WWJD About Depression?

Recently, on the radio, I was listening to a speaker talk about the effects of volunteer work on symptoms of depression.  This grabbed my attention for a number of reasons.  Primarily, because I have seen the effects depression can have, both in my life and in the lives of family members and friends.

The speaker reviewed a study that looked at patients with diagnosed depression and the effects that volunteering had on them and their symptoms.  To everyone's surprise, patients who volunteered time consistently, had better or equal effects as those patients who were taking anti-depressants for their depression and/or used other forms of therapy.  I suppose one could surmise that a combination of these things could be very helpful.  I did some research on my own online and found the reported results to be very positive. 

I suppose that as Christians, we shouldn't surprised by this data.  What did Jesus demonstrate over and over again?  Servant-hood!  He cared for others in need - both spiritually and physically.  Even when Jesus knew that He would be betrayed and killed (can you imagine the weight of that knowledge?) he chose to serve.  John 13:1 tells us that even with all this on His mind and heart he chose to, "show them the full extent of His love."  He washed the disciples feet.  What an example! 

I guess it all makes sense.  I have found that helping others who are in need, truly takes my mind off of the things that are getting me down or the stress I feel.  I can't help but feel joy and satisfaction when I can help someone who is hurting or needs a hand - and slowly, I begin to realize that those things that I have allowed to bring my heart to low places, just aren't so weighty any longer. 

I was just on the phone with a girlfriend who has suffered debilitating depression for years, spending much of her time isolated and in bed.  I asked her what she thought of volunteering in relation to depression.  She was right on board, saying that she feels "soooo good, a hundred times better" when she is volunteering her time to those in need.  While she still maintains the medical and emotional therapies prescribed, she is convinced that time helping others has been the best medicine.


As God works through us to love and help others, He shows us that ALL things are possible though Him.  Then we are better able to see how He is working through difficulty in our own lives.  He can use ALL things for our good, because we love Him!  And when He brings us through on the other side, we are able to say to our Sisters, "I understand what you are going through, I will help you shoulder the burden and walk this with you."  That is just what we want to do, isn't it?!  So, my mind goes back to the book of James and that we are to consider it pure joy when we face trials of many kinds... YES!  JOY!!  There is joy there in the depths dear Sister, even if it is hard to believe.  Choose it!  One of the best ways to find it, is to give it away to others who need our help, who need a Savior... Watch God give to others through you, and see Him simultaneously begin to fill you up!  He is ABLE!

In no way do I intend to diminish the seriousness of depression and its effects.  I believe that this scientific revelation is so timely, and lines up exactly with the teachings of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  What could be better and more satisfying than the privilege of being the hands and feet of Jesus? 

What do you think?  What has been your experience?  Do you think this is worth a shot, to see if it would help?  I would love to know your thoughts!

1 Peter 4 :7-19

The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.  Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.  Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.  Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.  If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God.  If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.  Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.  But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.  If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.  If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.  However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.  For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?  And, "If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"  So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.