Depression Is Real

by Zeke Flores

I understand the hard-fought struggle for those who wrestle with feelings of inadequacy, isolation, and gloom. And I know that when others say that depressed people should just “snap out of it,” well, that’s just dumb.

Unfortunately, too many who grapple with depression hinder their own recovery by dwelling on the depression itself. For instance, one who loses a loved one may linger far too long on the pain of loss instead of allowing the memories of that loved one to comfort and cushion the pain.

I believe that, over time, a person can be lifted from those dark depths, whether it be through self-counseling, friendly encouragement, or professional therapy. And I believe that the most significant help a person can receive may come from within themselves, with God's support. By working (and it is work) to control their thoughts and thus their emotions, a person can begin to move past the darkness of depression to a better, healthier outlook. Then, acting on more positive thoughts, they can start to interact with the world in a more confident manner and, ultimately, feel much better about themselves and their circumstances.

I’m not a mental health doctor, but I do know that for a person sinking into the depths of despondency, perspective is everything. And there is a Doctor for that.

"Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you" (Philippians 4:8-9).