Video link: BREAKING FREE FROM DEPRESSION - SESSION 4
‘BREAKING FREE FROM DEPRESSION’
SESSION 4: RECOGNIZE THE WARNING SIGNS AND TAKE ACTION
The person tormented by depression may experience at least three or four of the following symptoms nearly every day for two weeks or more:
- Feeling sad, miserable, or empty
- Loss of interest or pleasure in almost all activities
- Significant increase or decrease in appetite
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Sluggishness
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Reduced ability to think or make decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Understanding these roots is not about assigning blame but about identifying pathways to healing.
What should you do then:
1. PAY ATTENTION TO PERSISTENT CHANGES
Do not ignore persistent changes in mood, sleep, appetite, energy, interest in activities, thinking, and relationships.
When these difficulties persist and interfere with daily functioning, it is important to seek appropriate help.
2. DON'T ISOLATE YOURSELF
Depression can make people withdraw from others. But isolation can deepen the struggle. Connect with trusted friends, family, counselors, and medical professionals.
3. TALK TO SOMEONE
There is power in saying: “I am not okay. I need help.” Find someone trustworthy. Tell them what you are experiencing.
Do not wait until the situation becomes unbearable.
4. SUICIDAL THOUGHTS REQUIRE IMMEDIATE HELP
If someone is experiencing thoughts of suicide or death, they should not remain alone or attempt to handle it alone. Such thoughts indicate the need for immediate help from someone else.
5. ASK FOR PRAYER
The Bible teaches us to carry one another's burdens. Ask people you trust to pray specifically for you.
Prayer is powerful—but seeking medical or mental-health assistance is not a rejection of faith. God can work through prayer, Scripture, supportive relationships, pastors, counselors, doctors, and other qualified professionals.
Dr Lawi Mshana, +255712924234, Tanzania
