Progressive Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Inc.
Control Your Stress

DEALING WITH STRESS AND DEPRESSION

Depression often falls within one of three categories:

1. Emotional
2. Physical
3. Spiritual

The definition of Depression ranges from feeling the "blues" to disturbed thinking patterns including suicidal thoughts. What do you look for; what are some symptoms of depression? Consider these possible warning signs:

• Pessimism, feeling of gloom
• Helplessness, despondent, dejection, hopelessness.
• The tendency to cry when you are alone for no apparent reason.
• Irritability, hostility, anxiety, and disturbed sleep pattern.

Before I share some tips to deal with, and possibly cure, depression and stress lets look at some possible causes.

EMOTIONAL CAUSES:

Loss of a loved one or loss of job, financial crisis, and domestic problems including spousal abuse, low self-esteem, disappointment, and self-pity.

PHYSICAL CAUSES:

Depression is sometimes caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain, an over active or under active thyroid gland, or low blood sugar. Sometimes the side effect of a medication can cause depression. Women are more prone to depression then men because of their biological difference. Often depression in women are related to PMS.

SPIRITUAL CAUSE:

Sin, and / or its result, can cause depression, illness, and death.( I John 1:9-10; Proverbs 28:13; Ezekiel 18:4.)

How can we prevent depression and stress?

1. Face the situation:  Run to the WORD of God for your comfort. "We are troubled on every side yet not distressed. We are perplexed but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed." (II Corinthians 4:8-9) "Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned in whatever state I am, therewith to be content." (Philippians 4:11)

   "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you." (I Peter 5:6-7)

    

2. Talk to someone you can trust and confide in:  This could be your Pastor, or a professional Counselor. Get a prayer partner. In case of domestic or spousal abuse check with the local agencies for professional advice.

    

3. Schedule a time for personal devotion: Effective prayer is good, but not whining and complaining.  (Philippians 4:6-7; Matthew 14:23; Luke 6:12.)

    

4. Maintain a Spirit of thanksgiving: "In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you".         (I Thessalonians 5:18)

   

5. Memorize scripture:  "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee". (Psalm 119:11)

    

6. Upgrade your vocabulary:  Replace I can't with I can! Replace its no use with I believe there's hope.               (Philippians 4:13; Psalm 42:11)
7. Read the Bible everyday:   Complement your reading with other inspirational books. Church members can see a library committee member for available books on subjects of interest to you.                                                                                               
8. Listen to church service tapes and spirit filled worship music: "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our lord Jesus Christ."             (Ephesians 5:19-20)

    

9. Get a desire for the Word:   "They that gladly received his Word were baptized..." (Acts 2:41a)  Get busy living up to the WORD and all the doctrines of the CHURCH. To do this you must receive the gift of the Holy Ghost according to Acts 2:4. Then get busy working in the church. Idleness breeds loneliness and  depression.

    

10. Fellowship with the Saints:   Surround yourself with the love, strength, and protection of the saints in the Sanctuary.  (Psalm 20:2).  The worst thing to do is start skipping church and worship services when you get depressed. This in the time to live in the sanctuary so that the spirit of heaviness can be lifted.  (Isaiah 61:3b; Colossians 3:16)

     

11. Take care of your body:   Get proper rest and eat in moderation, and exercise. God want us to be healthy.                    (Jeremiah 33:6; III John 1:2)

     

12. Create a Spirit Lifter File:  Search the scriptures, or ask your pastor, for passages that speak to your need in a particular circumstance. Make a list of these scriptures so you can always go back and re-read them when you feel "down."   ( Matthew 28:20b; Psalm 42:5; I Samuel 30:6; Isaiah 43:1-3)

     

Reference source:
Spiritual growth & Maturity - Word Aflame Elective Series

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