depression

[jennypenny]

what is depression? why do christians get depressed? how do you fight depression?

and angst! where does it come from and how do you get rid of it? any clever thoughts or biblical advice?

much love in Christ,
jenny

 

[pegatha]

"Depression" can mean different things. Sometimes it just means a temporary case of sadness or the blues. In its worst form, it's a chemical imbalance in the brain, caused by severe or prolonged stress or by heredity. Christians experience depression for the same reason other people experience it. You may have heard other Christians say that depression is a sin, because we're told always to rejoice in the Lord. I think that advice is a misuse of Scripture that only makes the depressed person feel guiltier and more depressed.

If you're depressed because of a specific situation, it may help to get some good advice from a trustworthy source, like your pastor, a parent, a teacher, or (in some cases) a hotline dedicated to the type of problem you're experiencing.

If your depression is severe or long-lasting, you should probably see a physician. Sometimes it takes medicine and/or therapy to overcome depression. You should also be careful about eating a good diet and getting enough exercise, because poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle can aggravate symptoms of depression.

 

[2Bhumble]

I've suffered a bit from it my self along with anger. Nothing severe but bad enough to be noticeable. I used to think "how can a Christian get depression?" Well, why do Christians have diabetes or a bad back? Depression is an ailment that people in a fallen world get. My doctor advises exercise, sleep, good nutrition etc. which has helped. Thank the Lord it's under control for the most part. I went to Christian counseling and was told it was caused by childhood issues - again, a result of a fallen world.

 

[Kristi1]

what is depression? why do christians get depressed? how do you fight depression?

and angst! where does it come from and how do you get rid of it? any clever thoughts or biblical advice?

much love in Christ,
jenny

Hiya Jenny


Warm Welcome to CF!!


I am monitered by my doctor and therapist because I take 200mg of Zoloft a day with my pain medication. I take this because I am Severely Disabled..

This is From my Website about Depression;

I know this is a touchy subject for some people. I am sorry about that to.

I belong to the Baptist Board and there is someone there and they keep saying this~> "Depression is a Sin!" I don't agree with this at all!!

Depression, at which I suffer from, is a Chemical Imblance in the Brain. Certain life’s issues can trigger the Depression in people.

I would like to know other's thought's on Depression.

• 
  [*]Do you think it's a Sin to be Depressed?
  
  [*]Why do you think this way?
  
  [*]How did you come to the conclusion to your decisions?
  
  [*]Do you really think God can Help a Depressed Person?
  
  [*]Is there Help for the Depressed?
  
  [*]Do you believe in Chemical Imbalances?
  
  [*]Is it Okay for a Christian to have Chemical Imbalances?
  
  [*]Do you think Christian's are Wrong for being Depressed?
  
  

This is an unscientific thread to help find answers to depressions.

Remember God Loves You!

Blessings, \o/

KristiAnn
MsGuidedAngel

*This Thread is for Everyone whom suffers from Depression, Heataches, and Troubles!!

More..


Depression, a mental illness in which a person experiences deep, unshakable sadness and diminished interest in nearly all activities.
People also use the term depression to describe the temporary sadness, loneliness, or blues that everyone feels from time to time. In
contrast to normal sadness, severe depression, also called major depression, can dramatically impair a person's ability to function in
social situations and at work. People with major depression often have feelings of despair, hopelessness, and worthlessness, as well
as thoughts of committing suicide.

• Depression can take several other forms. In Bipolar Disorder, sometimes called manic-depressive illness, a person's mood swings back and
  forth between depression and mania. People with seasonal affective disorder typically suffer from depression only during autumn and winter,
  when there are fewer hours of daylight. In dysthymia (pronounced dis-THI-mee-uh), people feel depressed, have low self-esteem, and
  concentrate poorly most of the time-often for a period of years-but their symptoms are milder than in major depression. Some people with
  dysthymia experience occasional episodes of major depression. Mental health professionals use the term clinical depression to refer to any of
  the above forms of depression.
  
• Surveys indicate that people commonly view depression as a sign of personal weakness, but psychiatrists and psychologists view it as a real
  illness. In the United States, the National Institute of Mental Health has estimated that depression costs society many billions of dollars each
  year, mostly in lost work time.

PREVALENCE

• Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses. At least 8 percent of adults in the United States experience serious depression at
  some point during their lives, and estimates range as high as 17 percent. The illness affects all people, regardless of sex, race, ethnicity, or
  socioeconomic standing. However, women are two to three times more likely than men to suffer from depression. Experts disagree on the
  reason for this difference. Some cite differences in hormones, and others point to the stress caused by society's expectations of women.
  
• Depression occurs in all parts of the world, although the pattern of symptoms can vary. The prevalence of depression in other countries
  varies widely, from 1.5 percent of people in Taiwan to 19 percent of people in Lebanon. Some researchers believe methods of gathering data
  on depression account for different rates.
  A number of large-scale studies indicate that depression rates have increased worldwide over the past several decades. Furthermore,
  younger generations are experiencing depression at an earlier age than did previous generations. Social scientists have proposed many
  explanations, including changes in family structure, urbanization, and reduced cultural and religious influences.

SYMPTOMS

• Although it may appear anytime from childhood to old age, depression usually begins during a person's 20s or 30s. The illness may come on
  slowly, then deepen gradually over months or years. On the other hand, it may erupt suddenly in a few weeks or days. A person who
  develops severe depression may appear so confused, frightened, and unbalanced that observers speak of a "nervous breakdown." However
  it begins, depression causes serious changes in a person's feelings and outlook. A person with major depression feels sad nearly every day
  and may cry often. People, work, and activities that used to bring them pleasure no longer do.
  
• Symptoms of depression can vary by age. In younger children, depression may include physical complaints, such as stomachaches and
  headaches, as well as irritability, "moping around," social withdrawal, and changes in eating habits. They may feel unenthusiastic about
  school and other activities. In adolescents, common symptoms include sad mood, sleep disturbances, and lack of energy. Elderly people with
  depression usually complain of physical rather than emotional problems, which sometimes leads doctors to misdiagnose the illness.
  
• Symptoms of depression can also vary by culture. In some cultures, depressed people may not experience sadness or guilt but may complain
  of physical problems. In Mediterranean cultures, for example, depressed people may complain of headaches or nerves. In Asian cultures they
  may complain of weakness, fatigue, or imbalance.
  If left untreated, an episode of major depression typically lasts eight or nine months. About 85 percent of people who experience one bout of
  depression will experience future episodes.
  
• A) Appetite and Sleep Changes
  Depression usually alters a person's appetite, sometimes increasing it, but usually reducing it. Sleep habits often change as well. People with
  depression may oversleep or, more commonly, sleep for fewer hours. A depressed person might go to sleep at midnight, sleep restlessly,
  then wake up at 5 AM feeling tired and blue. For many depressed people, early morning is the saddest time of the day.
  
• B) Changes in Energy Level
  Depression also changes one's energy level. Some depressed people may be restless and agitated, engaging in fidgety movements and
  pacing. Others may feel sluggish and inactive, experiencing great fatigue, lack of energy, and a feeling of being worn out or carrying a heavy
  burden. Depressed people may also have difficulty thinking, poor concentration, and problems with memory.
  
• C) Poor Self-Esteem
  People with depression often experience feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, guilt, and self-blame. They may interpret a minor failing on
  their part as a sign of incompetence or interpret minor criticism as condemnation. Some depressed people complain of being spiritually or
  morally dead. The mirror seems to reflect someone ugly and repulsive. Even a competent and decent person may feel deficient, cruel, stupid,
  phony, or guilty of having deceived others. People with major depression may experience such extreme emotional pain that they consider or
  attempt suicide. At least 15 percent of seriously depressed people commit suicide, and many more attempt it.
  DPsychotic Symptoms In some cases, people with depression may experience psychotic symptoms, such as delusions (false beliefs) and
  hallucinations (false sensory perceptions). Psychotic symptoms indicate an especially severe illness. Compared to other depressed people,
  those with psychotic symptoms have longer hospital stays, and after leaving, they are more likely to be moody and unhappy. They are also
  more likely to commit suicide.

CAUSES

• Some depressions seem to come out of the blue, even when things are going well. Others seem to have an obvious cause: a marital conflict,
  financial difficulty, or some personal failure. Yet many people with these problems do not become deeply depressed. Most psychologists
  believe depression results from an interaction between stressful life events and a person's biological and psychological vulnerabilities.
  
• A) Biological Factors
  Depression runs in families. By studying twins, researchers have found evidence of a strong genetic influence in depression. Genetically
  identical twins raised in the same environment are three times more likely to have depression in common than fraternal twins, who have only
  about half of their genes in common. In addition, identical twins are five times more likely to have bipolar disorder in common. These findings
  suggest that vulnerability to depression and bipolar disorder can be inherited. Adoption studies have provided more evidence of a genetic
  role in depression. These studies show that children of depressed people are vulnerable to depression even when raised by adoptive
  parents.
  
• Genes may influence depression by causing abnormal activity in the brain. Studies have shown that certain brain chemicals called
  neurotransmitters play an important role in regulating moods and emotions. Neurotransmitters involved in depression include
  norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. Research in the 1960s suggested that depression results from lower than normal levels of these
  neurotransmitters in parts of the brain. Support for this theory came from the effects of antidepressant drugs, which work by increasing the
  levels of neurotransmitters involved in depression. However, later studies have discredited this simple explanation and have suggested a
  more complex relationship between neurotransmitter levels and depression.
  An imbalance of hormones may also play a role in depression. Many depressed people have higher than normal levels of hydrocortisone
  (cortisol), a hormone secreted by the adrenal gland in response to stress. In addition, an underactive or overactive thyroid gland can lead to
  depression.

Continued Below!​

 

[Kristi1]

• A variety of medical conditions can cause depression. These include dietary deficiences in vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folic acid (see Vitamin);
  degenerative neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease (see Chorea); strokes in the frontal part of the
  brain; and certain viral infections, such as hepatitis and mononucleosis. Certain medications, such as steroids, may also cause depression.
  
• B) Psychological Factors
  Psychological theories of depression focus on the way people think and behave. In a 1917 essay, Austrian psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud
  explained melancholia, or major depression, as a response to loss-either real loss, such as the death of a spouse, or symbolic loss, such as
  the failure to achieve an important goal. Freud believed that a person's unconscious anger over loss weakens the ego, resulting in self-hate
  and self-destructive behavior.
  
• Cognitive theories of depression emphasize the role of irrational thought processes. American psychiatrist Aaron Beck proposed that
  depressed people tend to view themselves, their environment, and the future in a negative light because of errors in thinking. These errors
  include focusing on the negative aspects of any situation, misinterpreting facts in negative ways, and blaming themselves for any misfortune.
  In Beck's view, people learn these self-defeating ways of looking at the world during early childhood. This negative thinking makes situations
  seem much worse than they really are and increases the risk of depression, especially in stressful situations.
  In support of this cognitive view, people with "depressive"personality traits appear to be more vulnerable than others to actual depression.
  Examples of depressive personality traits include gloominess, pessimism, introversion, self-criticism, excessive skepticism and criticism of
  others, deep feelings of inadequacy, and excessive brooding and worrying. In addition, people who regularly behave in dependent, hostile,
  and impulsive ways appear at greater risk for depression.
  
• American psychologist Martin Seligman proposed that depression stems from "learned helplessness," an acquired belief that one cannot
  control the outcome of events. In this view, prolonged exposure to uncontrollable and inescapable events leads to apathy, pessimism, and
  loss of motivation. An adaptation of this theory by American psychologist Lynn Abramson and her colleagues argues that depression results
  not only from helplessness, but also from hopelessness. The hopelessness theory attributes depression to a pattern of negative thinking in
  which people blame themselves for negative life events, view the causes of those events as permanent, and overgeneralize specific
  weaknesses as applying to many areas of their life.
  
• C) Stressful Events
  Psychologists agree that stressful experiences can trigger depression in people who are predisposed to the illness. For example, the death
  of a loved one may trigger depression. Psychologists usually distinguish true depression from grief, a normal process of mourning a loved
  one who has died. Other stressful experiences may include divorce, pregnancy, the loss of a job, and even childbirth. About 20% of women
  experience an episode of depression, known as postpartum depression, after having a baby. In addition, people with serious physical
  illnesses or disabilities often develop depression.
  
• People who experience child abuse appear more vulnerable to depression than others. So, too, do people living under chronically stressful
  conditions, such as single mothers with many children and little or no support from friends or relatives.

TREATMENT

• Depression typically cannot be shaken or willed away. An episode must therefore run its course until it weakens either on its own or with
  treatment. Depression can be treated effectively with antidepressant drugs, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.
  Despite the availability of effective treatment, most depressive disorders go untreated and undiagnosed. Studies indicate that general
  physicians fail to recognize depression in their patients at least half of the time. In addition, many doctors and patients view depression in
  elderly people as a normal part of aging, even though treatment for depression in older people is usually very effective.
  
• A) Antidepressant Drugs
  Up to 70% of people with depression respond to antidepressant drugs. These medications appear to work by altering the levels of
  serotonin, norepinephrine, and other neurotransmitters in the brain. They generally take at least two to three weeks to become effective.
  Doctors cannot predict which type of antidepressant drug will work best for any particular person, so depressed people may need to try
  several types. Antidepressant drugs are not addictive, but they may produce unwanted side effects. To avoid relapse, people usually must
  continue taking the medication for several months after their symptoms improve.
  
• Commonly used antidepressant drugs fall into three major classes: tricyclics, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO inhibitors), and selective
  serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Tricyclics, named for their three-ring chemical structure, include amitriptyline (Elavil), imipramine
  (Tofanil), desipramine (Norpramin), doxepin (Sinequan), and nortriptyline (Pamelor). Side effects of tricyclics may include drowsiness,
  dizziness upon standing, blurred vision, nausea, insomnia, constipation, and dry mouth.
  MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), and tranylcypromine (Parmate). People who take MAO inhibitors must
  follow a diet that excludes tyramine-a substance found in wine, beer, some cheeses, and many fermented foods-to avoid a dangerous rise in
  blood pressure. In addition, MAO inhibitors have many of the same side effects as tricyclics.
  
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and paroxetine (Paxil). These drugs generally produce
  fewer and milder side effects than do other types of antidepressants, although SSRIs may cause anxiety, insomnia, drowsiness, headaches,
  and sexual dysfunction. Some patients have alleged that Prozac causes violent or suicidal behavior in a small number of cases, but the U.S.
  Food and Drug Administration has failed to substantiate this claim.
  
• Prozac became the most widely used antidepressant in the world soon after its introduction in the late 1980s by drug manufacturer Eli Lilly
  and Company. Many people find Prozac extremely effective in lifting depression. In addition, some people have reported that Prozac actually
  tranforms their personality by increasing their self-confidence, optimism, and energy level. However, mental health professionals have
  expressed serious ethical concerns over Prozac's use as a "personality enhancer," especially among people without clinical depression.
  
• Doctors often prescribe lithium carbonate, a natural mineral salt, to treat people with bipolar disorder (see Lithium). People often take lithium
  during periods of relatively normal mood to delay or even prevent subsequent mood swings. Side effects of lithium include nausea, stomach
  upset, vertigo, and frequent urination.
  
• B) Psychotherapy
  Studies have shown that short-term psychotherapy can relieve mild to moderate depression as effectively as antidepressant drugs. Unlike
  medication, psychotherapy produces no physiological side effects. In addition, depressed people treated with psychotherapy appear less
  likely to experience a relapse than those treated only with antidepressant medication. However, psychotherapy usually takes longer to
  produce benefits.
  
• There are many kinds of psychotherapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy assumes that depression stems from negative, often irrational thinking
  about oneself and one's future. In this type of therapy, a person learns to understand and eventually eliminate those habits of negative
  thinking. In interpersonal therapy, the therapist helps a person resolve problems in relationships with others that may have caused the
  depression. The subsequent improvement in social relationships and support helps alleviate the depression. Psychodynamic therapy views
  depression as the result of internal, unconscious conflicts. Psychodynamic therapists focus on a person's past experiences and the resolution
  of childhood conflicts. Psychoanalysis is an example of this type of therapy. Critics of long-term psychodynamic therapy argue that its
  effectiveness is scientifically unproven.
  
• C) Other Treatments
  Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can often relieve severe depression in people who fail to respond to antidepressant medication and
  psychotherapy. In this type of therapy, a low-voltage electric current is passed through the brain for one to two seconds to produce a
  controlled seizure. Patients usually receive six to ten ECT treatments over several weeks. ECT remains controversial because it can cause
  disorientation and memory loss. Nevertheless, research has found it highly effective in alleviating severe depression.
  
• For milder cases of depression, regular aerobic exercise may improve mood as effectively as psychotherapy or medication. In addition, some
  research indicates that dietary modifications can influence one's mood by changing the level of serotonin in the brain.

[c]More below...[/c]

 

[Kristi1]

More on Depression

Definition

Depression is a medical disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, pessimism, and a general loss of interest in life, combined with a sense of reduced emotional well-being.

Description

The three (3) most common types of depression are major depression, dysthymia and bipolar disease:

• Major depression is manifested by a combination of symptoms (see Symptoms below) that interfere with the ability to work, sleep, eat and enjoy once pleasurable activities. These symptoms occur without any apparent cause and deepen and persist day-in and day-out for two weeks or longer.
• Dysthymia is marked by mild to moderate depressive symptoms that last at least two years. People with this condition have fewer symptoms than those with major depression, but the symptoms last longer and develop more slowly. On average, symptoms can last 16 years before there is a diagnosis. Sometimes people with dysthymia also experience major depressive episodes.
• Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic-depressive illness, involves cycles of depression and elation (mania). Sometimes the mood switches are dramatic and rapid, but most often they are gradual. When in the depressed cycle, a person can have any or all of the symptoms of depression. When in the manic cycle, any or all manic symptoms (see Symptoms below) may be experienced.

Causes

Depression is caused by a combination of genetic (inherited), psychological and environmental factors. Depression, especially bipolar disorder, has been shown to run in families. Additionally, having too little or too much of certain neurochemicals in the brain have shown to be the cause of depression. The psychological makeup of a person, such as low self-esteem, pessimism and stress, can also cause depression. Environmental or other associated health factors, such as a serious loss, chronic illness, pregnancy, childbirth, difficult relationships, financial problems, unwelcome changes in life patterns, alcohol, drug abuse and medications can also trigger a depressive episode. About 10 to 15 percent of all depression is caused by medical illness or medicine. Once these conditions are treated or the medication stopped or changed, the depression will usually go away.

Symptoms

The symptoms of depression include:

• loss of interest in the things that the person once enjoyed
• feeling sad, blue, or down in the dumps
• feeling slowed down or restless and unable to sit still
• feeling worthless or guilty
• an increase or decrease in appetite or weight
• thoughts of death or suicide
• problems concentrating, thinking, remembering or making decisions
• trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• loss of energy or feeling tired all of the time
• headaches
• digestive problems
• sexual problems
• feeling pessimistic or hopeless
• being anxious or worried

The symptoms of mania are:

• feeling unusually "high," euphoric or irritable
• severe insomnia
• grandiose notions
• increased talking
• disconnected and racing thoughts
• increased sexual desire
• markedly increased energy
• poor judgment
• inappropriate social behavior

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of depression involves a psychological/physical history and evaluation. According to the American Psychiatric Association, if a person experiences a loss of interest in the things they once enjoyed and are feeling sad, blue, or down in the dumps for at least two (2) weeks, and are experiencing at least five (5) of the other symptoms of depression, they may have major depression. If a person experiences euphoria, irritability, or a feeling of being "high" with four (4) other symptoms of mania for at least one (1) week, they may have bipolar disorder. In addition to listing the symptoms, the doctor will also ask when the symptoms began, how long they have lasted, how severe they are, whether the individual has had them before, and if so, whether or not they were treated and what treatment was received, as well as whether or not other family members have had these symptoms. Furthermore, a mental status examination will be done to determine if speech, thought patterns or memory have been affected. The physical examination will either diagnosis and/or rule out any medical conditions (such as thyroid disease, cancers or neurologic diseases) that could be causing the depression.

Treatment

Treatment usually involves medication, psychotherapy or a combination of both. Other treatments may include electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), light therapy and alternative treatments. Medication There are more than 20 antidepressant drugs currently available. Antidepressants correct the chemical imbalance in the brain. Because a variety of drugs target different neurotransmitters and imbalances of these neurotransmitters can vary from patient to patient, some drugs may be more effective than others for any individual. Sometimes a combination of drugs is best. There are four (4) groups of antidepressant medications most commonly used to treat depression:

• Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) which include Elavil, Janimine, Tofranil, Pamelor, and Norpramin. TCAs work by slowing the rate at which neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) re-enter brain cells. This increases the concentration of the neurotransmitters in the central nervous system which relieves depression.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) include Nardil and Parnate. MAO is an enzyme responsible for breaking down certain neurotransmitters in the brain. MAOIs inhibit this enzyme and restore more normal mood states.
• Lithium carbonates, including Eskalith and Lithobid. Lithium reduces excessive nerve activity in the brain by altering the chemical balance within certain nerve cells. This drug is effective is treating bipolar disorder.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) include Prozac, Zoloft and Paxil. SSRIs act specifically on serotonin, making it more available for nerve cells, thus easing the transmission of messages without disrupting the chemistry of the brain.

Medication usually produces a marked improvement by six weeks, but may require up to 12 weeks for full effect. Psychotherapy Psychotherapy involves talking to family doctor, counselor or therapist about things that are occurring in a person's life. The aim of psychotherapy is to remove all symptoms of depression and return a person to a normal life. There are three psychotherapies available to treat depression: behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy or interpersonal therapy. Behavioral therapy focuses on current behaviors, cognitive therapy focuses on thoughts and thinking patterns, and interpersonal therapy focuses on current relationships. Although psychotherapy may begin to work right away, it may take eight to 10 weeks to show a full effect for some people. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) ECT, also called electroshock treatment, is used for severely depressed patients and/or those who have not responded to antidepressant medication and/or psychotherapy. During this therapy, an electric current travels through electrodes placed on the temples, causing a generalized shock that produces biochemical changes in the brain. Light Therapy In light therapy, a special kind of light called a broad-spectrum light, is used to give people the effect of having a few extra hours of daylight each day. Light therapy is helpful in treating people with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a serious depression that recurs each year at the same time, starting in fall or winter and ending in spring. Helpful Tips During the treatment process try these helpful tips:

• Do not set difficult goals or take on a great deal of responsibility.
• Break large tasks into small ones, set priorities, and do what you can.
• Try to be with other people.
• Participate in activities that make you feel better.
• Do not overdo it or become upset if the treatment does not work right away.
• Do not make major life decisions.
• Do not expect to snap out of depression.
• Do not expect too much of the depressed person.

Alternative

Light therapy, acupuncture, herbal remedies (such as St. John's Wort), exercise, mediation and fasting are shown to help people lessen or eliminate symptoms associated with depression.

Questions

Has a complete diagnostic evaluation been given? What type of depression is it? What kind of treatment should be used or sought? Would an antidepressant medication be prescribed? If so, what are the side effects? After treatment is started, how long will it take before there is an improvement? Is the depression likely to return? If the depression is due to a serious loss, how long is the depression going to last? What measures can be taken to help the process? Where can the family get help to cope with this disorder or get more information?

____________________________________________________​

I KristiAnn AKA MsGuidedAngel Suffers from Chronic Major Depression. Depression seems to run in my family. My mother had Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) called electroshock treatment in the early 1970s for many Nervous Breakdowns from since I was a baby. My late daddy drank beer and other alcoholic beverages to run from his depression. So, Please before anyone passes Judgement on me about my depression, please be sympathetic Towards me and my family. It hurt me to see my mother go through electroshock treatment a lot!!



KristiAnn
MsGuidedAngel

 

[SeekAnd]

One of the most common illnesses to have plagued mankind is depression. It has resulted in broken families, loss of productivity in the workplace, and addictive behavior, among other problems. Those who suffer from depression often feel a sense of hopelessness and despair. Why?

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) states, “In any given 1-year period, 9.5 percent of the population, or about 18.8 million American adults, suffer from a depressive illness. The economic cost for this disorder is high, but the cost in human suffering cannot be estimated. Depressive illnesses often interfere with normal functioning and cause pain and suffering not only to those who have a disorder, but also to those who care about them. Serious depression can destroy family life as well as the life of the ill person. But much of this suffering is unnecessary.”

“Most people with a depressive illness do not seek treatment…” (www.nimh.nih.gov).

The above article goes on to describe different treatments that are common in today's society. But do any of these treatments actually help? Or are they merely treating the effects of depression without addressing the cause?

What Is Depression?
​

Depression is a psychological (mental/emotional) disorder, which involves the moods and thoughts of a person. There are different levels of severity, ranging from mild (feeling down after a mild disappointment) to severe (a lifelong debilitating illness, which can totally cripple a person).

Depression can affect several different areas of one's life, including sleeping and eating habits, resulting in peripheral problems associated with improper diets and irregular sleep. It can also lead to the abuse of alcohol and the use of mind-altering drugs, persistent sadness, anxiety, feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, guilt, helplessness and worthlessness. There may be a loss of interest and pleasure in hobbies and activities. Many experience decreased energy, increased fatigue, difficulty remembering, concentrating or making decisions, restlessness and irritability. Some even suffer from persistent headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain.

These symptoms can eventually lead to the loss of employment, family and friends. But often, severe depression leads to thoughts of suicide. Feeling that he has come to the lowest point in his life, a person can conclude, “All is lost” and “Life is not worth living anymore.”

Most Everyone Affected
​

Depression is a universal problem, plaguing every human being at some point or another in life. Occasionally, everyone has a “blue” day. Feeling slightly discouraged about certain circumstances is normal in today's society. It can be a response to a minor setback, the loss of a loved one or the loss of a job. Whatever the situation, most people will address the effect of their depression and not the CAUSE.

According to the NIMH, “Women experience depression about twice as often as men. Many hormonal factors may contribute to the increased rate of depression in women—particularly such factors as menstrual cycle changes, pregnancy, miscarriage, postpartum period, pre-menopause, and menopause. Many women also face additional stresses such as responsibilities both at work and home, single parenthood, and caring for children and for aging parents.”

The NIMH further states, “Although men are less likely to suffer from depression than women, 3 to 4 million men in the United States are affected by the illness. Men are less likely to admit to depression, and doctors are less likely to suspect it. The rate of suicide in men is four times that of women, though more women attempt it. In fact, after age 70, the rate of men's suicide rises, reaching a peak after age 85.”

“Depression can also affect the physical health in men differently from women. A new study shows that, although depression is associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease in both men and women, only men suffer a high death rate.”

Even children can suffer from depression. A child's life should be without worries—carefree. But this is not the case in today's society. With divorces increasing, rising peer pressure at school, etc., what appeared years ago as the carefree child's life is no more.

“Only in the past two decades has depression in children been taken very seriously. The depressed child may pretend to be sick, refuse to go to school, cling to a parent, or worry that the parent may die. Older children may sulk, get into trouble at school, be negative, grouchy, and feel misunderstood. Because normal behaviors vary from one childhood stage to another, it can be difficult to tell whether a child is just going through a temporary ‘phase' or is suffering from depression” (Ibid.).

How can one break free from the bonds of depression? Is there any hope?

Hiding the Causes by Masking the Effects
​

As mentioned earlier, society treats the effects of depression in several different ways. The most common is through medication. Dozens of drugs are prescribed to those who need a “quick fix.” Often, as with so many others, these drugs cause side effects, for which are then prescribed other drugs to cover the side effects of those drugs—and the endless cycle continues.

Some drugs have such adverse side effects that they are blamed for even more bizarre behavior than that for which they were prescribed!

Biblical Examples of Depression
​

Depression has a very long history. The Bible records examples of extraordinary men who suffered bouts of depression. For example, carefully consider the following four men through whom God worked in Old Testament times.

Job was a perfect and upright man. After going through a series of trials, he asked God to take his life. Notice: “But Job answered and said, Oh that my grief were thoroughly weighed, and my calamity laid in the balances together! For now it would be heavier than the sand of the sea: therefore my words are swallowed up…Oh that I might have my request; and that God would grant me the thing that I long for! Even that it would please God to destroy me; that He would let loose His hand, and cut me off! Then should I yet have comfort; yea, I would harden myself in sorrow: let him not spare; for I have not concealed the words of the Holy One” (Job 6:1-3, 8-10).

Moses also experienced feelings of depression. When the people of Israel were constantly complaining about the manna, and wanted meat to eat, he said to God, “Wherefore have you afflicted Your servant? And wherefore have I not found favor in Your sight, that You lay the burden of all this people upon me? Have I conceived all this people? Have I begotten them, that You should say unto me, Carry them in your bosom, as a nursing father bears the sucking child, unto the land which You swore unto their fathers? Whence should I have flesh to give unto all this people? For they weep unto me, saying, Give us flesh, that we may eat. I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me. And if You deal thus with me, kill me, I pray You, out of hand, if I have found favor in Your sight; and let me not see my wretchedness” (Num. 11:11-15).

The prophet Elijah wanted God to take his life when the wicked Jezebel sought to kill him: “And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and withal how he had slain all the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not your life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time. And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belonged to Judah, and left his servant there. But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers” (I Kgs. 19:1-4).

Then consider the prophet Jonah, who was angry that God had mercy on the people of Nineveh and changed His mind about destroying the city. This led to discouragement and depression on Jonah's part: “But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was very angry. And he prayed unto the LORD, and said, I pray you, O LORD, was not this my saying, when I was yet in my country? Therefore I fled before unto Tarshish: for I knew that You are a gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repent You of the evil. Therefore now, O LORD, take, I beseech You, my life from me; for it is better for me to die than to live” (Jonah 4:1-3).

Each one of these men, having bouts of depression, asked God to take his life from him. But Hebrews 11:34 shows that they did go on to overcome their desire to die. God helped all of them through their depressed state. They “quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.”

 

[fitmom]

"Depression" can mean different things. Sometimes it just means a temporary case of sadness or the blues. In its worst form, it's a chemical imbalance in the brain, caused by severe or prolonged stress or by heredity. Christians experience depression for the same reason other people experience it. You may have heard other Christians say that depression is a sin, because we're told always to rejoice in the Lord. I think that advice is a misuse of Scripture that only makes the depressed person feel guiltier and more depressed.

If you're depressed because of a specific situation, it may help to get some good advice from a trustworthy source, like your pastor, a parent, a teacher, or (in some cases) a hotline dedicated to the type of problem you're experiencing.

If your depression is severe or long-lasting, you should probably see a physician. Sometimes it takes medicine and/or therapy to overcome depression. You should also be careful about eating a good diet and getting enough exercise, because poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle can aggravate symptoms of depression.

Beautiful thread!~
It is also hard to be 19, I remember. As females, we learn to love ourselves more and more as we grow and mature. Give yourself permission to do this.
God Bless,J

 

[Knowledge3]

I think simply being happy is finding a natural balance that gets rid of all these symptoms. I found myself mentally blocking out all the medical information above, seeing how absorbing all this information often leads one into thinking about depression. I've had an incredible amount of energy and feel mentally sound..I think maybe it's time speak about the opposite.

 

[Kristi1]

Beautiful thread!~
It is also hard to be 19, I remember. As females, we learn to love ourselves more and more as we grow and mature. Give yourself permission to do this.
God Bless,J

I am glad I could help....

 

[Verv]

what is depression? why do christians get depressed? how do you fight depression?

and angst! where does it come from and how do you get rid of it? any clever thoughts or biblical advice?

much love in Christ,
jenny

Christians do get depressed -- my mother is also a very devout Assemblies of God member, and she has had bouts with depression all of her life due to probably a chemical imbalance or something along these lines; I feel as if it is something where the modern world stresses her out, and the hardships that she has faced as a person can sometimes get the best of her.

I think it is a naturally occurring event for anyone in the modern world, who grows up the way that we do.

To overcome it? I pray, and I remember that pain is temporary. But the best way as I have seen, and experienced, is to understand that God will take care of you, and that furthermore, one should learn to laugh at the absurdity of the situations we get ourselves into.

If we can laugh at the situation, we cn bear what pain we hav to more easily. We can have a realistic perspective and accept the situation.

Once in my unit some people got into major trouble for drug use, resulting in all of us being closely monitored, getting urine analysis tests performed, doing various walk-throughs of our room that essentially made it so on a Friday we were busy well into the night -- and on a weekend which I had manyplans to relax.

Although it is terrible, comiserating with others and laughign at the situation, though it does not cure the problem, makes it better. When we can relate to another human being, and laugh at the situation, everything seems a little better.

 

[SeekAnd]

Biblical Examples of Depression​

Depression has a very long history. The Bible records examples of extraordinary men who suffered bouts of depression. For example, carefully consider the following four men through whom God worked in Old Testament times.

Job was a perfect and upright man. After going through a series of trials, he asked God to take his life. Notice: “But Job answered and said, Oh that my grief were thoroughly weighed, and my calamity laid in the balances together! For now it would be heavier than the sand of the sea: therefore my words are swallowed up…Oh that I might have my request; and that God would grant me the thing that I long for! Even that it would please God to destroy me; that He would let loose His hand, and cut me off! Then should I yet have comfort; yea, I would harden myself in sorrow: let him not spare; for I have not concealed the words of the Holy One” (Job 6:1-3, 8-10).

Moses also experienced feelings of depression. When the people of Israel were constantly complaining about the manna, and wanted meat to eat, he said to God, “Wherefore have you afflicted Your servant? And wherefore have I not found favor in Your sight, that You lay the burden of all this people upon me? Have I conceived all this people? Have I begotten them, that You should say unto me, Carry them in your bosom, as a nursing father bears the sucking child, unto the land which You swore unto their fathers? Whence should I have flesh to give unto all this people? For they weep unto me, saying, Give us flesh, that we may eat. I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me. And if You deal thus with me, kill me, I pray You, out of hand, if I have found favor in Your sight; and let me not see my wretchedness” (Num. 11:11-15).

The prophet Elijah wanted God to take his life when the wicked Jezebel sought to kill him: “And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and withal how he had slain all the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not your life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time. And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belonged to Judah, and left his servant there. But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers” (I Kgs. 19:1-4).

Then consider the prophet Jonah, who was angry that God had mercy on the people of Nineveh and changed His mind about destroying the city. This led to discouragement and depression on Jonah's part: “But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was very angry. And he prayed unto the LORD, and said, I pray you, O LORD, was not this my saying, when I was yet in my country? Therefore I fled before unto Tarshish: for I knew that You are a gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repent You of the evil. Therefore now, O LORD, take, I beseech You, my life from me; for it is better for me to die than to live” (Jonah 4:1-3).

Each one of these men, having bouts of depression, asked God to take his life from him. But Hebrews 11:34 shows that they did go on to overcome their desire to die. God helped all of them through their depressed state. They “quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.”

 

[Kristi1]

No one can Judge a Christian for being Depressed. Sometimes it's hereaditary in some familities, and this is sad.

[bible]Matthew 7:1-5[/bible]



Love n' Hugs, YSIC,

KristiAnn
MsGuidedAngel

 

[If Not For Grace]

My experience in the Mental Health field has led me to the conclusion that the majority of depression is just another form of ANGER.

 

[heffalump_hunter]

"Depression" can mean different things. Sometimes it just means a temporary case of sadness or the blues. In its worst form, it's a chemical imbalance in the brain, caused by severe or prolonged stress or by heredity. Christians experience depression for the same reason other people experience it. You may have heard other Christians say that depression is a sin, because we're told always to rejoice in the Lord. I think that advice is a misuse of Scripture that only makes the depressed person feel guiltier and more depressed.

If you're depressed because of a specific situation, it may help to get some good advice from a trustworthy source, like your pastor, a parent, a teacher, or (in some cases) a hotline dedicated to the type of problem you're experiencing.

If your depression is severe or long-lasting, you should probably see a physician. Sometimes it takes medicine and/or therapy to overcome depression. You should also be careful about eating a good diet and getting enough exercise, because poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle can aggravate symptoms of depression.

I've had chronic depression (chemical imbalance) now for running into 16 years. Also anxiety disorder. It is as Pegatha says.

Through close contact with my family doctor I've been able to keep it fairly well under control. There have been seasons where it has been out of control.

What made a difference for me was quitting alcohol completely. Even just a couple beers a day can mess you up especially if your taking anti depressants. I also had to make an important lifestyle change, and that was my career. I went from being a computer analyst to being a J.A.G. (Just another guard) So I took a "hit" in income, but my overall health is better now than it has been for quite some time.

Excercise most definately helps! Keeping the weight off and keeping in good cardiovascular condition makes a huge difference. And having a circle of support is a definate help too. Preferably people "in real life", though it is nice to post to a bbs and "rant" once in awhile and get some hugs!

And most definately keeping close to our Father in heaven and leaning on Him for our source of comfort is one of the most awesome blessings to come out of this disease!

 

[Kristi1]

My experience in the Mental Health field has led me to the conclusion that the majority of depression is just another form of ANGER.

Sometimes maybe, but, I really don't think so though!

anger is an emoition and it's in the Bible too!

[bible]Ephesians 4:26-27[/bible]


I was born with a severe birth defect, I am Not angry over it, just hurt from it still. Thus my chest looks like a road-map for a Surgeons Scalpel, this is Depressing to me... My mother suffered from Nervous Break-downs and had special treatment in the early 1970s that hurt me to see! My daddy suffered from depression and drank to lose himself. I am an only child. I am Depressed over my daddy Committing Suicide in 2003 after he got Cancer and Lou Gehrings Disease, I was dis-owned by my daddy and never got to say good bye either. Not only did this hurt me it depressed me, this hurt my mother very much to!!

Some times Circumstances can cause Depression, No One has Control over what's going to happen in their lives!

I am Super Stressed and Depressed because of the Social Security Administration (SSA) is taking forever with my Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). I have no control over the SSA thus they depress me. I don't have control over my Disabilities either. Not everyone whom is depressed is angry!!

Ever hear of this below;

Put a "D" in front of Anger and you get = Danger!


Stressed and Depressed in Oregon.....


KristiAnn
MsGuidedAngel

 

[SeekAnd]

One of the worst things about depression is that it is still viewed as personal weakness. People who live with depression have to be stronger than people who dont. They are carrying burdens they cannot share.
People who have never suffered seem to think their "suggestions" are the cure. Could anyone be an expert on a country the've never visited? Could anyone relate the taste of a food the've never eaten?
Some advice from those that dont know is akin to talking louder to a deaf person.
I am a man. Can I ever know what childbirth is like?
I am white. Can I ever know how hurtful racism is?
If you have never suffered from depression can you give advice to those who have?
Concern and comfort are always welcome.
Questions are always welcome.
Telling people how to "cure" depression is inconsiderate.

 

[SeekAnd]

My experience in the Mental Health field has led me to the conclusion that the majority of depression is just another form of ANGER.

I have often heard that depression is anger turned inward. It just might be. If knowing what it is solved the problem life would be a lot easier for so, so many people.
Knowing that a bone is broken doesnt make it heal faster. There are as yet no Xrays, splints, or crutches for mental illness.

 

[heffalump_hunter]

One of the worst things about depression is that it is still viewed as personal weakness. People who live with depression have to be stronger than people who dont. They are carrying burdens they cannot share.
People who have never suffered seem to think their "suggestions" are the cure. Could anyone be an expert on a country the've never visited? Could anyone relate the taste of a food the've never eaten?
Some advice from those that dont know is akin to talking louder to a deaf person.
I am a man. Can I ever know what childbirth is like?
I am white. Can I ever know how hurtful racism is?
If you have never suffered from depression can you give advice to those who have?
Concern and comfort are always welcome.
Questions are always welcome.
Telling people how to "cure" depression is inconsiderate.

Amen bro' .

 

[fallen^sparrow]

One of the worst things about depression is that it is still viewed as personal weakness. People who live with depression have to be stronger than people who dont. They are carrying burdens they cannot share.
People who have never suffered seem to think their "suggestions" are the cure. Could anyone be an expert on a country the've never visited? Could anyone relate the taste of a food the've never eaten?
Some advice from those that dont know is akin to talking louder to a deaf person.
I am a man. Can I ever know what childbirth is like?
I am white. Can I ever know how hurtful racism is?
If you have never suffered from depression can you give advice to those who have?
Concern and comfort are always welcome.
Questions are always welcome.
Telling people how to "cure" depression is inconsiderate.

Well said. The same holds true to all illnessess, struggles and experiences in life. Depression has made me alot more understanding and patient towards all people... and I suppose thats a good thing, right? We are here to learn and grow in Christ and gain understanding and wisdom... not to have a "good time"; hence I believe the reason Christians suffer from all the maladies which surround us in the world today.

As for as anger being the cause of depression... I believe anger is a symptom of depression and typically goes away after the illness has been treated effectively.

fallen^sparrow