Depression????

I have it, and want to beat it. Even as a Christian, a well read Christian, I struggle with depression. Prayers are appreciated, and any quick thoughts on how you may have overcome your challenges with depression?

I believe there is a light at the end of this tunnel. Amen

Al 4 now B

Wow, great answers so far. I neglected to mention I do take an anti depressant, I also ha undiagnosed sleep apnea for 20 some odd years, I'm on a cpap now, dibetis type II, and I'm under control with oral meds and diet (counting carbs).

Finally my relationship to God, is what keeps me from doin something totally off the wall. I agree is physical activity but I have a hard time with the gumption end of it. I am married and I will never look elsewhere for love or physical needs (she is my .... gift from a gracious God). I'm a putz at times, some one want to kick me in the pants ( not to hard I'm brittle)

Yes, that is one of the most important parts of overcoming something like this, is a faithful relationship with not only God, but with your family as well.

When I was younger, in my mid and late teens I suffered from SAD - (Seasonal Effective Disorder) during the winter months. Through prayer indeed, but also through trying to keep myself around a constantly upbeat attitude, I eventually overcame it. I don't have it today, so yes, that is a great blessing.

I also tried getting outside as much as possible, walking, bicycle riding, even reading. And yes, even though my activity was limited during the winter months, I tried my best to keep my mind active as much as possible during the cold months.

I would recommend doing everything you like to do, hobbies, movies or TV. If you work, get even more involved with work. That's one option. Beginning something new can occupy the human mind extensively. Also, when I was depressed, I tried my very best, (it didn't always work), but I tried for it to just not think about it. Now, I realize this of course may not work at all, none of this may for you. Every person is different.

What always assisted me was being able to simply wake up in the morning, alive, being able to see and hear, and touch and smell. Having my family, being able walk and breathe. Being blessed with the Almighty's evergiving creation. Being able to simply go outside and appreciate everything that's outside, from the trees and the birds to the buildings and the life around me.

"Surround yourself with color, sunsets and sunrises, water, music, light, wind, and everything that you appreciate." I know you explained you also use an anti-depressant. If you continue to experience medical difficulties, and through nothing else if nothing else works, then you can always seek unltimate assistance at various clinics such as the ones others here have listed. There's also the Mayo Clinic. They have some of, if not the best researchers and doctors in many different fields who are some of the best leading experts.

I wish you the best of luck. And remember, "Hope is a great thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies."

depressed and angry at the world that was me for the longest time. some days so so and other i had some very malicious thoughts. i actually talked to my doctor and he prescibed me a zoloft derivative. at first it didn't do smurf. and then i started to smile and felt a since of peace and serenity and now im able to laugh. and its nice. please talk to your docter and see what he can do for you.

HUH? okay, you r depressed. exercise is the first thing. that #1 kiddo, your body needs to breath, it increases blood and oxygen flow, relieves stress, creates sense of accomplishment, pin points a new beginning. 2. try bumping up your protein intake, this'll bump your testosterone levels, and that'll make you feel fifteen again. get a hobby, jogging, golf, bike riding, whatever, get out of the house as much as possible. 3. find a new love interest, sex, affection, that amazing sense of euphoria when you first meet that one person. 4. if the bible isnt working, put it down for a while, having faith is fine, but maybe you should consentrate on having faith with in yourself for a while. 5. change your diet, eat better, different foods, drink alcohol, wines, lagers, etc. not to get drunk just to relax.
depression usally stems from lack of change, i think anyway. the actual meaning of insanity is - performing the same action time n time again expecting a different outcome.
so do something different. infact do everything different.
good luck, cheer up. tomorrow's the first day of the rest of your life.

I am not quite sure what being a Christian has to do with it. Even with your belief in the Lord you must see what a sorry state the world is in. You can put all your faith on God but God also made pharmaceuticals to help people deal with what is most often a clinical medical issue.

Seek out the help of a well qualified Psychiatrist. Talk to them about what is bothering you. Sometimes just letting it out to another person helps. If not don't be afraid to take medication. It will reduce the symptoms and allow you to fully embrace your issues without going to the dark place.

God in what ever form you see it Him wants you to be healthy and happy.

"..even as a Christian..."
You think Christians are supposed to be immune to depression? Prayers and God do not resolve depression or any other problems; at best, if you believe in God, prayers may ensure you get what you deserve and nothing more.

Depression is solved through therapy, action, and if necessary, drugs. If you're severely depressed, prescription may be your last resort. If you're able to manage it as of now, you might want to set some fun but small goal and achieve them. Maybe its loosing a few pounds, or learning how to cook something new, or getting something done at work or home. Actions and accomplishments, no matter how small, are crucial to overcoming depression. Remember, if you can do something for 21 days straight, you're likely to form a habit out of it.

Good luck.