Is There Anything Good About Depression?

    “Answer me quickly, Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide Your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I entrust my life” Psalms 143:7-8

    For those of us who suffer depression, having the word “good” connected to it seems ridiculous. In a general sense there is nothing good about depression. Nevertheless, I believe there are some side effects of suffering depression that can be good.

    Depression can drive us into the loving arms of God. Depression humbles us, shows us our weakness and needs, and reminds us that life is not always easy. And it can open our eyes to the fact that there must be something more “out there".

    I have read that there is a higher percentage of authors/writers who have depression than the general population. And that does not surprise me, as writers often strive to communicate their feelings on the written page, and are sometimes driven to do so by their emotions. 

    Some with depression are more creative, perhaps they “live in their head” more, think more, are alone more, and may be more sensitive and perceptive because of their depression. None of this makes depression good, but perhaps it is God’s consolation for our misery.

    Yet depression can be dangerous, it has taken more lives than automobile accidents (according to the CDC). It often needs both medication and counseling. It is serious, and having suffered with it for years, I do not make light of just how horrible and dangerous it is.

    Ultimately we must give our depression to God, counting upon Him to bring us through. Our strength alone is insufficient.

    You will find it is necessary to let things go, simply for the reason that they are too heavy. —Corrie ten Boom

    If you have depression or think that you do, and you have not already done so, I would encourage you to seek help, get counseling, if recommended, take medication. And always call upon the Lord to aid you in this terrible battle. We are not alone in the fight against depression.

    Prayer: Dear Lord, when darkness surrounds us, please shine Your glorious light into our lives. Amen.