Communication & Emotions
This is the common emotional reaction that can make someone snap or get frustrated faster during depression.
Irritability
The word for limits you set to protect your mental health and emotional space.
Boundaries
Depression often makes people do this to loved ones even when they don’t want to.
Pull away / isolate
This type of support feels encouraging and empathetic.
Supportive (or empathetic support)
These small actions (like brushing your teeth or doing one chore) help break the depression cycle.
Small tasks / micro-tasks / behavioral activation
The term for shutting down or withdrawing from conversations when overwhelmed
Emotional withdrawal / shutting down
True or False: It’s healthy to tell someone “I need space, but I’m not pulling away from you.”
True
The belief that you’re “too much” for people is called this type of mindset.
The burden mindset
When someone ignores your emotions or mocks your mental health, this behavior is called _______.
Emotional invalidation
Name one coping skill partners can use together to reconnect.
Examples: deep breathing together, a walk, a shared activity, grounding exercises, quiet time together
Name one way to communicate feelings when you don’t have much energy.
Short statements, texting feelings, using “feeling words,” writing it down, or using “I feel…” sentences
Saying “I can’t talk right now, but I’ll check in later” is an example of setting this.
A time boundary
When depression causes decreased motivation, household chores or responsibilities often feel like this.
Overwhelming
Name one characteristic of a healthy support system.
Examples: listening, trust, consistent support, respect, nonjudgment, reliability
A check-in conversation partners schedule regularly to share feelings is called a ______ check-in.
Emotional check-in
This communication style involves expressing needs clearly and respectfully.
Assertive communication
This term describes when someone takes on too much emotional responsibility for another person.
Emotional caretaking / taking on someone else’s emotions
Name one reason conflicts may increase during a depressive episode.
Examples: irritability, low patience, miscommunication, low energy, negative thinking
When someone repeatedly makes you question your reality or memory, it's called this.
Gaslighting
True or False: Spending time together in silence can still strengthen connection.
True
This type of thinking distortion makes people assume others are mad at them with no evidence.
Mind reading
Name one way to ask for support without feeling like a burden.
Examples: “Can you just sit with me?” “Can you check in later?” “I need reassurance today,” “I need help with one small thing,” etc.
This phrase describes when someone blames themselves for things outside their control.
Self-blame
The term for relationships that drain energy instead of adding to wellbeing.
Toxic relationships
This intentional practice helps you become aware of your emotions without judging them.
Mindfulness