I've had several ideas for today's post, but something that I think needs to be addressed is a common thing I know Christians with depression face quite frequently. It's the idea that "more faith" would cure depression.
This is not only blatantly false, but also a dangerous mindset to have.
Just as someone with cancer can suffer, even being faithful, so can someone with depression. To think otherwise is wrong.
Just as Paul suffered with the thorn in his flesh, so can someone who is suffering from depression.
There are many causes of depression, and there are many things that can relieve symptoms. Even lift someone out of it. Prayer, reaching out to God can help, but isn't an assured cure. Therapy, medication and more can also help. Diet, exercise, sunlight, there are a little of different possible things that can help relieve depression.
Christians struggling with depression should be able to reach out to their church congregation and leaders when they are suffering, but so many feel the need to hide it. They feel that if they let anyone know they could no longer serve and would be looked down upon. This is a sad position, as often times serving in a church can help someone through a rough time of their life.
Those suffering do need to be mindful of their condition and not take on more than they can handle. But simply suffering isn't enough for someone to be written off. I know there is likely a lot more I can say, but I do believe I have expressed the idea enough.
One book I found to be quite helpful is John Piper's When the Darkness will not Lift. I encourage everyone who suffers from depression or knows someone who is to read it. It's a short book, so those who don't read often can get through it as well.
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