As Catholics and as people of faith, we have much to be joyous about in terms of living out our Catholic identity. In many ways, one may ask the question, “How can we be depressed?” It is true, that as Catholics we make a conscious decision to bare our crosses, and this is the most effective way to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, we do not live in a perfect world. We are all affected by sin in some way, shape, or form. In addition, we are human, and we suffer the effects of disease, disorders, and ailments of all kinds. Depression affects most of us at some time in our lives. Some of the time, it occurs because of a life circumstance, the death of a loved one, relationship issues, or because of mood disorders or other emotional/psychological issues. Whatever the case, it happens. There are ways to help to overcome depression through our faith listed below.
Seek professional help
Many a charismatic Catholic or religious-minded person will remind us that every depression or emotional issue can be healed through prayer or by renouncing the things of our past through deep prayer and pastoral help. This is true, but it does not work like a magic wand. Sometimes charismatic prayer and pastoral fellowship leads us to seek professional help from a counselor or therapist. God is still at work even if healing takes time. Remember that you are not a failure if your healing is not immediate. You may need the help of a professional in order to move on from the past. Oftentimes what is needed is a listening ear and care. This healing usually does not happen at a one-time charismatic prayer meeting or group. Seeking skilled professional help will help you to find the restoration you need, especially if you have been traumatized in some way in the past. A qualified psychologist, counselor, or medical doctor may be the best place to begin the journey of healing for which you are searching.
Give yourself time
We live in a world where most people want things to happen fast and immediately. Healing from wounds of the past does not take only a minute; it may take time to get over what has happened to you. Do the things in your life that are necessary each day, but do not overdo it. You need time to take care of yourself day by day. Your support system is an important facet of your healing, so let trusted people know what you are going through and be sure to slow down and do what is necessary for you to get through the challenges of your life during a crisis.
Prayer
Prayer is something we do in our time; but God has his own timing in terms of how and when things happen for us. Trust God in all that you do and pray each day. Offer prayers through the intercession of Our Lady for your healing and try to be consistent. Take your time when you pray and do your best to feel the presence of God. Pray in ways that you feel most connected with the Lord. There is no “right way” to pray, but praying the Rosary and visiting an Adoration Chapel are great ways to intercede to the Lord and to be with him. In your prayer, offer up suffering for the good of other people who are in need. When we feel depressed, praying for other people who have a worse situation than we do is a way to unite those sufferings to the Lord in prayer. Additionally, stay close to the sacraments of our faith. Go to Confession, attend Mass, and stay close to Jesus through the gifts of the Church.
Trust God
The most demanding thing to do in healing depression is to trust God in everything. When you are sad, lonely, and discouraged, it can be challenging to trust God for what will happen in the future. In your prayer, praise God for his presence and love for you, and then do your best to meditate on his care. He has taken care of you all of your life even in dark times. He will continue to do so. Continue to pray and do your best to trust him for all that will happen in your future.
These are ways to help you to overcome depression through the lens of faith. Nothing happens quickly, again, healing takes time. No matter what, God is with you. When we suffer some kind of sadness and pain, God uses all of our sufferings for the redemption of the world through the power of the cross and the Paschal Mystery. In his time, some day you will overcome depression, and you will see the glory of his light and love in a most powerful way.
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