What Does the Bible Actually Say About Depression?

In Christian circles, people often make assumptions about depression if they’ve never experienced it for themselves. Discovering what the Bible actually says about depression will help you guard your heart against these assumptions.

When I started sharing with fellow Christians that I had a current struggle with postpartum depression, I received a myriad of responses. Some were supportive and shared similar struggles themselves. Others were diligent to pray for me and follow up with me regularly about how I was recovering. A few, however, seemed to have never dealt with anyone that struggled with depression or mental health in any way. I heard things such as:

“If you have more faith, God will heal you.”

“If you live life the way the Bible teaches, you will never have a hard time. You will live a good life.”

“Spend more time praying/reading your Bible. That will change everything for you.”

While I know the intentions of these brothers and sisters in Christ were honorable, the comments made were not helpful at all. Sometimes, I would spend time wallowing in their ideas, thinking I wasn’t adding up in some way. I had read the Bible enough to know, however, that they were sorely mistaken. While there are steps we can take to start to feel better, my struggles do not define my faith or the choices I’ve made.

So what does the Bible actually say about depression?

My Top 7 Bible Verses to Help Depression

• Psalm 34:18 “The LORD is near to the broken-hearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
• Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
• Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
• Colossians 3:2 “Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things.”
• 2 Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.”
• James 1:2-3 “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
• James 5:13a “Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray…”

There are so many more stories and examples in the Bible relating to depression, but I haven’t enough time or space to write them here. If you have a favorite story or verse from the Bible, please share it in the comments below. Let’s encourage each other!