The Benefits of Depression – Yes I Did Say Benefits!
Strange as it may sound, some of the most significant spiritual experiences and learnings I have had in my life came about as a direct result of serious depressions. One day, when I was struggling with my first depressive episode, I found myself tossing and turning in emotional agony on my bed. With no warning, I had a visitation from a celestial being. My mind was racing along with a wide array of negative thoughts about myself and my condition; tears of frustration were
You Are Not Your Depression
Your depression can serve as a gateway to strong spiritual growth and change in your life. Depression can ultimately lead to a search for higher meaning. Creative expansion, spiritual depth and increased emotional sensitivity often entail a journey through fear and pain on the way to genuine growth. The terror and discomfort may feel like you’re going backwards and that you will be stuck in this state forever. But it is generally temporary and the growth, on the other hand, i
The Writer and Depression
“Depression is more likely to occur in people who have a larger measure of life’s gifts, who tend to be more sensitive, more driven, more intelligent, more empathetic. And these very attributes are part of the vulnerability. They feel life more acutely.” - Dr. Frederick Goodwin, Former Director of the National Institutes of Health As Scott Peck says in the opening line of his book, The Road Less Traveled, “Life is difficult.” And it seems, much of the time, it is even more so
Five "Mind Traps" To Watch Out For When You're Depressed
Over the years, I have identified ten core thoughts that always pass through my mind as I build up to a full blown clinical depression. As the depression deepens, the thoughts become more all consuming until finally, they define my mental condition completely. The first five, with some affirmations to try, are: Mind Trap One: The real reason I’m depressed is my circumstances. When I get my act together again and once these problems are behind me, I’ll feel better. Just about
Depression and Cutting Yourself Some Slack – Three More Mind Traps
Mind Trap Six: I have lost the best part of myself – even my humor is gone. You may not be the life of the party at the moment, but you are also probably not as brittle or unpleasant to be around as you might think. You are supersensitive at the moment, but not everybody is noticing your every move as you might think. Sure, it feels horrible to lose your zest for life and your sense of joy, but bleakness is a symptom of this illness. You will laugh again, but don’t try to pus
Some Thoughts on God and Depression...Two More Mind Traps
Mind Trap Nine: How can I be suffering like this if there is a merciful God? Why is the world such a horrible place if God exists? Your depression is not punishment for your shortcomings or proof that God is not there for you. Just because you’re in a dark room right now does not mean there is no light right outside the door. Continue to pray even though it feels like there is no one to hear. Even if you feel like your connection with God is gone, God will understand – above
Your Mind Isn't Always Your Friend
During a depression, your ego mind (the part of you that thrives on fear, guilt, and shame) does not want to hear a positive message. It is much happier telling you how awful your condition is, how wrong you are, how hopeless you are, and how nothing will ever change. Do not trust the messages your mind is delivering! This is why interjecting and gently reinforcing another viewpoint in the midst of a depression can really help – why affirmations, prayer, meditation and spi
The Reluctant Expert
Over the last twenty years, I have become a very reluctant expert on the topic of depression. Given the multiple numbers of debilitating depressions I have endured and the severity and depth of despair I have experienced, I consider myself to be a testament to the power of modern medicine, a supportive community, and a strong spiritual practice. In many instances, when you are a state of depression your body is chemically sick and out of balance, but also your mind is playin
