Dear Christine,
I GREW UP always having to be responsible, always doing what others expected of me and always doing the right thing. However, now I do not even know what I want anymore. I am so depressed and I feel like I am not good enough.
On the other hand, I have people who look up to me and think that I am the problem-solver. I am the one they always run to when they need help.
There is no one who knows what goes through my mind and no person I can trust enough to talk to. I do not even know with whom I can share my feelings.
All everyone always sees is someone who is moody or lazy. The truth is, at times I do not have the will or motivation to do what I need to do for myself.
Depression is real, very real and hard to explain. How can I be so important to others but feel so useless to myself?
Please help me.
– Depressed and Useless
Dear Depressed And Useless,
While you have referred to yourself in this manner, I do not believe for one second that you are useless. You certainly appear to be depressed and you are right in saying that depression is real.
It is for that very reason that you need to see a doctor – perhaps in the first instance – who will be able to refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist, if that becomes necessary. In your case, it seems as though that could be necessary.
Depression is so real that it must be treated, most times medicinally, and with proper counselling from someone who is professionally able to walk you through the various stages, where you can get back totally on your feet again.
In addition to this, you need to see yourself as having value. Stop the low-esteem syndrome. You are so valuable to God that He sent His Son to die for you. Take time to pray – especially reading the Psalms, which are always a comfort.
I recommend Psalms 23 and 27 for starters, but please make that appointment to see your doctor and let him advise you on how best to go about getting the necessary treatment for your depression.
– CHRISTINE
