We often think depression only affects people who are distant, disconnected, or spiritually weak. But then we hear a story like Mother Teresa’s, who once wrote, “There is such terrible darkness within me, as if everything was dead.” And we realize that depression can affect anyone. Even the holiest, kindest, most loving people we know.

Today, more than 8% of adults and 1 in 5 teenagers are battling depression. That’s not just a statistic. That’s someone you love. Maybe it’s you.

If you’ve ever found yourself in a place where joy feels distant and hope seems impossible, this is for you.

Depression Is Real, But It Doesn’t Get the Final Word

Depression is not just sadness. It’s not just a rough week. It can be a deep, dark fog that settles in and makes even the most basic parts of life feel impossible. Some people experience it because of brain chemistry. Others because of relational pain, difficult circumstances, or even spiritual battles. The cause is complex, but the truth remains:

Your emotions are real, but they don't have to be permanent.

You are allowed to feel. God created your emotions. But you don't have to let them make permanent decisions for you. Feelings are powerful, but they change. And in the middle of it all, God is steady.

Finding Language for the Darkness

The Bible doesn't shy away from this. In Lamentations 3, Jeremiah writes:

"He has led me into darkness, shutting out all light... Though I cry and shout, he has shut out my prayers."

This is the Bible. This is real. It shows us we can bring our full despair to God. But Jeremiah doesn't stop there. A few verses later, he writes:

"Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends."

Even in the middle of darkness, he dares to hope.

Jesus Meets Us in the Pain

Romans 8 gives us a powerful picture of God’s presence in the middle of suffering. When we don’t have the words to pray, the Holy Spirit prays for us. When we can’t see a way forward, God is working for our good. And when we feel alone or unworthy or forgotten, Paul says this:

"Nothing can ever separate us from God’s love...neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow."

Your situation might feel hopeless, but with Jesus, there is always hope.

A Step Toward Healing

Depression is complex, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. But here are some practical steps you can take:

• Talk to someone. Whether it’s a counselor, a doctor, or a trusted friend, don’t carry it alone.

• Name your emotions. Use a feelings wheel or journaling to identify what you're truly feeling.

• Practice gratitude. Write down three specific things you’re thankful for each day. It doesn’t erase the pain, but it can begin to shift your perspective.

• Stay connected. Isolation intensifies depression. Reach out to others even when it feels hard.

• Spend time with God. Pray, worship, read Scripture, or just sit in silence with Him. He is not afraid of your darkness.

You Are Not Alone

If you are struggling with depression, please know this: you are not broken, you are not a failure, and you are not alone. The God who created you sees you, loves you, and is with you in the valley. And the same Jesus who conquered death offers you a hope that will never fade.

So today, you don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to take one small step. Toward help. Toward community. Toward God.

And dare to believe this: even here, even now, Jesus brings hope.

If you or someone you love are struggling with depression, visit ridgecounselingservices.org to learn more or set up a conversation.