A Christian response to depression:

 

• Keep active. A short walk each day can help, and some GPs can refer patients for exercise to help boost their mood.

 

• Make a choice not to withdraw from things that would normally bring a sense of pleasure, achievement, or closeness to others.  Face fears by meeting people at a place you can cope with.

 

• Try to keep hold of God's promises in the Bible. Even if God feels distant, he isn't — it's a feeling caused by the depression. He is present, and still cares and forgives.

 

• Re-read a personal faith diary, if you have kept one, and think back to times when you have had a sense of closeness to God.

 

• Read encouraging psalms and Bible verses. A list is available at www.feelinglikethis.com. • Keep a routine of prayer, even if this is really short.

 

• Keep some contact with your church, if you can. This may include going to smaller and quieter services, or turning up late and leaving early so that it doesn't feel too much.

 

• Pray with trusted others, even if it's just for a short time. Ask them to pray for you.

 

• Seek medical help. Ask your GP what help might be available locally.

 

• Live healthily. Fitness, food, and sleep matter, and can often be overlooked when we feel low.

 

• Say "no" to some things. Balance demands that you have space to recover.

Dr Chris Williams (summarised thanks to Rosemary Nash)