Depression affects millions of people worldwide and remains the number one health problem globally. While often misunderstood, depression goes far beyond just feeling sad - it can be a debilitating condition that impacts every aspect of life. Deaths as a result of depression surpass cancer and each person experiences depression differently.
There are three main categories of depression:
- Clinical depression: Major depressive episodes lasting at least 2 weeks disrupting sleep, appetite, relationships and the ability to concentrate.
- Chronic depression (Persistent Depressive Disorder): Less severe symptoms but lasts 2+ years.
- Lifestyle depression: Symptoms tied to how you live rather than biology/neurology affected by life imbalances. It doesn’t matter how smart, how successful, or how spiritual you are – you have LIMITS and crossing them puts you at RISK!
The Bible tells us “whatever you do, get wisdom.” When we open God’s word, we are searching for wisdom and we find biblical wisdom addressing depression from the story of the prophet Elijah in 1 Kings 19. This account provides powerful insights for dealing with depression. Even this great man of God experienced deep depression after facing threats from Queen Jezebel.
His story reveals four God-given principles for finding hope:
- Regain Control: Elijah was experiencing fear, loneliness, desperation, low self-esteem, exhaustion, and anger. God started Elijah's recovery by addressing physical factors first.
- Proper nutrition and diet promotes brain health and stabilizes moods.
- Regular exercise releases endorphins that combat stress and activate pleasure centers of the brain.
- Adequate sleep is important. Chronic sleep problems plague 50-80% of those living with mental health difficulties. Looking at screens near bed time and during the night hours especially disrupt sleep patterns.
- Rediscover fun. Finding activities that bring joy is a necessity, not a luxury.
“We were never designed for the sedentary, socially isolated, sleep-deprived, poorly nourished, indoor, frenetic pace of modern American life” (Dr. Stephen Ilardi, The Depression Cure). When you neglect your design, depression is inevitable.
- Reengage Spiritually
- Don't let shame cause you to withdraw spiritually. Don’t let it silence your spiritual receptors. There is no substitute for intimate encounters with the presence of God.
- Listen for God's gentle whispers. Elijah was used to dynamic displays of God’s power but his encounter in this passage was a whisper. Whispers are heard when you are close. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. He’s never left you and He wants to give you strength.
- Press into worship rather than pulling back. Worship is the greatest antidepressant available.
- Let God's presence bring peace and joy. He inhabits the praises of His people. Praise is a garment and it is irrelevant until you decide to put it on.
- Reset Your Thoughts
- Stop ruminating on negative thoughts.
- Replace lies with God's truth.
- Stand on God's Word daily.
- Renew your mind with scripture.
Stop chewing the wrong thoughts and start choosing the right ones, thoughts that bring life to your soul and to your spirit. You come out of the cave one verse of the Word at a time.
- Return to Purpose
- Remember you still have value and purpose.
- Your struggles don't disqualify you.
- God can use you even while you're healing.
- Helping others often brings healing to yourself!
Take some time this week to evaluate your life in these four areas. Ask yourself:
- What physical habits do I need to change to better care for myself?
- How can I press into God's presence rather than pulling away?
- What negative thought patterns do I need to replace with God's truth?
- What purpose and calling has God given me that I can pursue even while healing?
Recovery starts with honesty and reaching out for help. You don't have to fight silent battles alone. God has given you an army of support through His church, medical professionals, counselors, and loved ones. Take one step today toward hope and healing.
