Depression – Evidence of an absence of Jesus or just chemical imbalance?

To be sorry is to have a feeling of deep distress caused by loss, disappointment, or other misfortune suffered by oneself or others.

We are sorry and depressed people. During 2011–2014, about one in eight Americans aged 12 and over reported taking antidepressants in the previous month. Antidepressant use increased with age and was twice as common among females as males.  Long-term antidepressant use was common. One-fourth of all people who took antidepressants in the past month reported having taken them for 10 years or more. Antidepressant use increased nearly 65% over a 15-year time frame, from 7.7% in 1999–2002 to 12.7% in 2011–2014. 

Is there help in the Word? “My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word.” Psalm 119:28.

 This is just one of many scriptures promising peace and joy- the antithesis of sorrow and depression in Following Jesus and reading His Word.

In 2019, 65% of Americans identified as Christians, down from 77% in 2009. As fewer of us identify as Christians and therefore are less likely to look for help in scripture, there has been an increase in looking to medicine for relief from our “sorrow” and depression. 

Is that same reduction in the number of identifying Christians also responsible for the increase in depression?  Jesus’ most common greeting was “Peace.” I see “peace” as the absence of worry or depression. Is it fair to say that the basis for the depression “epidemic” is an absence of Jesus?

Science points to chemical imbalances as causing depression and thus suggests adjustment of those imbalances chemically. As Christians, we commonly look to medicine for relief from injury, illness and the resulting pain. Should we do so when depression strikes? 

I realize I am asking more questions than I am providing answers. It’s because I have more questions than answers. We treat psychological problems differently, with less compassion, with less recognition of their reality. I just don’t know. What do you think?