I have had very bad experiences with sharing my mental illness with people in my religion, even those i considered good friends. It's not that they are bad people. But their attempts to "help" often made things worse for me. They simply do not understand what it's about: that it's an ILLNESS, just like diabetes or cancer.

You can't just pray more, or be more spiritual, or have a more positive attitude and it will go away. But so many people think it's just a matter of trying harder, getting tough with yourself, or that you need to change your attitude.

Be very careful who you tell. And if you do, maybe keep it brief, just saying something like "I struggle with depression sometimes."

Also, be careful about telling people in the congregation if you go to a therapist. Some congregation members where I go don't agree with going to a counselor for help and wisdom with mental problems. . .even though they have no problems going to a doctor for medical illnesses. They think as long as you trust in God, you should not need a counselor.

I hope for the day when we can tell people about our inner struggles and have them understand and not judge us. But the world in general has a long way to go before they really understand mental illness and how to support those who have it.