Depression (Part II)

After reading part one of this two part series, then it should be clear how notorious depression is, and how debilitating it can be. Being able to identify the warning signs will lead to early detection which can greatly impact the recovery process.

Some Signs and Symptoms:
* Persistent sadness and or feelings of hopelessness/worthlessness

* Loss of interest in activities once pleasurable

* Insomnia or excessive sleeping

* Loss of appetite or overeating

* Impaired concentration

                                                                        * Thoughts of suicide

                                                                        * Indecisiveness

Before I proceed to the secular treatment, it is important I make clear the fact that fighting the battle against depression becomes twice as hard when God is not central to the healing process. When you feel as if you’re being drag down into the dark pit of clinical depression, Jesus is the ray of light that bids you to step out in His shining glory. Prayer changes things, but it is useless if unbelief is dominant. So before attempting any form of treatment, trusting in God is a vital component in the recovery equation. “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13)

Treatment:
Psychotherapy or Talk therapy can be very effective in treating mild to moderate depression. However for depression that passes that stage, medication is needed; at times a combination of psychotherapy and medication (Antidepressants) is required. If these two methods fail, then there is Brain Stimulation Therapy, which is a more advance treatment option for resistant depression. It is important to note that these treatments are administered by a medical profession. Clinical depression cannot be treated with an over the counter prescription or home remedies.

How to help:
* Be patient in dealing with the individual. There is no quick fix; improvement will take time.

* Offer support. Showing genuine interest for the well being of the depressed person can be his/her strongest motivation.

* Encourage Him/her to take part in regular day-to-day activities.

* Be a good listener.

* Never disregard signs or talk of suicide

* Pray; there is power in prayer.

If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, seek assistance from a health care provider. Remember that with God in the vessel, you can smile at the storm.