Find Freedom from Despair – Part 2

Seven things to do to ease despair when nothing seems to help:

1. I can be grateful

Evidence-based research links gratitude with improved emotional, physical and relationship health. The gratitude referred to in 1 Thessalonians 5 helps relish good experiences, feel more positive, boost life satisfaction and energy levels, deal with adversity, and be more social and forgiving. It is linked to a stronger immune system, lower blood pressure, fewer aches and improved sleep!

2. I can care for my physical health 

You can pray for the feelings to go away, but God wants you to care for your physical as well as spiritual health. Research shows healthy diet, exercise, going outside and getting enough sleep (but not oversleeping) are practical steps to finding freedom from depression.

3. I can set daily achievable goals

We can think, ‘When I feel right, then I’ll do right’, but motivation often comes after we act. Setting achievable goals and doing them gives a sense of accomplishment. For some, getting out of bed or washing clothes is a big activity. Plan and do at least one achievement and one pleasant activity daily whether you feel like it or not. 

4. I can surround myself with good people 

Lack of social support contributes to depression. On the flip side, family, friends or colleagues showing care can lift you. Church communities offer a great sense of family (Ecclesiastes 4).

5. I can manage my thinking 

David admits his feelings but chooses new thoughts (Psalm 44). Dr Carolyn Leaf says, ‘When you objectively observe your own thinking with the view to capturing rogue thoughts, you in effect direct your attention to stop the negative impact and rewire healthy new circuits into your brain.’  

6. I can look for purpose in hardship

You might see God has a purpose in your season. Paul was in chains when he wrote Philippians 1. 

7. I can accept circumstances and cultivate hope

It doesn’t help denying you’re in despair or depression, but admitting it and cultivating hope does. Faith in Jesus is not denying the facts. He willingly entered into a broken world, went to the Cross and, as the midday sun turned dark, cried, “My God, why have you forsaken me?” We can reach out to a God who understands living in a broken world, went to the Cross, conquered death and offers eternal life beyond suffering. Our hope does not deny facts, it transcends them.