Overcoming DepressionSýnishorn

Naming Depression

Depression is a consistent feeling of mild to intense sadness, often accompanied by a lack of interest in daily activities. For some, depression shows up as a loss of energy or appetite, or as feelings of apathy or being overwhelmed. For others, it can show up as feeling completely worthless, hopeless, or wanting to die.

In my life, depression has shown up for years. It’s gotten better and even goes away completely at times. Yet it still can show up through feeling hopeless about situations in my life. It can show up through feeling sad about who I am, my abilities, and how I perform at my job.

If you’re struggling with depression, know that you are not the only one. One-third of Americans report symptoms of depression. Among youth, specifically, 70 percent of teens say anxiety and depression are major issues among their peers.

Depression can be something that we don’t like to talk about as Christians. Yet God doesn’t want us to shy away from these issues or from getting help. I am so thankful that God cares and understands our struggles in life. He cares so much that He intentionally guided the authors of the Bible to write about depression thousands of years ago.

Struggling with depression does not mean we lack faith in Jesus or have something wrong with us. In fact, some of the godliest people in the Bible seemed to deal with depression. The prophet Jeremiah faced depression. In Jeremiah 15:10, he said, “I am so miserable! Why did my mother give birth to me?” Job asked almost the same thing after losing his health, wealth, and his entire family. He said, “Why did I not die at birth?” and “Now my life seeps away. Depression haunts my days” (Job 3:11, 30:16).

God cares about how you feel. Did you know that He keeps track of every one of your tears? If you are struggling today, know that being honest about your feelings is the first step forward. Things can get better. Jesus wants you to experience hope and healing.

Jesus, You know the struggles and sorrows I face each day. Help me.