Written by God…brought to you by the Bible Geek®
Introductory note: true depression is far more than “feeling down” as some people might believe. Prolonged bouts with depression, might be caused by chemical imbalance, hormonal shifts or sustained encounters with abuse, stress, sickness, or other serious issues. This is not to say that every instance of being depressed is a chemical or medical situation, only that some cases are and need to be treated as such.
Clinical depression is not something to be taken lightly, nor is it something that can be “cured” with a simple conversation or Bible Study. Those suffering from clinical depression should speak (or be directed to speak) to a licensed professional for guidance, input and pastoral care. Those who are “depressed” but not in a clinical sense ought to seek spiritual guidance through a parish counselor (if possible), a priest, someone who works in pastoral care at the church, or in a trusted friend who will give them the sort of healthy attention they need.)