Stage 4 of the Grief Journey - Depression

Suddenly it happens. Depression! The moment or period of time when all the sadness the loss has caused comes rushing at you without any filters. You become acutely aware of the permanence of the situation.

Even depression plays an essential role and provides an opportunity. Really? Yes! Depression slows  down the body and prevents major organ systems from being damaged because it forces us to regroup – physically, cognitively, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. It provides time for healing and reordering life.
Take advantage of this slowdown and see it as an opportunity to do things that will contribute to long-term healing.

• Pray - honest cries from the heart.
• Read the Psalms. My nephew did this for three long years, day after day, night after night.  Sometimes he could only read a part of a verse of a psalm before he had to close his eyes and rest.  But he says that those thoughts brought him comfort and hope.
• Listen to a playlist of Christian songs about hope and God’s love
• Talk with family and friends. Don't close yourself off completely.
• Take part in activities that may make you feel better and that you used to enjoy. Even if you don’t feel like doing them, do them by faith. But only in small amounts.
• Engage in mild exercise.
• Look for a small task each day that you can manage.  When that becomes easy, look for two small tasks. Always be realistic about what you can do.