Teen Depression-Why? What Can Help?

CARE FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY

Moderate to severe depression is usually managed with medication and counseling by a mental-health professional.  Jesus Christ said:  "Those who are strong do not need a physician, but those who are ill do." (Mark 2:17)  And illness can affect any part of our body, including our brain!  Lifestyle changes may also be advisable  because our mind and body are closely connected. 

If you suffer from depression, take reasonable measure to care for your physical and mental health.  For instance, eat wholesome meals, get sufficient sleep, and exercise regularly.  Exercise releases chemical that can lift your mood, increase your energy, and improve your sleep. If possible, try to recognize triggers and early warning signs of a depressive mood and create a suitable plan of action. Confide in someone you trust.  A supportive network of close family members and friends may help you to cope more effectively with your depression, possibly reducing symptoms. Record your thoughts and feelings in a  journal-a practice that helped Julia, quoted earlier. Above all, be sure to address your spiritual need. This can generally improve your outlook on life. Jesus Christ said:  "Happy are those conscious of their spiritual need." -Matthew 5:3. 

Both Anna and Julia attest to Jesus' words. Anna says:  "Spiritual activities  make me focus on other people, not just on my own problems. That isn't always  easy, but I am much happier as a result." Julia finds comfort in prayer and Bible reading.  "Pouring out my heart to God in prayer calms me," she says.  "And the bible helps me to see that  I am valuable in God's eyes and that he really cares about me. Bible reading also gives me a positive view of the future.

As our Creator, Jehovah God fully understands how our upbringing, experiences in life, and genetic makeup influence our outlook and emotions.  He is therefore able to supply needed support and comfort, perhaps doing so through compassionate and understand fellow humans. Moreover, the time will come when God will heal us of all our illnesses, physical or mental.  "No resident will say 'I am sick,' says Isaiah 33:24.

Yes, the Bible promises that God "will wipe out every tear from [our] eyes, and death  will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore." (Revelation 21:) How comforting and reassuring that is!  If you would like to learn more about God's purpose for mankind and the earth, please visit us at jw.org. There you will find an excellent online Bible, as well as articles on a broad range of topics, including depression. 

Next time:  Teen Depression-Why? What Can Help? -What Parents Can Do

From the jw.org publications