Symptoms of Depression
conquering thoughts of harm
by Jamal Ross
There are moments in our lives that tip us over the edge into a valley of depression. It is usually not one event but an accumulation of insults, setbacks, and losses that causes someone to become weary and discouraged. They may tempt us to isolate ourselves and devalue life. We may think passive thoughts of not wanting to live. Let us find out more about another symptom of depression: thought or harm and not wanting to live. Most importantly, we will discover what the bible says about our future.
One of the most infamous symptoms of depression is having thoughts of harming oneself or others. The DSM-5 refers to this as suicidal ideation, or passive thoughts of harming oneself. (1) These passive thoughts can lead progressively to verbal expressions or actions of harm. In the war against depression, these thoughts of death or lack of desire to live may come early in the battle as the enemy of your soul raises the stakes, attempting to cancel your joyful, accomplishment-filled future with a single, quick strike. Whenever such thoughts arise, it is apparent you have entered a thought pattern that is not of God. It is important to shut the door on these thoughts immediately. Recognize the voice of the enemy and reject it! Importantly, remember your days will get better. You will not always remain in this low and dark place. One of the greatest lies of the enemy is that your pain will last forever, but it will not! Remember, weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning (Psalm 30:5)
Whenever you begin to speak death to yourself, speak life and call your future into existence as if it is already here (Romans 4:17). Through Jesus, you are powerful, valuable, and forgiven. Walk in this new life and cast away every argument or thought that says otherwise (2 Corinthians 10:5). Take hold of a spirit of expectation and you will feel your hope rise again. God has more for you than you can every imagine. Just hope and believe!
Depression Series
REFERENCES
1. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.)
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