I normally experience small bouts of it at winter’s onset. SAD or seasonal affective disorder. While not classified a major mood disorder, it’s “a specifier of major depression.”
SAD was first described and named by Norman Rosenthal and his colleagues at the National Institute of Mental Health in 1984. Other names include winter blues, summer depression and seasonal depression. Symptoms include oversleeping, overeating, difficulty waking up, lack of energy, trouble concentrating as well as withdrawing from friends, family and social activities-all of which can lead to depression.
SAD and other types of depression can result from medical, self-inflicted, circumstance related or Satan instigated sources. While we may not initially know the cause, it’s important to consult the proper source when we’ve determined we’re depressed.
David’s depression was circumstance related and Satan instigated. God anointed him as Israel’s king, but prior to assuming the role he faced jealousy and life-threatening tactics from the sitting king. He found himself running for his life and cowering in wilderness caves. When his depression became unbearable, he approached the right source. I lift my hands to you in prayer. I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain. Come quickly, LORD, and answer me, for my depression deepens (Psalm 143:6-7 NLT).
God is our ultimate emotional healer when we’re depressed. Our efforts toward restored health should include praying for guidance, searching God’s Word for comfort, socializing with those holding common beliefs and confiding in trustworthy Christian acquaintances. When God directs-and when our condition warrants, it may also involve visiting a doctor for medicine to cope with the symptoms so we can function and/or scheduling regular visits with a Christian counselor. Let God direct you to the proper steps so healing can occur.
Prayer: Thank You Lord Jesus for being our ultimate healer-physically, spiritually and emotionally.
No comments:
Post a Comment