Dealing with Depression

The angel of the Lord returned and, touching him, said: “Get up and eat, for the journey ahead is long.” Elijah got up, ate, and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. - 1 Kings 19:7-8

The Lord said: “Go out and present yourself before me on the mountain, for I am about to pass by there.” - 1 Kings 19:11

There are very difficult stages in life, and in some of them, it seems there is no way out or hope. This happens to everyone at some point. Anyone who has faced such a situation knows what it’s like to be under such great pressure that there is an enormous weight on the soul. Yes, depression can also knock on our door. When this happens, we have two possible choices: to flee or to confront.

The prophet Elijah went through a severe depression, and his initial intention was to give up. But God showed him that he still had a long journey ahead: he needed to continue! Elijah obeyed, recognized that the Lord was present, and sustained him. With complete certainty, he could trust and depend on his God. The same happens to you! Get up and seek the presence of God. Believe that with Christ you can face any situation that troubles you.

Confront depression in the presence of the Lord:

• Believe that God is present! - Ask the Holy Spirit for help to face and overcome this depressive phase.

• Emotions by faith - Even if you don't "feel" good, battle depression by activating your faith in Christ.

• Seek (read and listen to) the Word of God - Steer clear of self-help books. What you need is help from above.

• Pray, cry, and pray some more... - Pour out your heart before God with tears and prayers. He wants to hear and encourage you!

• Seek true joy - Fill your heart with psalms and praise! Connect the sound, sing, praise, and dance for God...

• Share your problem with a mature person of faith and ask them to help you in prayer.

• Be grateful! Look around and thank God for what He has already done in your life and for what you have.

• If necessary, seek medical help or a specialist - In chronic cases of depression, the assistance of a psychiatrist or therapist will be important. There are many Christian psychologists who can help you in this phase.

Remember that depression is a phase. Be encouraged! Christ has overcome the world, and by faith, you will also overcome.

To pray:

Lord, help me face this moment of depression with courage and confidence in you. Grant me the faith to move forward today, even with tears, but with hope and renewed strength. In the midst of this storm, help me to depend more on you and to believe that you are present with me at all times. I pray to you and thank you, in Jesus' name, amen.