Have you heard about the great depression? It happened around 1929 to 1930, originated in the US. Basically, it was the period of the worst global economic down turn in the 20th century. Unemployment rate was so bad that it averages between 25 - 30 % in differing countries. Many basic needs weren't met. Obviously, this is one of the reasons that can cause depression on an individual, unmet needs.
We are still in the global economic recession that started in late 2008, probably one of the worst in the early 21th century, with the unemployment rate that hiked up to 10% in US and 7% in Australia. I'm hoping that we already passed the worst of it.
Now, I'm here to talk about depression. What is depression? It is a condition where one feels sad, gloom, sometimes it could be over a long period of time without any reason. Normally one would have certain moodines, lack of interest in naturally fun things, isolation, overly sensitive, insomnia or hypersomnia. The severity of it can vary from minor to the extreme of psychotic depression.
I think I have had what it is called minor depression. I think I had a few in my life. First of all, probably when I was 11 years old, where we as a family relocate to another city, which means I had to leave all my friends. Secondly, when I broke up from my first relationship, and every now and then probably just relapse, when there is continual pressure at work, finance, loss of family members, friendship, ministry and other things.
I heard from someone too, apparently, being a high achiever or perfectionist increases the likelihood of experiencing disappointment or stress. I think there is also greater pressure for a christian to 'look' good, not to imagine as a leader in this context, a pressure to conform, people's expectation, etc. Perhaps, the solution for this is acceptance, I think when people around you accept you the way you are there is relief and easiness in the atmosphere.
My opinion, depression is a normal part of life, I know a few character in the bible that did experience as what we 'categorized' as depression, e.g. Elijah, David. What most important is how are we dealing with it and knowing what God is trying to do here.
When all things seem to spiral downwards, think about these; you are not alone, there is always someone to talk to and problems are temporary. I'll say this from a convert pessimist's view, ' Life is not that bad after all'.
in His service
Stef
