Depression

I’ve heard a lot of news all over the world about those youth or young ones who died because of Depression, most of these are suicidal rates.

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because he cares for you.”

1 Peter 1:7

According to calyouth.org, one of the top 10 common challenges our youth is now facing is DEPRESSION. Depression is incredibly common amongst children, adolescents, and adults.

There are several symptoms and signs of depression. Symptoms of depression are unique from person to person. Common feelings and symptoms are apathy, physical pain, difficulty concentrating, difficulty making decisions, loss of interest in food or compulsive overeating, anxiety, feelings of hopelessness, and withdrawal from friends and family.

Nowadays, Depression is one of the reasons why many decided to end their lives. At first, I thought this is just a minor topic since anyone around me can say that they are depressed due to hectic schedules, family problems, work, studies, finances, and personal matters. Many records of youth and same as my age, 23, are reported to be depressed from time to time. I honestly can’t believe how and why these things happened to them.

STRESS and DEPRESS are different from each other. Stress is a normal part of life. A little bit of stress is beneficial and motivating and it is not a mental health condition. It tends to have an obvious trigger, like a move, divorce, or illness. Stress typically resolves as life events change.

However, stress can lead to mental health problems like anxiety and depression if it persists over long periods without relief while Depression is a mental health condition that requires a medical diagnosis. While stress is related to life events, depression can happen even if everything in life seems fine – and it can last for years. Fortunately, Depression can be treated. (apibhs.com)

“Each morning we are born again. What we do today is matters most” – Buddha

I understand that each one of us, no matter how old or young you are, no matter how rich you are, whether you are a man or a woman of God, and no matter where you lived right now, is facing different challenges in life. That can turn out sometimes, into depression.

But I just want you to know that in every battle you have, you are not alone and will never be. You don’t need to isolate yourself from your family and friends and your love once, you just don’t know how they miss every single moment with you.

You don’t need to look down and pity yourself, you just need to look up and see how God’s loving hand is willing to reach you out no matter how you turn away from him.

They say are God is like a mirror, when you smile at Him, He’ll smile back at you but when you turn away from him, that’s the only thing that He cannot do, He cannot leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)

I am not an expert when it comes to this matter but I personally want to tell you that God gave you yourself to be your best friend and not your worst enemy. I cannot help you and be with you by now, you may be alone in your room reading and communicating to me through this but let me tell you that there’s no mistake why God allows you to be you. You are just a wonderful piece of art that no one, even me, cannot buy and replicate.

“I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well” Psalm 138:14

Do not ever think that you cannot do something, you are actually enough to achieve a lot especially today. The very first thing that you just need to do is to smile… and pray… do not think that Jesus will not hear you because even the most silent prayer you have is well listened to by Him.

Stand up now and do some exercise, Physical activity releases endorphins, the feel-good chemicals in the brain. Endorphins also improve your ability to sleep, which in turn reduces stress.

Laugh, you are the most beautiful person every time you laugh.

Try and learn something new, Setting a goal of learning a new language or hobby helps build confidence.

Avoid alcohol and drugs – Many people use alcohol or drugs to find temporary relief from stress. But, in the long term, they’ll only make your problems worse.

Volunteer – Helping others in need through volunteering or community work can help put your problems in perspective. The more you give, the less stressed you’ll feel.

Use breathing exercises – Deep breathing increases the supply of oxygen to the brain and triggers the body’s relaxation response, which promotes a state of calmness. And one my tested way is to meditate, meditation allows you to focus your thoughts and calm the stream of jumbled worries clouding your mind and causing stress. If you’re a beginner, there are many apps that offer guided meditations. (apibhs.com)

I know that this will not be an easy journey but please do not forget and think that you are alone, let yourself be your first best friend and look within your heart, look around you and do not forget that they are blessed to have you in their lives, and look up and see that He is 24/7 available to talk, laugh, cry, and answer your prayers.

May God bless you and I know that you can do it.

References

https://calyouth.org/cycl/top-10-call-topics/

https://apibhs.com/2019/04/26/what-is-the-difference-between-stress-and-depression

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