Many Christians who struggle with depression often feel isolated and ashamed. Admitting to feelings of despair within a community of faith often leads to judgmental attitudes or well-meaning Christians who suggest that depressed people “choose joy” or “pray more.”
But what are believers with depression to do when God doesn’t ease their suffering?
Author Sarah Robinson struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts from a young age. Even after becoming a Christian at age 15, her struggle continued. She was caught in what she calls a “shameful dichotomy.” She was told that loving Jesus would make her life better. But when her depression didn’t dissipate, she felt ashamed.
Sarah reached her lowest point in college when she suffered from cutting. One night, she walked to a friend’s house and asked for help. The friend made one simple comment that opened the door to her healing: “I’m not disappointed in you.” That expression of grace helped Sarah realize that if imperfect people could offer her mercy, a perfect, loving God could also.
On our Focus on the Family Broadcast “Clinging to God Through the Pain of Depression,” Sarah Robinson is with us to help those who have depression discover how deeply God loves them.
Speaking from personal experience, Sarah shares methods that have helped her manage her mental health while encouraging those with depression to seek a holistic approach of spiritual, mental, and physical healing through the church, counselors, and doctors.
Hear our full conversation on your local radio station, online, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, via Google Podcasts, or take us with you on our free phone app.
If you’re struggling with depression, we have caring Christian counselors on staff, and it would be their privilege to offer you a free consultation. Call us, leave your name and number, and they’ll get back to you as soon as possible. The number during business hours is 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).
Before I close, I’d like to extend an invitation for you to become a special partner with us through our monthly “Friends of Focus on the Family” program. When you do, I’ll send you a copy of Sarah Robinson’s book I Love Jesus, but I Want to Die: Finding Hope in the Darkness of Depression as a way of saying thank you for touching others with the love of Christ. You’ll also receive member-exclusive benefits. To make your pledge, or for more information, click here.
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Christine Bormann says
-I really need prayer i am 76yr old with chronic depression and parkinsons I’m totally home bound and family to busy to come visit most time or take me out
I’m like Sarah Robinson i love Jesus but don’t care to live
Doctors don’t help meds not working just terribly lonely physically and I guess not enough faith to let go and let God
Just want my son to come take his mom.out
Please pray
JocelynFOTF says
-Dear, friend. We’re so sorry to hear about your situation. We’re here to support you in any way that we can. If you think it might be helpful to talk things over with a Christian counselor, please give us a call at 1-800-232-6459. We are praying for you, asking the Lord to be gracious to you in the midst of these circumstance. The Bible tells us that “the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18), and we trust this promise will encourage you. We hope you’ll get in touch with one of our counselors soon. Grace and peace to you.