Helping Those Who Are Struggling With Depression Breakout Session

I. Definition of Depression Depression is a debilitating mood, feeling, or attitude of hopelessness which becomes a person’s reason for not handling the most important issues of life.

I. Definition of Depression Questions to ask: - Is the counselee handling life Biblically? - Have they stopped functioning because of bad feelings? - Are they immobile in some significant area of life?

II. Depression – physical vs. spiritual a. There are bodily diseases which can produce depression-like symptoms b. There is no proof that chemical imbalances cause depression

II. Depression – physical vs. spiritual c. Depression itself can produce physical symptoms d. In general, the most Biblical approach is to address the physical difficulties as symptoms of the problem, not necessarily as the problem itself.

II. Depression – physical vs. spiritual e. Medical treatments do not always provide the best or only answers.

III. Causes of Depression a.There are external factors that contribute toward depression - Other people - The curse on creation - Bodily changes or maladies

III. Causes of Depression - Misery in our work - The reality of death - The schemes of Satan

III. Causes of Depression b. Limited role of these factors - These external factors are usually necessary for depression to occur, but they are not sufficient to cause depression

IV. The role of interpretation in depression a. The downward spiral of depression b. The role of worship

IV. The role of interpretation in depression c. The depravity of the heart - Pride - Independence - Coveting

V. Addressing Depression a. Address the motivation of the heart We need to ask heart questions, avoiding trying to merely change behavior.

V. Addressing Depression b. Change the way you think - God has provided answers to human problems, including the problem of depression - There is hope for every Christian

V. Addressing Depression - We need an altered view of trials - We need to think differently about feelings - Every person must discipline his thoughts

V. Addressing Depression c. Change the way you speak - Cry out to God - Express thanks and avoid complaining

V. Addressing Depression d. Change the way you act - Repent from any known sin associated with your depression - Obey despite your feelings - Use a schedule and set goals

V. Addressing Depression - Employ Scripture memory - Seek accountability and fellowship - Serve God and others