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The purpose of this mini-article is to encourage creative and practical thought for those who are depressed or who feel that their lives are empty in some way. First of all, I should say that as with everything in the site, we are coming from a Christian perspective. Therefore, we are assuming that a relationship with God through Christ is an essential starting point for anyone hoping for true happiness, contentment, purpose and freedom in life. I should make it clear that I am not suggesting that the ideas contained in these comments will “cure” serious depression, or heal inner hurt. The solution to these problems can be sourced in several different points of help, including God, the span of time, more favourable environmental conditions (for example a good Church or good friends) and so on. Of course, there is not necessarily any quick fix to depression or emotional damage and hurt. However, in Christ there surely is hope. Whether we can sense this hope weakly or more significantly, we need to have faith in the fact that with God we do have hope, despite difficult circumstances. God can use many things. At times when I have been seriously down, I have gained hope, strength and inspiration from music - usually not even Christian. Often music, usually with no lyrics, has somehow lifted my soul, bringing me a sense of the closeness of God. The power of the melodies and the emotion of the music made me think of God and helped me to experience his love and presence. I felt hope, and even though my basic negative feelings soon returned and my situation had not changed, this feeling of hope was both centred on God and worthwhile. Of course, this may not work for everyone. But my point is that whatever does lift you, as long as it is not illegal or ungodly, why not enjoy that hobby or experience, or look for one if you do not have anything. Stimulate yourself. I have understood form some friends that playing video games gives them a healthy lift. The virtual reality of the gaming world brought a sense of peace, fun and reassurance. Now, don’t panic - in mentioning this I am not encouraging escapism or ignoring reality. No, realities need to be faced and solutions to problems found. I am just saying - lets not be afraid to be creative. Lets have expansive minds. As long as a place is not intrinsically ungodly or sinful, surely God can reside there with us, and surely he wants us to be there, if this helps us in some strange way to be relieved from suffering, or restored to normality. If what I am saying clicks with you, or you experience something that works to help your depression or emotional feelings, please let me know, by sending an e-mail through the testimonies section above. Perhaps your testimony may encourage and help others. A great deal could be discussed on this subject, and I am certainly no expert. My suggestions could be expanded to consider the issue of what medical treatments Christians might feel both comfortable with, and also find helpful in combating depression or negative emotions. I have already mentioned music therapy. Animal therapy, where animals or pets can have a powerful affect to restore confidence and well-being, is another interesting approach. Surely combining treatments like these with Christian ministries such as prayer for inner healing (see the link above) and counselling (see the section on the left navigation bar), can be embraced by Christians. Then there are other treatments that may be more controversial for Christians, such as perhaps acupunture. Do send your articles or testimonies in, or just send us a letter e-mail with your comments, by clicking here. |
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