Coping With Depression

I'm a 19-year-old guy, living in a hostel away from home. For the last 2 months I have been tired ALL THE TIME. I am unable to concentrate on anything and my grades are slipping. I have given up or lost interest in most of the things I used to do. I don't seem to think I can accomplish anything anymore. I feel miserable. Every time anyone says anything to me I over think and over analyze it. I am irritable, sad, and angry all the time. I get horrible headaches. I feel like a failure. I just feel bogged down in general and I really want to figure out what I should do. One of my closest friends said to me that I am suffering from depression. Am I?

Ruby: Almost everyone at one time or another experiences a period of depression. Most people get over it with a little time. But for some people, the feeling continues. Some of the signs that often accompany depression: a growing distrust of God, resentment of others, difficulty making decisions, guilt, laziness, sleeplessness or oversleeping, not eating or overeating, doubting, complaining, worrying, and hopelessness, as though you're in stuck in a pit.

Coral: Here are some probable causes of depression:

1. Physical: Some depression is caused by physical problems. Improper diet, lack of exercise, and not enough sleep can all contribute to depression. So if you are feeling "down," make sure you are taking care of your body. In addition, many illnesses can cause depression (others may be caused by depression). Also, some medications can cause depression. It's always a good idea to see your doctor for a checkup t rule out physical reasons.

2. Losses and other hurts: When something bad happens to you, it's normal to feel hurt. You may have lost your friends or been left out of an activity. You may have been wronged in some way, recently or in the past. You may have a bad relationship with a friend, family member or, if dating, a boy/girlfriend. A loved one may have died. Or you may even be hurting about something you've never had, but feel you should have. It is okay for you to hurt over a situation like this. Tell God about your hurt. He already knows, but it is important for you to put the hurt into words and tell Him. Also tell a trusted friend, or consult a counselor. Allow yourself to cry if you want to. Normal grieving, including crying, is healthy. The Bible says that Jesus "bore our grief's" on the cross (Isaiah 53:4 NAS). He feels our pain as strongly as we do and will carry it for us. Give your hurt to Him.

3. Wrong thinking: What do you think about right before you feel depressed? Do you think such things as "I'm no good," or "I can't do anything right," or "Nothing will ever change"? It's very important for you to find out what God says is the truth about you and your life. Here are some bible verses that you might like to read:
   1. God's love for us (YOU) -- Psalm 42:4-11
   2. The right way to think -- Philippians 4:4-13
   3. God is touched by our (YOUR) feelings -- Hebrews 4:14-16
   4. God gives peace -- Isaiah 26:3; John 14:27

Ruby: If your depression continues, seek help from your doctor and/or a qualified counselor. There ARE answers for you. But, finding and solving the original causes of depression does not always happen quickly.

Coral: Thankfully, as desperate as everything may look, there are real reasons for hope. God loves you. And He wants to fill you with joy, peace, and so much more. The Bible says that Jesus came that we "might have life, and might have it abundantly" (John 10:10, NAS). Certainly, depression is not abundant life. But you can be assured that God wants you to find His peace and joy. He will help you because you are very, very important to Him.

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