Depression and connection.

By Heather Rhodes in All Sorts

What does our faith have to say about depression?

What does our faith have to say about depression, given that the Bible
does not address the topic directly? Low mood is not an uplifting
subject and can seem self-centred in a world facing political,
environmental, social, and financial crises. Yet it is worth reflecting on,
because when we’re not in a healthy frame of mind, we are less able
to love and support others — and less able to enjoy the gift of life
ourselves. Even if you never experience low mood, you will almost
certainly know someone who does.
Most importantly, our faith tells us that Christ understands human
suffering. In the Garden of Gethsemane He said, “My soul is
overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” (Matthew 26:38). On
the cross He cried, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
(Matthew 27:46). These words reveal that Jesus fully entered into
human anguish, loneliness, and despair. Christ shared in human
suffering; we can know we are never abandoned in ours.
A great thing about living more than 2000 years after Christ is that
research often confirms biblical wisdom. Studies show that gratitude
practices can improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms.
Gratitude is one of Scripture’s clearest responses to discouragement. It
does not deny suffering or pretend everything is fine; instead, it
redirects attention toward signs of God’s goodness within hardship.
“Give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) is not a
command to ignore pain, but a reminder that grace can still be found
in difficult seasons. Philippians 4:6–7 also connects thanksgiving with
peace, teaching that bringing our worries to God with gratitude can
guard our hearts and minds. Noticing small gifts — a kind
conversation, sunlight through a window, the support of a friend —
can slowly reshape perspective over time.
Serving others also matters deeply. Galatians 5:13 urges believers to
“serve one another humbly in love,” while Proverbs 11:25 says,
“Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Acts of service can
lessen isolation and restore a sense of purpose. Research supports this
too: helping others, whether through volunteering or small acts of
kindness, often lifts the spirits and strengthens wellbeing. Service is
not a cure for depression, but it reminds us that we still have
something valuable to offer. It can give us a sense of accomplishment
and keeps us living in the way that is important to us.
Finally, there is the importance of community. Our Pākehā culture is
highly individualistic, yet the Bible presents community as essential in
times of suffering. Christians are called to “carry each other’s burdens”
(Galatians 6:2) and to “mourn with those who mourn” (Romans
12:15). Shared life does not remove pain, but it makes it more
bearable by reminding us that we are known, loved, and not alone.
I recently attended the funeral of a friend who had taken his own life.
One speaker urged us to reach out to others, because we never know
who may be struggling. That is wise advice. If we feel low, we should
practice gratitude, serve others, and remain connected to community.
Know that Christ is with us in our suffering, know things will improve,
and reach out if you need to!
Heather Rhodes (who, having written this, realises she should add: we
can be grateful that we also have medication and research about
psychology, or ‘thinking about thinking’, that can both be very helpful.
Do also reach out to your GP if you need to!).