Depression can grab a hold on anyone at anytime; bringing with it a whole range of emotions. The depressed individual can feel sadness, anger, loneliness, and a foreboding sense of gloom. These feelings can last a few days, weeks, months, or even years if not properly treated. In this article I will cover some of the key weapons, the sufferer can use, against depression; hopefully bringing down this mental illness. A strong support system is vital in the fight against depression, so I am going to cover a few things will help the depressed develop a firm support team.
The first line of defense, in my opinion, is having a trusted doctor diagnose anyone struggling with depression. Depression can be situational; however, there are a plethora of cases where a chemical balance in the brain is the root cause for such negative feelings and emotions. I would recommend that anyone who struggles with depressive symptoms, for an extended period of time, seek out a good Doctor. The advancement in medicine has caused many depressed people regain their lives; which adds to a portion of a strong support system.
There is nothing better in the world than having a good therapist. I am seeing a therapist on a weekly basis and the improvement in my thinking has increased immensely. I’m sure many of you reading this would prefer a Christian therapist, and that is fine as long as they know how depression works. The way people view themselves has a lot to do with feelings of depression, or any other emotion for that matter. Developing a solid relationship ,with a good therapist, can aide in the recognition and healing of the view of oneself.. A trustworthy counselor can help the depressed see where their thinking may be off; eventually lifting the feelings of depression. This piece to the puzzle is extremely vital when building a support system, and the benefits could pay off for a lifetime.
Finally, including friends and family in the mix ,of helping the depressed individual, is the icing on the cake. Involving those who love the person dealing with such a powerful emotion will increase the chance of that individual coming out of depression. Family and friends ,often times, are key in helping someone deeply depressed sense the love and compassion needed for recovery. If you are reading this article and are struggling with depression, I encourage you to seek out loved ones for support. Maybe you are reading this article and desire to know how to help your family member or friend, just get involved. The more love and care shown to someone who is down, the more their spirit will be lifted out of the pit of depression.
Depression is extremely hard to deal with; I know it all too well. However with the right support system anyone can overcome the dark cloud of depression. Remember, find a great doctor, therapist, and include tons of family and friends, and you will be on your way to a bright future.
Rob Price robprice33@gmail.com
No friend is better than Jesus, who will help you through this. Didn’t He promise: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matt 11:28-30 NIV)