“Enough, Lord! Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors” (1 Kings 19:4). These are the words of the mighty prophet Elijah, who prior to this moment had interceded with God to call forth fire from heaven, defeat the prophets of Baal, and raise to life the widow’s son. Yet, in this moment, he experienced painful depression. He sat under a broom tree and prayed for death. If someone like Elijah can experience depression, then anyone can.
Misconceptions
Too often, people struggle with depression alone, without proper medical help, without compassion from their family or colleagues, without recognizing that they have a medical condition that is treatable, not a moral failing due to some weakness or character flaw. Two common misconceptions:
If I had more faith, I wouldn’t feel this way.
There are many examples of holy people who have struggled with depression, including St. Augustine, St. Ignatius of Loyola, and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. All human beings are vulnerable to ailments and conditions. When people get sick with the flu or develop arthritis, they do not blame it on a lack of faith. Why should it be different with clinical depression?
I should be able to do this myself, without a therapist.
One cannot simply “snap out of” clinical depression. When we have physical medical problems, we see doctors. We go to mechanics, plumbers, and electricians to help us keep our cars running and our homes in good order. Why would we not seek help with mental or emotional difficulties? There is no shame in getting treatment. In fact, the most loving thing a depressed person can do may be to seek help to become the best person—and thus the best spouse, parent, or friend—he or she can be.
Elijah’s story did not end under the broom tree. God gave him a long nap and sent an angel to give him nourishment. He ate and then journeyed forty days and nights to Mount Horeb, the “mountain of God,” to discover his mission.
From Catholic Update newsletter, “Depression: Finding Light in the Darkness” by Dr. Constance J. Salhany (C2410A). To order, visit Liguori.org or call 800-325-9521.