Demystifying Depression
Introduction
"Whether an illness affects your heart, your leg or your brain it's still an illness and there should not be any distinctions" Michelle Obama
Mental health issues such as depression is nothing to be ashamed of neither is talking about it. Depression is a result of the interaction between the three components of the soul: the mind, emotions and will. It begins with negative thoughts entering the mind, which then leads to a focus on self-criticism and perceived flaws. The will then consciously chooses to dwell on these negative thoughts, and this ultimately triggers deep sadness or grief in the emotions. This interplay between the mind, will, and emotions is described as the process through which depression manifests in an individual.
Causes of depression
Depression can be caused by negative thoughts influenced by external factors such as loss of a loved one, or a job, or exposure to negative events. (1Samuel 1:6-7). To address feelings of depression, one must address the root cause of negative thoughts and exposure. A person's exposure shapes their thinking, which in turn affects their emotions and decisions. Making decisions based on negative thinking can lead to actions that form negative habits and ultimately shape one's character.
Symptoms of depression
Depression is a serious condition that affects the mind and soul, often leading to negative impacts on emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. While sadness is a temporary feeling that can pass relatively quickly, depression persists for an extended period typically lasting at least two weeks. (Prov 14: 10) Symptoms of depression include a deep sense of sadness, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, social withdrawal, fatigue, lack of motivation, feelings of worthlessness, persistent negative thoughts, and in severe cases thoughts of death or suicide.
Myths vs Fact
Myth: Depression is uncommon
Fact: The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that 1 in 4 People experience a mental health condition. Furthermore, they estimate that more than 450 million people worldwide have mental illness. According to WHO Mental disorders are among the leading causes of ill health and disability worldwide.
Myth: Depression is not in my family, it will never affect me
Fact: Depression can be caused by negative thoughts influenced by external factors such as loss of a loved one, or a job, or exposure to negative events.
Myth: Depression is a sin
Fact: Depression is not a sin; it is a serious illness that needs prayers plus treatment. Just like any other illness, God gave doctors and mental health professionals the skills and ability to help those suffering.
Myth: People with depression cannot be achievers or leaders
Fact: Depression and other mental health illnesses do not disqualify people from leadership or achieving. An example is Naomi Osaka, an outstanding tennis star, winner of 4 Grand slams, 2021 Laureus Sports woman of the Year and brand ambassador for many companies was diagnosed of depression. Another example from the bible is David (1 Samuel 30:1-10)
Myth: It is shameful to discuss mental illness openly
Fact: Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of but stigma and bias shame us all. The church should be a safe space for people to discuss mental health without stigmatization.
Depression is a real illness that affects our ability to cope with and manage our lives.
Myth: I cant do anything for a person with depression
Fact: Family, friends and loved ones can make a big difference. We should provide the same support for any ill person as follows; Show them love, be available, support and care for them. Help them to access Health care if they need it. Get enlightened and share the facts about mental health. Treat them with respect and dignity.
Myth: Children do not have depression
Fact: Very young children may show early warning signs of mental health concerns. It is an interaction of biological, psychological and social factors. 50% of all mental health disorders show before the age of 14, so it is not just an adult problem. 75% of cases begin before age 24 (WHO 2022)
Stigmatization and its impact
Stigmatization is “the assignment of negative perception to an individual because of perceived difference from the population at large; it may occur on the basis of physical appearance (including race or sex), of mental or physical illness, or of various other qualities”.
The stigma of mental illness is universal, and these are some of the impacts:
lower self-esteem increased psychiatric symptoms, reluctance to seek help or treatment, difficulties with social relationships, at school & work, isolation, susceptibility to bullying, harassment, violence and the list goes on.
Recommendation
Cast all your cares on Jesus: In addition to seeking professional help, Christians should know that God wants us to have peace. 1Peter 5:7 says Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Whenever the bad thought come, just say no that's God's business now, refuse to carry it.
God will never leave us: Hebrews 13:5 says let your conversation be without covetousness be content with such things as you. The Bible says godliness with contentment will produce great gain. He will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support.
True change comes from altering one's thinking patterns: as a man thinketh in his heart so is he. (Phil 4:8-9) The bible is admonishing us here finally brethren whatsoever things are true whatsoever things are honest whatsoever things are just whatsoever things are pure whatsoever things are lovely whatsoever things are of good report if there be any virtue if there be any praise think on these things. Verse 9 tells us those things which you both learned and received and heard and seen in me do and the God of peace shall be with you
God saves and delivers from all illnesses: Even if you haven’t seen the change, you must declare that no matter what I've seen or heard or feel I believe God, I'm not going to stop believing. You catch thoughts with words not with thoughts you don't try to cast negative thoughts down by thoughts. (Matthew 6:25)
Formal and informal supports: It is not a sin to seek professional help for depression. It is important to address depression promptly to prevent further negative consequences. Also find strength from your community networks such as the church, your family, friends. (Romans 15:1) You must develop positive attitudes, understand your mental limit, build resilience skills and good communication skills to avoid falling into depression if you have been exposed negatively.
Do not separate yourself from the love of God: God will deal with the very root of the issue, you must realize that there are certain things that only God can do.
Conclusion
📢 Only God can address the underlying issues that lead to depression and negative emotions.
Prayer:
By the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ, I command the spirit of depression to go right now in the name of Jesus. I command the deliverance that God has made available to every born-again child of God, to every person that you be healed from that demonic spirit of depression. Depression, you will no longer torment, you will no longer control, you will no longer lead, your time is up and I call every man, woman or child reading this out of depression. The curse of depression no longer rules in your life, for whom the Son sets free is free indeed, you are delivered from depression, amen.
For more information on access to Mental Health Services ➡️
📌 Your GP
📌 The Samaritans - www.samaritans.org
📌 Longford Counselling Service - www.longfordcounsellingservices.com
Yours in the beloved
Mandy Adegboyega