There are times in our lives that we all feel a little blue. Some more than others. We often refer this to our "blue times" of feeling depressed. The occasional depressed feelings that we feel if a good time ends or if our best friend moves away are all examples of what can produce a sense of depression in our lives.

What I am talking about now is the persistent sad, anxious or empty mood one experiences. Although I believe that God is the ultimate source of healing, He also provides efficient medical and psychological assistance. There is nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about either. If you are experiencing five or more of the following symptoms below for more than two weeks, or if the symptoms interfere with your daily routine, you may be suffering from what is known as Clinical Depression. I emphasize the "MAY BE" part:

persistent sad, anxious or empty mood;

sleeping too little or too much;

reduced or increased appetite, and/or weight change;

loss of interest in activities once enjoyed;

medically unexplained aches or pains;

restlessness or irritability;

difficulty concentrating or making decisions;

fatigue or loss of energy;

feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless;

thoughts of death or suicide.

There is a good side to this and that is it is one of the most treatable of all medical illnesses. In fact, over 80% of people with depression can be treated successfully with medication, psychotherapy or a combination of both. I am NOT a psychiatrist or psychologist, I am just a servant of the Lord who knows there are individuals out there suffering with different kinds of depression, Clinical being one. I would like to encourage you if you have five or more of these symptoms to seek good, if possible Christian help.

I would like to leave you now with these words of encouragement from the Lord Jesus Christ: