Depression

Depression is an emotional state characterized by; a decrease in activities, extreme dejection, sadness, a feeling of worthlessness and loss of hope.

Normal or mild depression is usually the result of obvious recent stress and could be considered as part of the adjustment process. You may expect a normal or mild form of depression through grief and grieving process, loss of job, separation from a loved one, financial difficulties, home sickness, loneliness, or even the loss of a pet.

Major or severe depression is the result of the individuals inability to overcome the normal depressive episode. Characteristics are: prolonged extreme sadness, self depreciation, fatigue, loss of sleep or excessive sleeping, withdrawal, cessation of normal activities, inability to think patiently, feelings of guilt, often loss of appetite, preoccupation with death and suicide, feeling of rejection, helplessness, feeling worthless, low energy level, dwelling on the negative aspects of life, may become non verbal, lack of motivation, doubt, despair, discouragement, low self-esteem and carelessness.

With seriously depressed individuals (chronic depression, severe depression, suicidal tendencies), medical treatment is advised. It is important that you see a physician where medication may be prescribed or even hospitalization. The professional Christian Counselor will be of help and will recognize the need for such medical attention.

I have found through my experience and studies on the subject, that depression, in many instances, is the result of unfulfilled goals or unfulfilled expectations. Perhaps an unfulfilled expectation in a relationship with a friend or an unfulfilled expectation in your school work. The depressive episode could be brought on because of an incomplete project, or a desire to complete a goal. This could cause frustration and anxiety, which may result in depression. Also, discouragement is often a factor in an individual’s depressive state. A loss of control in a persons life and holding anger within oneself may bring on depression.

I suggest you deal with the cause, talk about the stressors with a close Christian friend or Christian Counselor. I encourage physical activities and activities with Christian groups. Support and support groups are important. Thought process therapy is helpful in learning coping skills. Your objective is to regain control of your life in Christ. Faith and trust in God and God’s Word is most important.

Once again, if you feel seriously depressed (chronic depression, severe depression, suicidal tendencies), seek medical treatment. The professional Christian Counselor will be of help and will recognize the need for such medical attention.

I Peter 4:12&13 "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy."

I Peter 5:6&7 "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting ALL your care upon him; for he careth for you."

Isaiah 43:2 "When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee."

Psalms 40:2 "He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings."

II Timothy 1:7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

Isaiah 50:7 "For the Lord God will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed."

Romans 8:28 "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

Romans 8:31 "What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?"