Depression
Depression
Depression can feel like walking through a valley shadowed by a cloud that never lifts. The days may blend together in a gray haze, and even the smallest tasks can feel like mountains. As a Christian psychotherapist, I want you to know that feeling this way does not mean you are weak, faithless, or beyond God’s reach. In fact, the very pages of Scripture are filled with people who wrestled with despair—David, Elijah, Job—and yet found God faithful in the midst of their struggle.
When a client comes to me battling depression, our first step together is to slow down and acknowledge the weight they’re carrying. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Sometimes, simply hearing that God is near—even when we can’t feel Him—begins to break the lie that we are alone in our suffering.
From there, we begin to explore both the practical and spiritual dimensions of healing. I encourage clients to talk openly about their feelings without fear of judgment. Depression often thrives in isolation, but confession—bringing what is hidden into the light—can open the door to comfort and change. This is not about forcing positivity, but about creating a safe space where grief, confusion, and even anger toward God can be expressed honestly.
I often remind people that depression is not purely a “spiritual problem” nor solely a “medical problem.” It’s a whole-person challenge—affecting body, mind, and soul. We may discuss the role of sleep, nutrition, exercise, and sometimes medical treatment, alongside prayer, Scripture meditation, and worship. God created us as integrated beings, and neglecting one part of ourselves can hinder our ability to heal.
Spiritually, one of the most powerful tools is to anchor ourselves in truth when feelings tell us otherwise. Depression can whisper, “You are worthless,” but Scripture speaks a different word: “You are fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). It can say, “Nothing will ever change,” but God promises in Isaiah 43:19, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” We work on memorizing or meditating on these promises, not as a quick fix, but as daily nourishment for the soul.
Prayer also becomes a central rhythm. For some, words come easily; for others, all they can muster is a sigh or a tear. Romans 8:26 assures us that the Spirit intercedes for us even when we can’t find the words. We might also practice breath prayers—short phrases like “Lord, be my strength” inhaled and exhaled throughout the day—to remind the heart of God’s presence in every moment.
Over time, the valley may not vanish overnight, but the light begins to break through in small, almost imperceptible ways. A moment of laughter. A willingness to meet with a friend. A morning where getting out of bed feels possible again. These moments are seeds of hope—evidence that the God who began a good work in you is still at work.
If you are struggling today, know this: depression does not define you, and it does not have the final word. The Lord who walks with you through the darkest valley will also lead you beside still waters and restore your soul. You are seen. You are loved. And you are not alone.