Prescription for Dealing with Depression

1) Rule out medical causes, especially side effects of medication

2) Ensure spiritual condition
3) Prayer – Focused on God (who He is and all the great things

He has done) not on self

4) Take small steps of trust and obedience
5) Meditate on Scriptures of hope and encouragement

Example: Psalm 46; Psalm 42; Psalm 146:3-10; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Ephesians 3:14-21; Lamentations 3:32; Romans 8:26-28; Romans 8:31-39

6) Identify what your depression is saying and identify heart issues involved

Example: anger, fear, disappointment, loneliness, failure, guilt, unforgiveness,

worthlessness, rejection, sorrow, selfishness, pain, idolatry, hopelessness

7) Renew the mind (Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:23; Philippians 4:8)

Take your soul to task; talk to your depression rather than listening to it

Deal with heart issues from scripture

8) Deal with passivity and lack of motivation

a. increase pleasure activities

b. become involved with others, rather than isolating yourself force yourself to engage others,

especially do something good for others (serve others, get your focus off of self and focus on ministry to others)

c. list things you are thankful for

d. attack procrastination – make a short list of things you ought to be doing and do them

9) Practical Lifestyle Helps

1. sleep – make sure you are getting adequate, restful sleep

2. exercise

3. diet/nutrition – make sure you are eating regular nutritious meals

4. spiritual disciplines – Church, worship, Bible study, prayer, witnessing, serving

5. relationships – encourage good relationships – fix or end troubled relationships