There are seven common symptoms of depression. Notable signs include crying spells, irritability and fatigue, withdrawing from loved ones. The longer misery, sorrow and unhappiness persist, individuals lose hope that this condition state will ever improve. While declines, recessions and slumps are a common pattern within society, breaking free from depression can be exhausting as you struggle to cling to the thought of improving.
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation], Matthew 11:28.”
According to a 2015 study, 350 million of the world’s population is affected by some form of depression. Eleven percent of adolescents will develop a depressive disorder by age 18. Women are 70 percent more likely to experience depression in their lifetime than men. Over 16 million Americans have had at least one major depressive episode. Thirty percent of college students have reported feeling depressed which has disrupted their ability to function at school. Finally, the estimated cost of depression in terms of loss of productivity at work and healthcare related costs in the United States is 80 billion dollars.
Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me [following Me as My disciple], for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest (renewal, blessed quiet) for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy [to bear] and My burden is light,” Matthew 11:29-30.
If depression is this big of a deal, how can people break free? Jesus encouraged first century followers to not hide their feelings. Rather, let your emotions out by openly sharing how you feel to Jesus. Those who remain silent, keeping everything within, build up tensions as this mounts like a heavy burden growing more intense with each passing each day. Therefore, those who publicly confess their depression to God and others if available will begin to experience a comforted soul. While some may need to seek professional help or make an appointment with a pastor, the sooner action is taken, the lighter your burden will become.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 