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
Very interesting post. I must say that I concur wholemindedly with this as I am in such a season of depression. My worst ever.
ReplyDeleteAny comment about the accomplices of depression? Rage, acting out of the ordinary, apathy, just to name a few?
Furthermore, ur right about being a Christian and experiencing such. I've found fellow Christians to being very critical instead of supportive of ppl experiencing this phenomenon. It has really opened up my eyes to who really cares, (whether they can understand or not).
At the end of the day, if a man is thirsty, He shall remain thirsty until he either drinks water, or dies.
And as Christians, if a fellow has needs, dont just preach about the solutions, be the solution.
similar sentiments. found this post about depression an interesting one. probably 'depression' sometimes seems like a 'taboo' emotion to have when you have Jesus in your life. Living up to the expectations of others about being filled with love, joy, peace etc always. But it's ok to grieve, it's ok to be depressed for that little while, and then allow His helping hand and His fellow children to lift us up and walk on from there.
ReplyDeleteI like this blogg, because i can see the man that honest about himself and open his life and offer his help to others who maybe going through the similar situation.
ReplyDeleteI feel like when we are spending time with people who are going through this, God is actually doing work in our own life,the ability to understand others, accept the difference and appreciate what's been given and enlarge our capacity.
My prayer to this is that people will overcome the depression with light of Jesus and for people who are care about their love ones/friends will be humble,bring comfort and encouragement,love to them and they will reach to their potential too. no one is perfect,we can make effort to be the best we can be.
After all, I want to say life is good, so God give it to you. =)
Hi Mmilidzi,
ReplyDeleteWhere are you now? Still rapping?
in regards to my comments to accomplices of depression,I think it depends on the individual's personality. I know some people, including myself probably just become really quiet or some just having outburst of anger.
I think what's important is to help the person understand what is happening in his mind at that moment. I know that helps me a lot, just by understanding why am I feeling this way and slowly try to change the situation with the help of others.
Plus, a lot of prayers help..
Stef