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About 19 million Americans suffer from some form of depression. Although no one knows exactly what causes it, depression is an actual medical condition.
If you've ever suffered from depression, you know it's not something you can simply talk yourself out of. When you write to someone who is depressed, it's easy to give pat answers and platitudes - but that can do more to alienate than help the person.
As a believer, you can be a lifeline between Jesus and someone who is depressed. Here are some things not to say (and some things you can say) to someone who is depressed:
What not to say:
- You just need a hobby or something to take your mind off yourself.
- Go out and help people, and you won't have time to feel sorry for yourself.
- You'll feel better if you go to church.
- That which does not kill us makes us stronger.
- Everyone has a bad day every now and then.
- God never gives you more than you can handle.
- Happiness is a choice.
- Just think positively.
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What to say:
- I'd like to be praying for you: is there something specific you'd like me to pray for?
- I know this is a difficult time you're going through, and I want to stand with you.
- I know that depression is a medical condition, and it's not something you can "will" yourself out of.
- I want to help you: how specifically can I do that? (You can offer suggestions such as bringing a meal, meeting for coffee, driving to appointments, etc.)
- No matter what you're going through - including depression - you are precious in God's eyes. He said that in Isaiah 43:1-4, and it's not conditional on anything you've done or how you feel. You are precious in His sight. That's how He sees you.
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Reprinted with permission by IntegrityNotes.Com
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