Are You Experiencing Signs Of Depression?

Signs Of Depression can really hurt! NeedEncouragement.com

 

Please contact us if you have questions or comments or want encouragement.

If you think you are experiencing depression, which has been lingering for a week or more, and if you are sincerely concerned about it, I would encourage you to see a doctor or at least a pastor. I mention talking to a pastor because often, signs of depression come about with unconfessed or habitual sin.

Getting to the root of the problem is always better than trying to mask it with medication, yet medication has its place in dealing with depression. I say this because I have been depressed at two different times. Signs of depression can be subtle at times, but if you are concerned, by all means, talk with someone you can trust or even contact a medical clinic. It is hard to explain the feelings, except when I was depressed, I had no interest in anything I usually liked. I barely made it through daily without crying or feeling down and not right, hoping the dark cloud over me would pass. The best advice would be to pray and then seek help. You do not have to do it all alone. ~ Bill Greguska

Psalm 143:7-8 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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Are You Experiencing Signs Of Depression?

 

Signs And Symptoms Of Clinical Depression May Include:

  • Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness, or hopelessness
  • Angry outbursts, irritability, or frustration, even over small matters
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies, or sports
  • Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
  • Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort
  • Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain
  • Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
  • Slowed thinking, speaking, or body movements
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame
  • Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions, and remembering things
  • Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, or suicide
  • Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches

Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D.

 

 

 

 

 

 

There Is Help For Depression!

One or more situations cause situational depression. These situations can be upsetting but not necessarily real depression—possibly a job loss, a divorce, the death of a loved one, etc. If you think you might be experiencing signs of depression, please pray about it, and if you feel a confirmation that you might be having symptoms of depression, go check it out medically. Some treatments and medications can help.
I would not suggest taking medication unless you first tried other means, such as talking things out, getting some exercise, eating more healthy, and getting 7-8 hours of sleep. But if you feel you have tried other things, and you are still depressed, then go ahead and take it as prescribed and do other things to take care of yourself, such as exercise, eating healthy, get enough sleep, avoiding alcohol, and other drugs, and praying and walking closely with the Lord. Psalm 23:1-6. When you’re depressed, things may feel hopeless, it is a feeling that is hard to explain, but if you have signs of depression, you will notice the difference compared to when you feel your usual self. With spiritual help, support, and encouragement, you can get better. I was very depressed, and my doctor suggested taking Cymbalta for a while, so I am glad I did. I went from total despair to a more manageable depression in a time, and I thank God for that!

Check List To Consider Concerning Depression:

Here are some basic ideas to consider as to why you might not be feeling well:

  1. Are you getting enough exercise?
  2. Are you eating healthy and avoiding junk?
  3. Are you drinking enough water?
  4. Are you getting 7-8 hours of sleep each night?
  5. Is there any unconfessed sin in your life?
  6. Is there anyone you need to ask forgiveness for?
  7. Is there anyone you need to forgive?
  8. Have you been feeling sorry for yourself?
  9. Have you been laughing very much lately?
  10. Have you been socially connected?
If you wrote down ten things you are grateful to God for, you would begin to feel much better. I get “depressed” sometimes too, but since I experienced real depression in high school and a broken marriage, I have learned that depression feelings are usually just feelings of sadness, or physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually tired, burnt out temporarily.
But if you think you are genuinely depressed, consider getting professional help. Antidepressants can be helpful, BUT I would try to read the list above and see if that helps. If you feel suicidal, then get help right away. Here is a good page with information to help if you feel suicidal. Or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) right away.

 

In Our Broken World, Do You Have Signs Of Depression?

 

There Will Be Storms In All Of Our Lives

Weathering the storms of depression is something that needs help from God, a close friend, a church member, or possibly medical treatment. My pastor’s wife, Sue Sauer, helped me a lot when I was depressed while going through a divorce I did not want – also, my mother, Pastor Mark Mallwitz, and Pastor Dave Briscoe were all very encouraging. When I trusted a close friend for support, I learned it took the load off my shoulders. Sometimes depression can be pure spirit and must be fought with God’s word. Take your concerns to the Lord and ask His help to sort things out with you. Depression is the physical and emotional result of hopelessness, the “feeling” of hopelessness. We live in a world devoid of hope, and depression is the irrational product of that reality.  Remember that sadness is a very regular part of life. Depression does not have to be a way of life! Like a dog, depression can be controlled and trained. Bottom line; you can overcome depression!

 

 

 

Utilize Medical Help When Needed, and Keep Looking Up! 

There Is Help For Signs Of Depression! NeedEncouragement.com

There is help for depression. Call upon the Lord! And get some exercise, eat healthy, get enough sleep, and think about what is good and Godly!

If I were you, I would see my doctor or therapist before getting too far down. Pay attention to your symptoms and the feedback from trusted friends and loved ones. The sooner you recognize and admit you are depressed, the sooner you turn things around. Sometimes, using anti-depressants for a short time can be very helpful. If you or someone you know suffers from depression, there is hope for depression, and help is available. You are not alone. With God’s help, you will climb out of this hole.
These scriptures on depression will give you hope and will build your faith. Confess and meditate on them to win the fight. The key is not losing Hope.
Allow the hope of God to seep back into you. Remember, there is a real Person (God) behind every one of these promises. He promised them to you for a reason – to help you.
  1. Psalm 145:14
  2. Proverbs 12:25
  3. Isaiah 40:31
  4. Isaiah 53:4
  5. Mark 9:23 
  6. Philippians 4:6-7
  7. James 4:8 
  8. James 4:10 
  9. 2 Peter 2:9 
  10. 1 Peter 5:7 

 

 

 

What Is Depression?

It is an illness that involves the brain. What are the signs of depression? It can affect your thinking, mood, and daily activities. Depression is more than feeling sad for a few days. Depression can be mild or severe. Mild depression can become more severe if it’s not treated. Often people use the expression, “I am depressed about (___________),” which is not necessarily the same as clinical depression. If you are diagnosed with actual depression, you aren’t alone. Depression is a widespread illness affecting millions of adults in the United States annually. The good news is that it can be treated. Getting help is the best thing you can do for yourself and your loved ones. You can feel better. Talking with a close friend, pastor, or counselor can help determine what is going on initially. It could be a situation, or lack of proper sleep, diet, exercise, etc.

 

Living With Depression Can Be Difficult At Times!

 

What Are The Signs Of Depression?

It’s normal to feel sad sometimes, but if you feel sad or “down,” sometimes. When you are down for more than two weeks, you may be depressed. Depression affects people differently. Some signs of depression are:
  • Losing interest in activities you usually enjoy
  • Feeling hopeless or empty
  • Forgetting things or having trouble making decisions
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Gaining or losing weight without intending to
  • Thinking about suicide or death

 

 

Get Active!

Getting active can lower your stress level and help your treatment work better. It can also help keep you from getting depressed again. But it’s important to know that physical activity isn’t a treatment for depression. 
  • If someone you care about is down and can not get back up.
  • If you think a friend or family member may be depressed, check out these tips on talking to a loved one about depression.

 

Get Help Right Away If You Have Been Thinking About Suicide.

(Above The https://healthfinder.gov website partially supplies informationhttps://healthfinder.gov website)

 

Ideas To Help Fight Signs Of Depression!

If you or someone you know need help, here are some helpful tips and encouragement about how you can overcome this type of thing and build your faith:
  • Avoid being alone; be with people who love and care about you.
  • Sing or listen to uplifting, Godly music.
  • Read the Bible daily (especially the Psalms) and draw strength from it to renew your faith in God.
  • Get enough rest! Don’t try to handle your depression when you’re sleep-deprived.
  • Exercise and examine your diet for needed changes.
  • Eat more fruits and vegetables and fewer refined sugars.

 

 

More Ideas To Fight Depression And Signs Of Depression!

  • Seek help from others if you feel overwhelmed with your discouragement.
  • Praise God and give thanks, even if you don’t feel like it. Try to speak words of encouragement instead of falling into the rut of complaining. Focus on your blessings: You have many of them, even if you can’t always see them.
  • Work on the solutions for your problems. Don’t focus on the symptoms.
  • Is there a spiritual problem you need to deal with? Is there a relationship you need to reconcile? Become active in a recreation you enjoy.

 

 

 

 

 

Some Specific Scriptures To Encourage You:

Philippians 4:13 ESV

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

1 Peter 5:7 ESV

Casting all your anxieties on him because he cares for you.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ESV 

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

Isaiah 41:10 ESV 

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

1 Corinthians 6:19 ESV 

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,

John 10:10 ESV 

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

Matthew 11:28-30 ESV

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Jeremiah 29:11 ESV 

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Psalm 42:11 ESV 

Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.

Psalm 42:5 ESV 

Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation.

Deuteronomy 31:8 ESV

It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”

1 John 1:9 ESV 

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1 Peter 5:6-7 ESV

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time, he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him because he cares for you.

 

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