UNDERSTANDING
DEPRESSION
QUICK LINKS
CHECK-IN
HOW
ARE YOU FEELING?
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Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
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Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism
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Irritability
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Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
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Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
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Decreased energy or fatigue
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Moving or talking more slowly
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Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
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Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
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Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
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Appetite and/or weight changes
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Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
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Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment
WHAT IS DEPRESSION?
If you have been experiencing some of the above signs and symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression.
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The National Institute of Mental Health reports Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the U.S. Current research suggests that depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Depression is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.
CHRISTIAN
CONNECTION
THE MENTAL & SPIRITUAL CONNECTION
You are not an anomaly. You are not less of a child of God if you suffer from depression. God’s prophet, Elijah, showed symptoms of depression. If you were to review the symptoms of depression,
Elijah would be the poster child.
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a) He no longer sees the value in living
b) He’s lost his appetite.
c) The man of God has excessive self-pity
d) He’s isolated himself.
All these symptoms are to such a degree that it is impairing his daily life. Then he went on alone into the wilderness, traveling all day. He sat down under a solitary broom tree and prayed that he might die.
“I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors who have already died.” (1 Kings 19:4).
God’s response to Elijah was not one of disappointment or anger. No. God encouraged Elijah to eat and rest. God is not disappointed in you.
His desire is for you “to prosper concerning all things and to be in good health, just as your soul prospers.” (3 John 1,2)
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
TAKE THE SURVEY
Check-in and connect with your mental health. This quick survey will help you identify areas where you can find balance.
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DEPRESSION | ANXIETY | BALANCE
PRAYER REQUEST
Life is difficult at times and we all need prayer. Please share your prayer request with us and we will be praying for you.
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GET HELP!
The free and confidential resources below can help you or a loved one connect with a skilled, trained mental health professional.
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