From a wife's perspective- I have battled depression for about 13 years and here are a few things I can tell you about it.    1. Medication only "partially" works. If you have never taken anti-depressants / anti-anxiety meds (Zoloft, Wellbuterin, Cymbalta) it is hard to understand why someone refuses to take it. I felt like it deadened my spirit, it was almost impossible to cry even when a situation warranted it - like a death in the family. It also made great contributions to making me placid, but it comes with a price. Dry mouth, weight gain, etc.  2. Speaking of weight gain, body fat is a contributor to depression. If your partner is eating processed foods, over-eating, and doesn't exercise regularly, it is almost impossible to feel better. If you want to help your partner, encourage them to exercise. I have struggled with weight my whole life. It contributes to my depression. When I am doing cardio, lifting weights, and eating right - I am on top of the world. 3. A personal relationship with Jesus Christ was the foundation of my motivation to live and get out of bed in the morning.  4. Take it one day at a time with your partner. Sometimes relearning how to live, how to deal with negative thought patterns, how to feel and be better takes time to develop.    I hope that any of you dealing with a depressed loved one can find the way to joy and peace again.