[romanjames2004]

I was just wondering, What are you ideas and opinions on the effects of religion on people with depression? Feel free to include your past experiances.

Thanks'

Roman James

[romanjames2004]

I can say that religion has not helped me work out my depression. My T tthought that it would but I found to want to do better things. I actually found that spending tim eoutside on nice days and listening to music helped me get through my depressice states.

[sunflower55]

I think that opening up to our HP, (Higher Power), is important for our depression. I know that it helps me. I attend services; read different interpretations of scriptures and the Oral and Written Laws; from different perspectives; I attend studies on a semi-regular basis; and I've made a cadre of friends as a result. I've even begun learning the language of the religion of my choice. It is a very intellectual process that is stimulating and also fun!

But, the most important part of this whole process is how it lifts me spiritually. When I read something that gives me a new insight on an issue of old, it helps of course. But, when I get a better understanding on an issue that has impact on what we deal with today, (and yes, old text speak much wisdom for today, whether it's the Torah, the New Testament, the Koran or even Homer!), well, then, it's kind of like a thrill to realize that humans have struggled with these same issues for so long, and that yes, we *can* learn from what has gone on before us. We do *not* have to go one alone and re-invent the wheel. There is real guidance available for us - if we are willing to learn.

So, intellectually, socially and spiritually, I find that religion has enhanced my life experience. As a direct result, it has helped my depression lift.

Indeed, one of my main beliefs is to take care of ourselves physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually to help our depression. (Not saying medication isn't necesssary at times too!) A tall order, for sure for those dealing with depression. But, we start with one and work our way up. We have to take care of the whole self to be whole. And those four areas make the whole self. Try it!

Peace!

[stilltrying]

I was just thinking about religion and depression the other day. I made a terrible assumption that religious people must not be AS depressed as they have hope from their "higher power." Having lost my faith as a teenager...I feel like at the end of the day...I'm the one left "holding the bag". There's no one else I can ask to take my worries away or make up for my mistakes. I'm often jealous of those with faith. I also find it interesting how people with faith can elaborate about how there faith has helped them so much and why can't we others just get with the program. I feel if I went on about how I really feel about religion, I'd get my butt kicked. It seems an atheist can respect and understand someones religious beliefs, but it never goes the other way. That is depressing to me all by itself.

Originally Posted by dbkrous

I think that opening up to our HP, (Higher Power), is important for our depression. I know that it helps me. I attend services; read different interpretations of scriptures and the Oral and Written Laws; from different perspectives; I attend studies on a semi-regular basis; and I've made a cadre of friends as a result. I've even begun learning the language of the religion of my choice. It is a very intellectual process that is stimulating and also fun!

But, the most important part of this whole process is how it lifts me spiritually. When I read something that gives me a new insight on an issue of old, it helps of course. But, when I get a better understanding on an issue that has impact on what we deal with today, (and yes, old text speak much wisdom for today, whether it's the Torah, the New Testament, the Koran or even Homer!), well, then, it's kind of like a thrill to realize that humans have struggled with these same issues for so long, and that yes, we *can* learn from what has gone on before us. We do *not* have to go one alone and re-invent the wheel. There is real guidance available for us - if we are willing to learn.

So, intellectually, socially and spiritually, I find that religion has enhanced my life experience. As a direct result, it has helped my depression lift.

Indeed, one of my main beliefs is to take care of ourselves physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually to help our depression. (Not saying medication isn't necesssary at times too!) A tall order, for sure for those dealing with depression. But, we start with one and work our way up. We have to take care of the whole self to be whole. And those four areas make the whole self. Try it!

Peace!

[Rohag]

Originally Posted by stilltrying

It seems an atheist can respect and understand someones religious beliefs, but it never goes the other way.

Hello & Welcome, Stilltrying!

My observation is that there are a few – too few – 'religious' individuals who can step outside their views and attempt in good faith (pun not intended) to appreciate atheism. I am a person of faith, and I deeply regret this is so often the case.

As to the original post, for me religion has 1) worsened my depression, 2) lightened my depression, and 3) had no bearing on my depression. To explain would require a looooong essay.

[(JD)]

IMO religion itself can deepen depression if it is used or viewed incorrectly...meaning that some type of guilt is placed on the depressed person just because they are suffering with this medical disorder.

I know that there are many accounts of very wise and successful people, in the Old Testament and Torah, who spoke with God regularly (and He spoke to them) and who also became depressed. Once we realize that it can affect anyone, and then use the same pathways to recovery, then the guilt is also lessened.

I think it's key to treat depression as one would any other physical malady. That it is something that occurs, and that one can learn to live in spite of it.

Regarding "faith" which is different than religion, those who know me here know that I have for a very long time been searching for the brain connection regarding where faith "goes" after trauma. . . it also tends to waiver when depressed, but then, doesn't everything?

Peace.

[sunflower55]

Originally Posted by stilltrying

I was just thinking about religion and depression the other day. I made a terrible assumption that religious people must not be AS depressed as they have hope from their "higher power." Having lost my faith as a teenager...I feel like at the end of the day...I'm the one left "holding the bag". There's no one else I can ask to take my worries away or make up for my mistakes. I'm often jealous of those with faith. I also find it interesting how people with faith can elaborate about how there faith has helped them so much and why can't we others just get with the program. I feel if I went on about how I really feel about religion, I'd get my butt kicked. It seems an atheist can respect and understand someones religious beliefs, but it never goes the other way. That is depressing to me all by itself.

Still trying,

...and why can't we others just get with the program

I do not believe you'll find me saying that anywhere, my friend.
But, you will see that I talked about the faith of "my choice," not the faith of my upbringing. You see, I went through 17 years searching. I gave up the faith of my upbringing years ago, as a teen myself. It didn't ring true to me at all. And in that search I made, I went through years of being an atheist, and even an agnostic.

I fully understand both perspectives, and yes, respect them!

Please note too, that when I spoke of religion, I spoke only of myself. Otherwise, I spoke about "spirituality." The spirit. The Higher Power, which can be anything at all! It can be your family if that's what helps get you through the dark times. It can be your therapist; nature; an activity; whatever it is that helps you rise above the abyss.

I have no intention of ever imposing my own belief system on another. Indeed, my belief system doesn't allow for that behavior!

We are *all* children of the Universe, and as such, deserving of respect and love.
I'm sorry if there was any misunderstanding.

But, no one, not even a HP, can take away my worries or make up for my mistakes. It's on me to do that. I own my behaviors - the good ones and the bad ones. And the consequences that come with them.

By the way, have you ever read the book of Job?

Peace!

[romanjames2004]

Thanks' everyone... I was just interested... When I have my apid thought process, I like to philophisize about random things lol. This is one that I really thought about.

[Rohag]

Thanks for bringing up what really is a vast subject. It deserves attention.

[drwolfmanjack]

Hi everyone

As for me, having had depression for over 20 years, and now coming out of it, my view of religion and depression came down to how I view God. If I view him as I view my earthly father, I have a tough time, my father was a mean, violent alcholic. I've had real issues of a fatherly God. But through therapy, I'm learning what the real reason behind my depression is. And after processing thru issues(one of which is my father) I feel i'm developing a different view of God the father and my earthly father. It takes time and patience. Twenty years is a long time but you can get better if you hang in there.

[Kaelia]

I think that if one adheres to a particular religion or philosophy, that doesn't mean they are immune to depression.

Everyone has issues: work, family, different personalities, physical issues, etc. Religion/philosophies can provide coping mechanisms, but I think that once someone has really slid down in a major depression, it becomes more difficult to hold onto some of the beliefs you once held. You start to question things, and you can't always find the answers that used to seem like "no-brainers." I only say this, because I've gone through my own spiritual phases during my life (Christianity, agnostic, Buddhism, atheism). I (personally) didn't find that one particular way of thinking made depression any easier. I hope not to offend anyone, I know this can be a touchy subject.