Understanding Depression
Depression is one of the most painful and widespread afflictions known to humanity. It is complex—difficult to define, recognize, and treat. The dictionary describes it as a condition marked by feelings of hopelessness, inadequacy, sadness, dejection, and difficulty concentrating or taking action.
Those experiencing depression often struggle with:
  • A negative self-image
  • Guilt and shame
  • Self-criticism and self-pity
  • Emotional numbness or deep sorrow
  • Inactivity and isolation
As a Group Leader, your goal is to gently offer hope. Be patient—depression rarely resolves quickly, and simplistic answers are unhelpful. Many individuals require long-term support, including professional counseling and spiritual care.
Practical Ministry Guidance
Be a good listener. Avoid probing too deeply or offering quick fixes. Ask thoughtful questions and wait for something meaningful to emerge in the conversation—something that may provide an open door for spiritual encouragement.
People may experience depression due to many different causes. Below are several common situations and how you can lovingly respond:
1. Depression Rooted in Life Circumstances
Examples:
  • Loss of a loved one
  • Rebellious child
  • Divorce or separation
  • Unemployment or financial hardship
What to do:
  • Offer words of comfort: “You are not alone.” “God sees your pain and walks with you.”
  • Remind them that Christ not only bore our sins but also carried our sorrows (Isaiah 53:4–5).
  • Encourage renewed commitment to Bible study and prayer (Proverbs 3:5–6; Isaiah 26:3).
  • Promote faithfulness in worship and church involvement to restore a sense of spiritual rhythm and community.
2. Depression Tied to Spiritual Disobedience or Unresolved Sin
Examples:
  • Bitterness or unforgiveness
  • Immorality or hidden sin
  • Jealousy or unresolved anger
What to do:
  • Gently affirm that seeking help is the right step.
  • Emphasize that spiritual renewal is the path to healing.
  • Encourage a serious recommitment to scripture meditation and heart transformation (Romans 12:2; Philippians 4:8).
  • Recommend pastoral or professional counseling to bring the issue fully into the light and find lasting resolution.
  • Suggest being open with your Community Group where they can find encouragement, accountability, and hope.
3. Depression Caused by Unrealistic Standards or Goals
Some people become depressed when they fail to meet self-imposed goals—whether financial, personal, or spiritual. They may compare themselves to others and feel like failures.
What to do:
  • Help them reframe success through God’s perspective, not the world’s.
  • Share the truth of 1 Corinthians 15:10: “But by the grace of God I am what I am.”
  • Remind them that each person has different gifts and limitations, and God calls us to faithfulness, not perfection.
  • Warn against comparison, which Scripture says is unwise (2 Corinthians 10:12).
  • Encourage them to realign their priorities in a way that fits their God-given abilities and season of life.
  • If appropriate, suggest ongoing counseling to help sort through unrealistic pressures and expectations.
Encouraging Action Toward Healing
  • Reaffirm that they are not alone—and that God is both compassionate and near to the brokenhearted.
  • Encourage participation in church activities and your small group.
  • Recommend they cultivate supportive friendships with others who will walk with them.
  • If symptoms are severe or persistent, connect them with the Pleasant Valley Counseling Ministry for help and/or outside referral to a professional.
  • Be willing to follow up and walk with them for the long haul.
Scripture for Encouragement and Healing

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
—Proverbs 3:5–6

“A man’s spirit sustains him in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?”
—Proverbs 18:14 (NIV)

“Surely He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows… by His wounds we are healed.”
—Isaiah 53:4–5 (NIV)

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair…”
—2 Corinthians 4:8–9

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me…”
—Galatians 2:20
Other Suggested Scriptures:
  • Psalm 38:1–4, 21–22
  • Romans 12:2
  • Philippians 4:6–8
  • Psalm 34:18
Depression is real—and healing takes time. God is not distant from our darkness. In Christ, there is always hope, even in our lowest valley. Offer presence, prayer, and truth. Then walk with them patiently toward the healing only Jesus can provide.