Life and Family Stress

Dr. Patel
Healthy relationships can be a protective factor that buffers against stress. However, problems that develop in our relationships, sometimes called interpersonal problems, can be both a cause and a result of mental distress.

Dr. Jerman
For instance, a relationship problem may contribute to depression, but the reverse can be true as well -- depression rooted in some other cause may strain the relationship. Interpersonal problems can include relationship and family problems, work or school problems, and intimate partner or sexual issues.