Sunday Writing.... 10/23/16

Good Morning,
Today's devotional was written by Jan Andersen.  The title is, "DEPRESSION."   She describes what depression is and what it is not, and how we can help. Jan wrote, ".....of utmost importance, pray.  Let them know you are praying for them, and do so regularly.  Remind them of God's mercy and love for them if they are unsure of it, especially if they feel unworthy."


Have a great Sunday!
God bless,
Corinne and Jan

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  Sunday Devotional  

"DEPRESSION"

written by

Jan Andersen

Many people have struggled with major depression, including myself.  It is difficult to cope with this disease, as all the things that help are often the last thing a depressed person wants to do or is able to do.  Some of those things that can help are getting good sleep, eating right, exercising regularly, taking good care of yourself physically, setting simple goals for the day, connecting with other people for support, and even helping other people. Clinical depression is a chemical imbalance issue in the brain which creates feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. That can make it hard to do any of those helpful things listed above. 

People who love someone who has depression can offer support in many ways.  Understanding what it is and is not is a first step.  It is important to realize that it is not something someone who is depressed could just wish away, or that they could pull themselves up by the bootstraps and get on with life.  It is not a character defect or a flaw in their personality.  It also is NOT a reflection of a faltering or lack of faith.  When a person struggles to get relief or relapses into depression more than once, it is not because they didn't try hard enough to rely on God.  It has been shown in studies that the brain chemicals do not work correctly in a depressed individual.  That person has no more control over that than you have control over whether your heart beats or not, or whether your food digests properly, and so forth.  Understanding goes a long way in supporting them and can guide your responses.

Helping can come in many forms from other people.  Sometimes it is important just to be present and not abandon those who are depressed.  A physical hug when the person gives permission can boost positive feelings.   Offering support beyond saying, "Let me know if there is anything I can do" can be important, because the depressed person sometimes doesn't even know what they need let alone how to ask for it.  Be specific like, "Can I call you tomorrow evening just to chat?" or "I would like to go out with you this week. What day works for you for a lunch?"  The simplest of decisions are sometimes too difficult for that person, so gently suggesting specifics may help.  And if they say they just can't, then be understanding and don't push, but reaffirm your commitment of caring support.  As the holidays approach, realize that those with depression may have more than their usual difficulties, especially if they have lost loved ones near those dates or have minimal family support when everyone else is enjoying family get-togethers. Very importantly, don't be afraid to ask them if they are safe.  If they seem to have significant thoughts of suicide, especially including specific plausible plans, don't be afraid to make sure they get professional help.  

Finally, and of utmost importance, pray.  Let them know you are praying for them, and do so regularly.  Remind them of God's mercy and love for them if they are unsure of it, especially if they feel unworthy.  If there are situations they feel guilty about, reassure them of God's understanding and forgiveness.  However, remember that depression is not a sign of weak faith but rather a medical condition.  Pray not only for the depressed person but also for all the others that God sends to help them - family, friends, and professionals.

As I said at the beginning of this devotional, I have suffered with major depression.  It also has been a blessing, in that I now am able to help others who are suffering. I am currently doing very well and grateful to God for all the help he sent my way and the support I still have.  We may live with darkness but we don't have to be blotted out by it.  God has lifted that dark cloud for me for now.  His light blocks out all darkness.   May we all help share that light with others.

Prayer (from Psalm 31:1-5 NIV):In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness.  Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me.  Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me.  Keep me free from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge.  Into your hands I commit my spirit; deliver me, Lord, my faithful God.  In Jesus’ name,  Amen.  

If you are not sure if you qualify as depressed, you can take the self-test below to see where you score on a depression scale:

https://psychology-tools.com/zung-depression-scale/

If you have been depressed for more than 2-3 weeks you might want to consider talking to your doctor or seeking counseling.

If you have feelings of wanting to commit suicide, please call for help immediately:

You can dial 911 and be evaluated at your local hospital. 

You can call a suicide hotline such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 (available 24 hours a day, every day)

Written by
Jan Andersen

                                                                          

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Prayers are lifted up daily for 

you by the Devotional Writers 

and the Monthly Writing Staff

of Women's Focus Ministries.

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