, “I Do,” I Wasn't Thinking about This

It's easy to be with someone, when everything is fine — when you're feeling great, looking good, and enjoying what life has to offer. During the down times, however, it's not that much fun to be with someone who is trolling the bottom, looking for a place to bed down among the bottom fish.

At these times, it helps to repeat the mantra mentioned earlier, “This too, shall pass.” And it's highly probable that at some point, you'll be the one needing the care and attention. During this time of high stress, when your partner is suffering from depression, take some time to care for yourself. It can be draining to be the 80 in an 80/20 relationship.