depression
What Depression Is Good For
In my book Dark Clouds, Silver Linings, I make the point that depression is actually a “healing emotion” — if you cooperate with it. God has created us to experience depression, and we need to understand why it is there.
Depression can be seen as one of three things: a symptom, a disease or a reaction. As a symptom, depression is part of the body's warning system. In the case of a serious illness, it slows us down so that healing can follow. Otherwise we would self-destruct. If we heed its call and get the necessary treatment, the depression brings healing.
Major depression is also a disease in its own right. Major depression afflicts many, and has no other physical consequences other than robbing us of joy and the ability to live to the fullest. But when it prompts us to seek treatment, it brings healing of body, mind and spirit.
Someone has said that depression is a cry of the soul that something is missing. This is certainly a perfect description of reactive depression. And as a reaction, depression plays a particularly important role in healing. It removes us from our environment and slows us down so that we can come to terms with our loss. This is called “grief work.” When we do it properly, it brings profound healing to every part of our being.
Can depression ever be a healthy response to life's circumstances?
Yes, it can. One of the biggest mistakes we can make is to think of depression only in terms of pathology. Depression can be a healing emotion. It can bring us face to face with ourselves so that we are forced to make healthier choices.
There are times when being depressed is God's plan for your life! Perhaps the best example of this is grief. Grief, including crying, is good for us. It cleanses our soul and emotions. Extreme loss — such as bereavement or being divorced — calls for grief. And the more freedom we give ourselves to grieve, the more rapid is our recovery from the loss.
Background Information
Medicating Depression
If you have these symptoms of depression, it might be time for antidepressants.
The Symptoms of Depression
Most people associate depression with a feeling of gloom or sadness, but there is a much more important set of symptoms to keep in mind.
Understanding Depression
Depression afflicts everyone at some point. Knowing what to expect can make it easier to address.
Questions and Answers
How can I best help my child cope with depression?
Answer
I love our baby a lot and wouldn't trade him for anything in the world, but I don't understand why I'm so depressed.
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
Lost and Found
If you met me today, you'd never know I've struggled with a mental illness, but learning to love life again after facing tragedy was a long and painful process.
The Light of Depression
Surprisingly, my season of depression led to a greater experience of joy.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Loneliness and Depression Afflicting the Elderly
If you know an elderly person who you suspect is clinically depressed, don't brush it off. Do whatever is necessary to get them the help they need.
Spend It Any Way You Like
Sometimes, the meaning of life is found in the most surprising places.
Related Topics
Transitions: Changing Jobs, Moving
Relationships: Communication Gaps
Parenting Teens: Communication Problems
