Dealing with Depression 27th March 2013

Praise be to the God and father of our lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 2 Corinthians 1 v 3 & 4

Overview framework for understanding depression case studies how can we be effective comforters? questions

Why talk about depression? Its common Its serious The Bible speaks of it It affects our spiritual life Its often misunderstood

What is Depression? symptoms: –physical –psychological –social –spiritual pervasive low mood

Physical Symptoms low energy easy fatigueability poor sleep poor appetite weight loss reduced libido

Psychological Symptoms poor concentration recurrent negative thoughts hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness guilt suicidal thoughts psychotic symptoms

Social Symptoms isolation anxiety overly self-conscious

Spiritual Symptoms lacking assurance inappropriate guilt feelings of failure feeling abandoned by God distorted views of God

A Spiritual Framework Genesis 1 & 2: spiritual needs social needs need for meaningful occupation & purpose harmony with nature peace with oneself Genesis 3: separation from God social separation & exploitative relationships burdensome work pain & death fear, shame & anxiety

stresses/losses early experiences lack of meaning physical illness genes biological make-up temperament personality thinking patterns depression

Important Lessons depression is usually an effect of general, rather than specific sin (Jn 9 v 1&2) the causes of depression are poorly understood anyone can become depressed

Other forms of depression Bipolar depression Seasonal Affective Disorder Post-natal depression

Case Study 1 James, 55 year old business man happy stable childhood married with 3 adult children 2 previous episodes of severe depression very busy at work but no other recent stresses Christian, involved in local church

Case Study 1 continued depression came out of the blue poor sleep, agitated and anxious mislaid a key; thought this would mean the world would end needed hospital admission because of severity

Case Study 2 Sally 45 year old pub owner mother died when Sally aged 7 husband left her 10 year previously Depressed for 8 months following this Her only son recently died suddenly

initially appeared to be coping busy supporting other family members had not had time and space to grieve suddenly went to pieces existential crisis could not face living any longer Case Study 2 continued

How Can We Help? what won't help: –being like Jobs comforters –being glib –being judgemental

what may help: –listening –understanding the issues and taking them seriously –prayer –patience –gentle encouragement –practical support –encouragement to seek medical help

Treatments for depression Exercise + tackling lifestyle issues Psychotherapy, particularly CBT Medication ECT

What Answers Does A Christian Faith Provide relating with God meets existential needs realistic view of ourselves helps meet our psychological needs possibility of healed relationships and forgiveness social structure and opportunity for service afforded by a church fellowship, prayer, love and acceptance

Further reading