Depressed?

During the conference that I attended recently, the main speaker, a Christian psychiatrist with 50 years of experience shared on the topic of depression. He shared on the different types of depression and the signs & symptoms, causes and treatment. Some people think that Christians don't get or should not get depression. We need to rejoice and be victorious. But the truth of the matter is that it happens. It can be caused by life events, genetics, physical, upbringing, social expectations, culture, job and ambitions. Sometimes we don't even know we are in it or recover from it without realising it. Some examples of Bible characters who suffered depression include Elijah and Jonah.

The speaker shared that if one were to face 2-3 major losses or changes within a 2 year period, a person could be susceptible to depression. They just find that they cannot cope with the changes happening all at once. We need to recognise the symptoms early and take precaution. Things like a change in sleeping pattern, inability to concentrate or cope, and irritability are just some signs to look out.

One of the things that I noticed from the various sharing by others was how our upbringing can affect us as adults. The unreasonable expectations and lack of affirmation by our parents had caused many to grow up with guilty feelings and shame of never being good enough. As adults we continue to seek the approval of people and things to show that we are successful. We look for someone or something to fill the emptiness within. When we fail or do not receive the affirmation then our world collapses and we feel like failures. Ask yourself - Why are you doing what you are doing? Is it to please others, yourself or God? What is driving you? Is it your guilt, duty or shame that is driving you to succeed?

As Christians, we need to remember that God loves us for who we are and not what we can do for Him. How do we know that? Well, He loved us first before we loved Him! Jesus was the proof of that love. There is nothing that we can ever do that will make Him love us more. His grace is sufficient! Do you know that love our Father shows?

Let's take heed and have the right attitude to serve and live. Develope coping skills and don't be afraid to ask for help or be sensitive to those around us.

Ps. Ben