Proverbs 13:12 tells us that a hope deferred makes the heart sick, but what this really means to us is that the pain of unfulfilled hope can cause physical nausea. Deferred hope is just one among many avenues that depression can creep in on us. Depression affects everyone and all ages, even infants; it is known as the common cold among mental disorders. It has also been called “the most widespread, serious, and costly psychiatric disease afflicting humankind today” (Collins 105). The best definition I have found sums up this emotion/illness states that “depression is a troubled state or mood that consists of several ongoing disturbances in energy levels, sleep, appetite, and the ability to concentrate…” (Sper). The nature of depression is about giving up hope. There is a strong pull to quit, it is always much easier to just give up hope and let life just run it course. We need to realize that there is hope even for that who feels that all hope is lost. “Depression creates an additional set of problems that locks our souls in a dungeon of gloom” (Sper). It is important to note that grieving is not depression. One of the main differences is feelings. When people grieve they feel sorrowful, while in depression one is ju
Geddes, John. “Depressive Disorders.” American Family Physician.
Sper, David. “Dealing with Depression.” Journal of Personality.