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Third, reclaim the pleasant events that have ceased because of the depression. In a depressed state, people stop the activities that bring them pleasure. They stop socializing with their good friends, strolling in the woods, enjoying sex with their spouse, eating their favorite foods, and so on. Remember the goodness of God's creation, and find ways to reengage in living fully.

Fourth, make an appointment with a psychologist. The most effective treatment for mild depression is a form of therapy known as cognitive therapy, and the best treatment for serious depression is a combination of medication and therapy.

Fifth, talk to your physician. It won't solve everything, but medication can help.

Here's a bit of good news: People recover from depression. Treatments are effective and widely available. A Christian colleague of mine—a dear soul who struggled with depression—used to say, "As Christians, we have no right to give up hope." There may be a time to take Prozac, and a time to give it up, but there is never a time to give up hope.

Mark R. McMinn is professor of psychology at George Fox University and author of Sin and Grace in Christian Counseling (InterVarsity Press, 2008).

Copyright © 2009 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

This article, "Light When All is Dark," and "My Life with Antidepressants" are part of Christianity Today's March cover package on "The Depression Epidemic."

Previous articles on depression and suicide include:

The Gospel According to Prozac | Can a pill do what the Holy Spirit could not? (August 1, 1995)

To Be Happy in Jesus | Are evangelical Christians really happier than their neighbors? (March 8, 2006)

Good Question: Is Suicide Unforgivable? | Question: What is the biblical hope and comfort we can offer a suicide victim's family and friends? (July 10, 2000)

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March 2009, Vol. 53, No. 3