What does the Bible say about depression?

Depression as a Widespread Human and Christian Experience

What does the Bible say about depression? How can a Christian overcome depression? We're going to answer those questions. You can also discover more on GotQuestions .org. Depression is a widespread condition affecting millions of people Christians and non-christians alike.

Those suffering from depression can experience intense feelings of sadness, anger, hopelessness, fatigue, and a variety of other symptoms. They may begin to feel useless, even suicidal, losing interest in things and people that they once enjoyed.

Depression is often triggered by life circumstances such as a loss of job, a death of a loved one, divorce, or psychological problems such as abuse or low self-esteem. The Bible tells us to be filled with joy and praise.

Situational Depression, Joy, and Practical Christian Help

So God apparently intends for us all to live joyful lives. This is not easy for someone suffering from situational depression, but it can be remedied through God's gifts of prayer, Bible study and application, support groups, fellowship among believers, confession, forgiveness, and counseling.

We must make the conscious effort to not be absorbed in ourselves, but to turn our efforts outward. Feelings of depression can often be solved when those suffering with depression move the focus from themselves to Christ and others.

Clinical Depression, Medical Care, and the Role of Faith

Clinical depression is a physical condition that must be diagnosed by a physician. It may not be caused by unfortunate life circumstances, nor can the symptoms be alleviated by one's own will. Contrary to what some in the Christian community believe, clinical depression is not always caused by sin.

Depression can sometimes be caused by a physical disorder that needs to be treated with medication and or counseling. Of course, God is able to cure any disease or disorder. However, in some cases seeing a doctor for depression is no different than seeing a doctor for an injury.

There are some things that those who suffer from depression can do to alleviate their anxiety. They should make sure that they are staying in the Word, even when they do not feel like it. Emotions can lead us astray, but God's Word stands firm and unchanging.

Enduring Trials, Temptation, and the Call to Praise

We must maintain strong faith in God and hold even more tightly to Him when we undergo trials and temptations. The Bible tells us that God will never allow temptations into our lives that are too much for us to handle.

Although being depressed is not a sin, one is still accountable for the response to the affliction, including getting the professional help that is needed. Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name.

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