People suffering from mild depression usually recover in a short period of time. For others, recovery is a longer process. It is one of the most common emotional problems people experience. When you are depressed, you feel sad, discour-aged and unable to get "on top of things."
What Scripture Says
"Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me with Your generous spirit" (Psalm 51:12)."And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28).
"And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses" (Mark 11:25).
"Come to Me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30).
How To Recognize Depression & Discouragement
The symptoms of depression include:- Physical problems - Trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, loss of weight, loss of interest in sex, complaints about the body, and lack of energy.
- Thinking patterns - Problems with concentration, poor memory, difficulty making decisions, excessive self-criticism, thoughts of death or suicide.
- Emotional turmoil - Hopelessness, guilt, irritability, crying, fear, gloomy outlook (sometimes covered up by opposite behaviour such as giddy, inappropriate laughing, or being very quiet and sweet).
- Slowing of normal activity - Withdrawal from social contacts, deterioration of work and personal appearance.
- Extreme change of behaviour - Irresponsible behaviour and attitudes may surface. Loss of control and an accompanying mental/emotional breakdown sometimes follows.
- Difficulty in performing tasks - Disorganization, laziness, avoidance of a difficult task, poor work habits, unresolved pressures at work, unfinished jobs, stress, overwork, frustrations of not being employed in area of natural ability/gifting, etc.
Some Causes of Depression Are:
Grief and loss - due to the death of a loved one, loss of job, or breakdown in relationships with others, eg. husband/wife, children, church, parents, relatives, neighbours, and fellow employees.
Physical problems - medications, drugs, alcohol and lack of sleep/exercise may cause (or indicate) depression or discouragement. In women, childbirth, menstruation or menopause may be factors.
Self-condemnation - due to sin and resulting guilt (such as dishonesty, sexual lapses, failure to witness or to fulfill responsibility).
Financial and material problems - resulting from gambling, lack of employment, installment buying, overspending, abuse of credit cards, etc. Crossroads is happy to help. In fact, that's the whole reason we exist as a ministry. The daily 100 Huntley Street telecast and the 24-hour-a-day Telephone Ministry line are here for the same reason. You may want to call us as you are reading this: 1-866-273-4444
God loves you and we love you! Please give us the privilege of doing our best to help more. For further ministry, you may contact the Crossroads Ministry Centre by writing to:
Crossroads Christian Communications Inc.
Attn: National Ministry Centre
PO Box 5100
Burlington, Ontario L7R 4M2
