A Change in Plans

I had the opportunity to speak at our church this past weekend. I thought I'd drop some knowledge in the good people of State College, bring some hope to those who are struggling with the blues, blahs, and burnout. I experience the rollercoaster of ups and downs from time to time, and I've tried to handle things various ways. I don't know where the line is between "normal emotional swings" and official depression, but that's what I thought the Lord wanted me to speak to.

I thought it'd be easy to address this. I was wrong. There are no easy answers, no 3-step fixes to depression.

It was a pretty tough week of preparation, mainly because I came to realize that the problem is HUGE. 16% of Americans will face depression at one time or another. An estimated 19 million adult Americans will wrestle with depression this year. Twice as many women than men will have to deal with depression.

There are no easy answers. But there is hope.

I truly believe that Jesus Christ offers wholeness and healing to all people. I'm not talking about "pie in the sky by and by it'll all get better when you die" kind of hope. I mean real answers for the hurting.

If you're struggling, find someone to talk to. You might start with your doctor, a professionall counselor, your pastor, or a trusted friend. At our church, we have a group of people who meet each Monday night to work on recovery, and a prayer team that gathers to pray with people who are processing through tough stuff.

Don't let this go. Help is out there.