Depression
“I am the subject of depressions of spirit so fearful that I hope none of you ever get to such extremes of wretchedness as I go to.”
Depression can take our breath away. Our words and the words of others rarely have impact on the darkness that seems to be swallowing us. The words sound fainter and fainter. You might even experience a physical response to your depression by loosing hair, weight, and appetite, and your eyes are red with tears. Focusing on anything seems Herculean. Pretending to be strong makes you more exhausted. Friends are impatient with you. The very sight of Scripture makes you cry. This is truly a dark place, and it doesn't leave quickly like a summer thunderstorm. It feels like a cloud that hovers.
In Psalm 40 King David describes himself as one "in the pit of destruction". As a result, David cried. He cried and he cried out to God. Psalm 88 describes a man who "goes down to the pit" and is "without strength". His "companions shun him". He even feels as if God hides his face from him. Yet, he cries out to God. Scripture speaks with familiarity and in detail of the experience of depression.
Depression is common with multiple causes, and there is no remedy that works for everyone. Simply asking for help and going to counseling is a step in the right direction. We desire to listen.