Adults only (18+)

Have I Fallen Out of Love or Am I Depressed? Understanding Your Feelings

When feelings in a relationship change, it can be confusing to determine whether you have fallen out of love or if you might be experiencing depression. Both situations can cause similar emotions such as sadness, lack of interest, or withdrawal, but they stem from very different causes and require different approaches to address.

How Falling Out of Love Feels

Falling out of love often involves a gradual loss of emotional connection and affection towards your partner. You may notice decreased interest in spending time together, reduced intimacy or feelings of indifference. This change can result from evolving personal needs, changes in the relationship dynamic or unmet expectations. While it can be painful, it is usually specific to the relationship rather than affecting all areas of your life.

Signs That It Might Be Depression

Depression, on the other hand, is a medical condition that affects your mood and overall functioning. It can cause pervasive feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue and loss of interest not only in your relationship but in many other activities you once enjoyed. Depression often brings difficulties with concentration, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite and feelings of worthlessness. These symptoms extend beyond the relationship and impact your day-to-day life.

Key Differences to Consider

One way to distinguish between the two is to reflect on how you feel outside the relationship. If you feel similarly disengaged or low in other areas such as work, hobbies or socialising, depression may be involved. If your feelings are mostly related to your partner or the relationship, it might indicate falling out of love. It’s also possible to experience both—a relationship can suffer when one or both partners are depressed.

What You Can Do

If you suspect you might be depressed, seeking support from a healthcare professional is important. Treatment like therapy or medication can help improve your mood and perspective. If you think you’ve fallen out of love, couples counselling or honest conversations with your partner can clarify feelings and explore next steps.

In Summary

Feeling uncertain about your emotions in a relationship is normal, but distinguishing between falling out of love and depression is key to finding the right support. Reflect on your overall mood, consider professional advice, and communicate openly with your partner to navigate this difficult time.