You Can’t Be Depressed, You’re a Christian!

One of the most difficult aspects of depression for a Christian is acknowledgement that the condition even exists, that it is not something we can just “snap out of” although well-meaning friends may suggest such.

“We walk by faith and not by sight…”

“Faith without works is dead…”

These Biblical scriptures pop into mind as I vacillate between “I am healed” (while still taking my medication) to “this condition is disabling.” Realizing that clinical depression manifests itself in various ways, 17 years after my first diagnosis, I am still challenged by the idea that one day I can be absolutely hunky dory and the next I may feel defeated, extremely self-critical, sad, angry, moody and hopeless. Being menopausal is my added bonus.

Thankfully, I have never attempted suicide. Many depressives do attempt to end their lives, some succeed and, although I have briefly entertained the idea, I am thankful to say I have no intention of putting the thought into action. This does not make the condition any easier to live with, and depending on one’s physical makeup, culture, social and economic status, etc., depression will affect a depressive and the people who love him/her in various ways.

When people ask me to describe how it feels to be in a state of depression, I usually go to…