Depression
This is our dedicated page to learn more about how to cope with Depression. Keep scrolling to discover more...
How Depression Can Differ
Mild Depression
Often characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, low self-esteem, and difficulty concentrating. Individuals may still function relatively well in their daily lives but may feel persistently sad or down. As the name suggests, the symptoms are milder, more subtle and less intense.
Moderate Depression
This level includes a low mood lasting most of the day,
accompanied by at least four additional symptoms, such as poor appetite, insomnia,
low energy, and feelings of hopelessness. Physical complaints like headaches or
digestive issues may also occur.
Severe Depression
Known as major depressive disorder, this is the most intense
form of depression. Symptoms include a persistent feeling of sadness, loss of
interest in activities, and significant impairment in daily functioning. Individuals may
experience suicidal thoughts or self-harm.
Our
Top Tips
- Seek professional help: A doctor can help you figure out if your experience
requires professional treatment such as medication or therapy.
- Creativity: Making something, even if it’s something small, can really boost your mood. You can learn a new craft or keep it simple and just try drawing something.
- Do something you enjoy, even if it no longer seems appealing. This could be
doing a sport, cooking or baking, watching your favourite movie or reading your
favourite book.
- Get out of the house, even if it’s just for a walk or to buy some milk. The fresh
air and daylight can be very helpful.
- Get into nature: Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or an urban dweller,
research suggests nature and the outdoors can improve your mood
- Set attainable goals: Sometimes a long list of jobs can be daunting, so instead
set small goals. Setting and accomplishing these goals can provide a sense of
control and accomplishment and help with motivation. For example, instead of
‘clean the house’ try ‘take out the rubbish’.
- Be kind to yourself: Try positive self-talk and writing down the things in your life that
are good.
- Listen to some good music: Whether it’s worship music or just your favourite,
music can help us recognize, express and process our negative emotions as
well as give us a dopamine boost.
- Read about other peoples experiences: Learning about other peoples struggles
with depression can help you to feel less alone and offer hope for the future
- Reach out and listen: Letting someone know that you’re there for them and attentively listening to what they say can really help. You don’t have to understand what they’re going through, but letting them know you love them and that you want to understand better can be very comforting.
- Learn about their depression: Depression can be different for different people so by learning to recognise someone’s symptoms and triggers can help you to be a more considerate friend.
- Offer practical assistance: Helping someone cook or clean can help take off some of the pressure they may be experiencing as well as help them to feel more normal. Please note, this should not be considered a long term solution as it may lead to co-dependency.
- Encourage them to seek professional help: Seeking treatment for depression can involve a lot of steps, and depression's impact on the brain can make it difficult for people living with depression to initiate those steps.
- Do activities with them: People with depression often find it hard to do activities they once enjoyed, so offering to go with them or asking them to come with you to your activities can be a gentle way of encouraging them to get out the house and do an activity they enjoy.
How You Can Help Others
What Does The Bible Say?
Biblical take: The Bible acknowledges the reality of depression and offers comfort, hope, and guidance for those experiencing it, emphasizing God's presence and care during difficult times. We see many bible characters battling with feelings of depression such as Elijah and King David, who in the Psalms writes “So my spirit grows faint within me, my heart within me is dismayed” (Psalm 143:4). In moments of despair, the Bible encourages believers to lean on their faith. Isaiah 41:10 offers comfort: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.” This verse serves as a reminder that God provides strength and support during challenging times.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you that you are always with us through the highs and lows of life. Thank you that you know and understand what we are going through, as you yourself suffered great emotional pain before your death. Lord please will you lift our spirits and give us the strength and guidance we need to get through each day, and help us to remember that this suffering is temporary and that in you we have new life and new life to the full. Help us to experience the joy of the Lord that comes with following you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.