Telling People

[Staci]

Thankfully my depression is under control, I was able to find a combination of medication, counseling and prayer that works for me. However I have been working with the youth at my church and have recently started taking on a much more active role. I feel that I should disclose my depression to the youth pastor but I'm not sure how and I'm worried that I will be viewed as someone who is not fit to work with the youth. So any advice that anyone has would be great. Thanks.

 

[pilgrimgal]

Thankfully my depression is under control, I was able to find a combination of medication, counseling and prayer that works for me. However I have been working with the youth at my church and have recently started taking on a much more active role. I feel that I should disclose my depression to the youth pastor but I'm not sure how and I'm worried that I will be viewed as someone who is not fit to work with the youth. So any advice that anyone has would be great. Thanks.

First of all..I am glad to hear you are serving in this capacity. Teens often suffer from periods of depression so you'll be good for them especially as a good listener. Since you feel your depression is under control there is probably no reason for you to explain this to the youth pastor. However, if you feel the youth pastor is a friend and trustworthy..then perhaps sharing this would make you feel better. In any event pray for wisdom as to what you would say. Remember none of us have to tell all and all conditions from which we have suffered. I had cancer 22 years ago when there was a bigger stigma on that than even now; so I was careful about who I shared that with lest they fear that because of that I was going to get sick and die and so wouldn't want me in ministry. Sad, but true..many people are somehow threatened by things like cancer and depression.