Being Real: Depressed

There are many times in our lives where we hit places like despair, loneliness and exhaustion. These truly are dark places that can suck us into being depressed. No matter what sends us into depression, getting out of that state is not easy and it doesn’t happen overnight. Though depression comes on over time, sometimes the signs are subtle so you don’t notice them before you recognize yourself as depressed.

depressed

Signs of Depression

There are many signs of depression and and the more you’re aware of them, the better you’ll be able to work through being depressed.

  • Desire for seclusion
  • Loss of appetite
  • Wanting to stay in bed all day
  • Anxious for nightfall
  • Pulling away from family/friends
  • Frequent change of moods
  • Irritability
  • Feelings of Unworthiness
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Daily Alcohol Consumption

This list is not all inclusive, there are many other signs of depression. Typically depressed people struggle with feelings, actions and/or thoughts that are not typical for them.

If You’re Depressed

Should you find yourself in a state of depression, you must take action to move beyond this dark stage in your life. No action will only allow you to sink further into a depressed state.

  • Start by talking to your spouse, pastor, parent and/or close supportive friend.

Hiding away your thoughts, feelings and/or actions will only deepen your depression, through an increased desire for seclusion, feelings of unworthiness/failure, etc.

  • Ground yourself in God’s promises.

1 Peter 5:17, “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4, “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”

Deuteronomy 31:8, “And theΒ Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.”

Romans 8:38-39, “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Psalm 42:11, “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”

Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

  • Push yourself to do things you enjoy…even if you start with things to do alone.

~ Watch your favorite movies

~ Read a book by your favorite author

~ Take walks on the beach

~ Enjoy hot shower/bubble baths when you’re feeling stressed/overcome with emotion

  • Don’t be afraid to see your doctor.

Depression untreated/unresolved can hurt you and/or your family

 

Being depressed is not something that only happens once. Typically if you’ve dealt with it once, you will again. Each time that you get on top of it and push through it, you’ll come out stronger than you were before and more able to take it on the next time.

Depression don’t have to run your life. You can rise above it. It will take time and perseverance, but you can succeed in living free from depression.

It’s your life that God has gifted to you…He will help you overcome being depressed!

mistysig

About Misty Leask

Misty is a Daughter of THE King, Texas girl always, Navy brat at heart, loving Fisherman's wife, blessed mother of 2. She is passionate about being real throughout all of life's struggles, successes and dreams. Her heart is full of ideas and passions, but the hours in her day never multiply to get it all done. Misty loves writing and reading in her spare time. Music and photography are favorite past times of hers as well.

Comments

Being Real: Depressed — 19 Comments

  1. What a great comprehensive post. Beautiful verses and suggestions. As one who struggled with depression after losing our daughter, I know they each will be a step closer to wellness. ~Pamela

    • I’m so glad that there are others that are willing to share on this difficult topic. Sometimes I think we fear we’re alone in so many things that we keep them to ourselves and then no one gets better because we tuck it all inside. Hugs!

  2. For some it is very hard to rise above depression and it requires help from a professional. It can often take a family member to take action because the person suffering is not capable of doing it. My son and mother both suffer from depression and it can incredibly difficult some days. Supporting someone with depression does make a differences and encouraging them to do some of the things you have listed, with out that support they often can’t do it themselves.

    • Yes, support is very important for anyone struggling with depression. Though there isn’t an absolute way of handling depression, because it varies with each person, support is always needed. Thank you for stoppin by Jo! Blessings.

  3. This is right on target. Thanks for being real about a subject that many people don’t want to talk about. I just read that about half of evangelical Christians believe that depression can be cured by just spiritual means. I know a few of those people who seem to look down at me because I see a doctor for mine.

    Pushing yourself to do something that you enjoy is difficult, but my doctor recommends it. She called it some kind of “activation.” It does work. I also find it’s helpful to do something that blesses someone else.

    • Yes, sadly it is true that many Christians refuse to believe that depression can require a doctor or counselors help. This is just another thing that is killing Christianity, we refuse to accept people just as they are and help them…instead we judge them. Praying for you Melissa. <3

  4. Thank you so much for talking about depression. I was diagnosed with clinical depression at age 22. It’s very well-managed, but I make a huge effort, every time I have a negative thought or feeling, to examine it and determine whether it’s proportional to my experience or might be coming from a chemical imbalance.

    It’s so important to let people know that depression happens, that’s it not weakness to experience it, and that there is help, not just in addressing the circumstances that might have caused the depression, but also for the thoughts and feelings that come with it.

    • Yes! There are so many sides of depression and one persons depression may not look like the next. Everyone is different and can require different treatments. We need to come along side and help and be there for those that struggle, instead of judging them. Praying for you Sadia! <3

  5. Pingback: My Heart...Depression, Suicide, Christianity and Grace - Beautiful Ashes

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