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“Depression” is a word often used and misused by modern Americans. True clinical depression (also known as “Major Depressive Disorder” or MDD) comes from biological root causes such as brain chemistry or hormone imbalance, bipolarism, etc. This type of depression needs treatment by a medical practitioner.
Often, what is called “depression” by the average American is not MDD. It is an intense sadness. A common factor among those who have this intense sadness is that they lack hope and are discouraged.
To pull out of this form of “depression,” I suggest the following steps. First, pray with faith (1 John 5:14-15). Second, focus on others (Philippians 2:3). Third, do something nice for someone else (Proverbs 11:25).
The last verse in that list is a promise to Godly people. “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25). In reality, this intense sadness (often mislabeled as depression) comes from focusing on self. Whenever we focus on the good of others, we will find our feelings of sadness drifting away to be replaced by joy.
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).
Larry Fitzgerald
Woodlawn church of Christ
Abilene, TX