Help for Christians With Depression

Depression is epidemic in our culture today. This is no less true in the church than in the secular world. Remember that many of the psalms of King David are about his sorrows. Depression is not a sign of spiritual sickness, worldliness or otherwise related to sin. Depression is something that happens or a variety of reasons. Knowing the reason may not be necessary. Finding solace in your church and the Lord and getting back on your feet are far more important.

Seek Counselling

• Your pastor, worship leader or church counselor may have training in treating depression. Particularly if you're suffering from persistent low-level depression, this can be helpful. However, if your problem is deeper--chronic, clinical depression--they may not have the necessary training. Still, the spiritual shepherd of your church can refer you to a counselor who uses sound, Bible-based therapy.

Seek Fellowship

• Try not to be alone. Remember that you are part of the Body of Christ. The other believers in your church will want to support you during your time of need, just as you would want to support them. Spend as much time as you can with our fellow believers. Throw yourself into church fellowship activities. You don't necessarily need to talk about your depression. Just keeping busy will help.

Seek the Truth

• Meditate on the Word of God. In times of trouble, few things provide solace more than the Bible. Your depression is real. However, remember that God's word is full of stories of those with deep heartache. Seek comfort in the Book of Job or the psalms. Fill yourself with spiritual nourishment.

Practice Patience

• The Lord's miracles work in his time, nor ours. Remember that God will lift your burden. But you have to be patient. Practice patient prayer while undergoing therapy or counseling. This is also the perfect time to purge any ungodly behaviors. Turn toward the Lord. Don't expect instant results, but always remember that God will heal you.

Medication

• Don't rule out medication out of hand. While anti-depression medications work on the mind, they are still medication and not recreational drugs. Taking medication for depression (if needed) is no different than taking medication for any other illness. Medication is not a substitute for addressing the underlying problem. Using medication may be temporary or long term. But nothing in the Bible rules out medication designed to make you well again.