Counsels on Mental Health

Counsel #1 — Depression Overview

Picture: Counsel #1 — Depression Overview CMH 43.1

Everyone has periods of gloominess, sadness, or inability to cope with difficult challenges. If intense sadness persists for many weeks or months, if it interferes with your normal living or results in thoughts of self-harm, you may have major or clinical depression. This is a medical condition and can be treated with therapy and in some cases, medication. There is also postpartum depression and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which should be addressed by a medical care provider. CMH 43.2

Today we will begin exploring the more general and widespread “short-term” or “situational” depression, which could be a result of relationship loss, death of someone close to you, life change—such as a new job, moving, or marriage, conflicts, isolation, illness, and other factors.^[41] CMH 43.3

“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God!” Psalms 42:11 NLT CMH 43.4

"Nothing tends more to promote health of body and of soul than does a spirit of gratitude and praise. It is a positive duty to resist melancholy, discontented thoughts and feelings—as much a duty as it is to pray." Ellen G. White in The Ministry of Healing, p. 251.3 CMH 43.5

Reflect: What are some practical and positive choices you make to overcome sadness and depression? CMH 43.6