If we rearrange the letters in the word "depression" we can create the phrase "I pressed on", and we can write a parallel story of perseverance in our personal experiences with depression. Depression can feel like a heavy fog that clouds our minds and hearts, obscuring the light of hope and joy. However, within this darkness we can find a way forward. Although it may sometimes feel impossible, we can forge a path toward hope and healing.
This post combines research insights and spiritual wisdom along with personal stories of well-known individuals who have openly discussed their battles with depression. Their experiences demonstrate that depression can be managed and does not have to define who we are.
The Nature of Depression
According to the World Health Organization (2020), depression is a prevalent mental health disorder marked by persistent sadness and a lack of interest in activities once enjoyed. This condition impacts over 264 million people of all ages around the globe.
Depression can vary significantly in severity and duration. For many, it has sometimes interrupted daily life, affected relationships, work, and overall well-being. The National Institute of Mental Health (2021) warns that untreated depression can lead to complications, such as anxiety disorders or substance abuse.
Understanding depression as a medical condition rather than a personal flaw is vital for healing. By acknowledging its medical nature, we can take our first steps toward an understand that can foster recovery.
You Are Not Alone: Stories of Hope
Many public figures have openly shared their struggles with depression, shedding light on this often-stigmatized topic. Just a few of the many are, Michael Phelps, Charles Spurgeon, C.S. Lewis and John Piper.
Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all-time, reveals in his memoir Beneath The Surface that he grappled with intense feelings of inadequacy and with clinical depression (Phelps, 2020). Phelps tells that the pressure of his many accolades left him feeling isolated and overwhelmed and that, behind the mask of "winner" he was a man cloaked in the darkness of depression. His experience demonstrates that depression does not discriminate, it can affect anyone, and we can never know from what we see outwardly what a person is going through inwardly. Â
Famed preacher Charles Spurgeon was open about his own battles with depression, demonstrating that vulnerability can exist alongside influence. In his article "The Minister's Fainting Fits", Charles Spurgeon candidly shares his personal struggles with depression, illustrating the profound emotional toll it took on him. He emphasizes that even the most dedicated servants of God are not immune to feelings of despair and weakness. Spurgeon encourages all people to acknowledge their struggles and seek support, highlighting that vulnerability can lead to deeper connections with others. Through his own experiences, he offers a message of hope, reminding readers that faith can coexist with moments of profound sadness.Â
C.S. Lewis, a renowned Christian thinker, also spoke candidly about experiencing dark times. He articulated that mental pain often feels more isolating and intense than physical suffering, as it can linger and affect one's perception of reality. In his book, "A Grief Observed", Lewis emphasized that confronting the sources of our anguish is not only necessary but can also serve as a catalyst for personal growth. By facing these challenges head-on, individuals can cultivate resilience and a deeper understanding of themselves, ultimately allowing the pain to diminish over time. This journey through suffering, according to Lewis, can lead to a strengthened character and a renewed sense of hope.Â
American Baptist theologian and pastor John Piper's journey through depression has been a testament to resilience and faith. In his book, "When the Darkness Will Not Lift: Doing What We Can While We Wait for God and Joy", he emphasizes that during the darkest moments, it is essential to focus on small, manageable actions rather than the overwhelming weight of despair. By committing to "just keep doing the next right thing," individuals can find a sense of purpose and direction, even when hope feels distant. He shares how opening up about his struggles not only lightened his own burden but also encouraged others to confront their own vulnerabilities. This sharing fosters a deeper connection among individuals, creating a supportive environment where hope can flourish. Piper believes that through these shared experiences, we can support and encourage one another while we endure the darkness and wait for it to lift.
These stories validate our experiences, reminding us that we are not alone. More importantly, they remind us that depression can affect anyone and that we never know what a person is struggling with. These personal stories also show us that the journey of hope often begins in our darkest moments and it can yield personal growth and strengthened character.
Practical Steps Towards Healing
Seek Professional Help: The journey of successfully managing depression often requires professional help. Therapy, medication, and/or support groups provide necessary tools for recovery. For example, studies show that about 75% of individuals treated with Cognitive Behavior Therapy see significant improvement in their symptoms.
Build a Support Network: Creating a circle of supportive friends and family is crucial. Sharing our experiences reduces isolation and fosters deeper connections. Research suggests that social support can enhance the healing process.
Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Exercise has been shown to alleviate symptoms of depression. According to Harvard Health Publishing (2020), regular physical activity can increase the production of endorphins, leading to better mood and energy levels.
Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing and meditating on scripture, help manage stress and anxiety. Practicing mindfulness can ground us and enhance emotional strength. For help with Mindfulness techniques, check out our videos, here: https://www..online/videos
Embrace Spiritual Practices: For many, prayer and scripture reading provide comfort and a sense of belonging. Activities related to faith can help cultivate purpose.
Create a Routine: Establishing a daily structure can restore a sense of normalcy. A balanced schedule that includes work, rest, and leisure makes the days more manageable.
Practice self-compassion: It is vital on the path through depression. Healing is rarely linear; it involves ups and downs. Treating ourselves with care during tough moments is essential.
Finding Joy and Purpose: It's a Journey
Even with the challenges depression presents, rediscovering joy and purpose is possible. Engaging in activities that lift our moods, even if only slightly, can begin to build the experience of positive emotion and lead to igniting passion and fulfillment.
It may feel impossible to do the things you used to enjoy and it is important to be patient with yourself and set microgoals, very small tasks, as you seek to resume them. For example, if you used to enjoy a brisk walk but can not longer find motivation to do it, take baby steps in resuming. For example, on the days and times you used to walk, dress for walking and sit outside for the amount of time you would have walked. While you are sitting, practice mindfulness by journaling, listening to music, working on scripture memorization, or reading something up-lifting. Do this until it become habit and then take the next step, maybe reduce the time sitting in mindfulness and add walking one block. Do that until it becomes habit and then take the next step. Celebrating small victories can transform focus from negativity to gratitude, paving the way for a more hopeful outlook. Over time, you can reclaim your joy!
"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." (1 Peter 5:10)
Reflections on Depression
Though depression is a challenging condition, it is essential to remember that it is manageable. Stories of individuals like Michael Phelps, Charles Spurgeon, and C.S. Lewis highlight the fact that many have emerged from such struggles stronger, finding strength and hope born of their journey with depression.
A favorite quote of mine, speaks deeply to this idea, "It is in the quiet crucible of your personal, private suffering that your noblest dreams are born and God's greatest gifts are given, in compensation for what you've been through". Wintley Phipps
The Lagniappe
"Trust In You", by Lauren Daigle
...also, Lauren Daigle's "Hold On To Me"
References
Harvard Health Publishing. (2020). The Benefits of Exercise for Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/exercise-and-fitness/the-benefits-of-exercise-for-mental-health
Lewis, C. S. (1961). A Grief Observed. London: Faber & Faber.
National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2021). What is Depression? Retrieved from
National Institute of Mental Health. (2025). Depression. Retrieved from
Phelps, M. (2020). Beneath The Surface: My Story. New York: Penguin Press.
Piper, J. (2006). When the darkness will not lift: Doing what we can while we wait for God and joy. Crossway.
Spurgeon, C. H. (mid to late 1800s). The minister's fainting fits. Retrieved from https://seminary.bju.edu/files/2024/02/CH-Spurgeon-and-the-Ministers-Fainting-Fits-CoRE-2024.pdf
World Health Organization. (2020). Depression. Retrieved from