Defining Depression

Depression. It’s become a buzz word in society; however, it’s very real. Fighting depression is challenging because that’s exactly what you don’t feel like doing—fighting. It causes you to lose your purpose, drive, identity, and feel like you’re fading away. Depression can be scary, and it’s especially hard to fight alone. 
Defining Depression

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes you may feel as if life isn't worth living.” 

Depression is far more common than we realize. There is no need to feel embarrassed or shameful if you are struggling. It is estimated that 16.2 million adults (6.7%) in the United States struggle with depression. It manifests differently in all people. Some individuals experience textbook symptoms and it is easy to diagnose while others can hide their depression from family and friends but secretly be tormented and miserable. Even the psalmist wrote:

How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?
—Psalm 13:2 (NIV)

Causes of Depression

Currently, research has found no direct link to what causes depression. Every person will respond differently to situations; and while there are things that make an individual more likely to experience depression, researchers have yet to find a direct cause. 

Nevertheless, there are circumstances that put an individual at a higher risk for experiencing depression. These include:

  • Abuse 
  • Certain medications 
  • Conflict 
  • Death or loss of a loved one 
  • Genetics 
  • Major events 
  • Other personal problems 
  • Serious illnesses 
  • Substance abuse 

Symptoms of Depression

  • Feeling sad 
  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities 
  • Weight loss or gain 
  • Insomnia or sleeping all the time 
  • Increased fatigue 
  • Feeling worthless 
  • Feeling life is meaningless 

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
—Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

Treatment

Treatments for depression include medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). There are also natural remedies to try that have been proven to reduce depression. 

Medications include antidepressants to modify an individual’s brain chemistry. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) consists of meeting with a professional and discussing the situation. The patient then works with the professional to develop problem-solving skills in order to disprove the lies depression is telling them. Electroconvulsive therapy is used for patients with severe depression who have not progressed with other treatments. ECT requires a patient to go under anesthesia and then receive a treatment to stimulate the brain. 

Depression has been proven to be reduced by exercise. Exercise releases endorphins in the brain which promote mental health. Additionally, consistently getting quality sleep and eating a healthy diet can decrease depression. People who struggle with depression should also avoid depressants such as alcohol, which can aggravate the symptoms. 

Quiet your heart in his presence and pray; keep hope alive as you long for God to come through for you. And don’t think for a moment that the wicked in their prosperity are better off than you.
—Psalm 37:7 (TPT)

Anxiety and Depression

Depression is often confused with anxiety. While the two are similar, they are not the same thing. Anxiety is defined by the Mayo Clinic as frequently having, “intense, excessive and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations.” Similar to depression, anxiety can manifest differently in all people. There are several different types of anxiety, but the most common include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and social anxiety.

Symptoms of anxiety include:

  • Feeling nervous, restless, or tense
  • Increased heart rate
  • Hyperventilation
  • Sweating
  • Feeling weak or tired
  • Insomnia
  • Difficulty concentrating

Brock and Lindsay Walden’s Story

As Lindsay struggled with postpartum depression, the Waldens knew it was time to truly get connected at Faith Life Church. Through the Kingdom Track, they gained an understanding of their personalities and discovered their spiritual giftings. Listen as they share what the power of connection did for their lives as well as what it can do for yours! Check out the full story HERE.

Conquering Depression

At Faith Life Church, many people have been set free from depression. We believe it is God’s will for you to be healed. Depression affects every area of your life and hinders you from enjoying life. Jesus came to set us free and wants us to live freely, joyfully, and for Him. The Bible says,
 
A thief has only one thing in mind—he wants to steal, slaughter, and destroy. But I have come to give you everything in abundance, more than you expect—life in its fullness until you overflow!
—John 10:10 (TPT)

Satan wants you to live in bondage, but God wants you to live the GOOD LIFE! Depression is not God’s will for anyone. God is not the author of suffering. God is not mad at you, and He is not trying to teach you a lesson by causing any sort of illness.

If you are currently suffering from depression, there is HOPE! Jesus loves each of us more than we can fathom! Please reach out to someone if you are struggling. Reach out to a friend or loved one, and let them know what you are dealing with. Talking about it with someone can help to debunk some of the lies depression feeds us, and it provides encouragement and support for us. You don’t have to fight depression alone; and there are lots of resources to help you fight through. It does not need to be your everyday reality. Life will have its ups and downs, but you can be set free and find joy in everyday life. 

O Lord, my healing God, I cried out for a miracle and you healed me!
—Psalm 30:2 (TPT)

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