Hello downsolong. The rules are in place here to keep this community safe for all members here. Discussions about such subjects often lead to debate and even the smallest altercations alienate a lot of members here very quickly and make them shy away from posting. It is a decision the creator of this board has made to make rules away from those topics so that the people who find them triggering can have a safe community here.

That does not mean that religion cannot be mentioned. Prayers and inspirational ideas are welcomed here as they are often very helpful and are an important part of many people's recovery.

Discussions about how religion "should" fit into a recovery plan are taboo, discussions comparing different religions are taboo, and of course criticisms about religion or judgements against people who are not religious, these are taboo.

Politics is a hot topic in any arena, and in general doesn't come into play with regard to depression or mental illness and so it is highly discouraged here. I don't know how politics effects your depression but if it involves candidates or national policy I don't think it would be safe to discuss here, and I am sorry about that.

There are other forums on the internet for depression and other mental illnesses that don't have the same restrictions that we do here. Of course there are also many many many forums that discuss politics or religion on their own. Most of the depression forums I have been to I have found offputting because of the atmosphere at those places, not strictly because of discussion of religion or politics but because of the general atmosphere, and the rules or lack thereof are an important factor in establishing that environment. However maybe one of those websites will be a better "fit" for you.

I can say that the people, atmosphere, and sense of community here are excellent resources for dealing with depression. If you cannot find a complete support solution without being able to discuss religion or politics then maybe you can find some other sources of support to help with those issues and can continue to take advantage of the people and support offered here for other issues and questions about depression.

Regardless, I hope you are able to find the help and support that you need, wherever that may be. There are lots of different avenues of support available, and if this place does not partially or fully meet your needs I am sure you can find help to discuss and alleviate your depression.