Welcome!
Today, we’re talking about depression.
We’ve all had times when we’ve been down about something in life, such as a lost job opportunity, a relationship problem, or a personal failure. But would you believe that nearly one third of Americans have been clinically diagnosed with CHRONIC DEPRESSION?
According to research by the Gallup Organization, “The percentage of U.S. adults who report having been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lifetime has reached 29.0%, nearly 10 percentage points higher than in 2015.” (Witters, Dan. “U.S. Depression Rates Reach New Highs.” Gallup.com, 17 May 2023, news.gallup.com/poll/505745/depression-rates-reach-new-highs.aspx) That’s a shockingly high number!
So, why are so many people depressed today? After all, Americans have more material wealth, career opportunities, and personal liberties than any society in history.
Ultimately, our society lacks satisfaction because it has forgotten God. As Augustine once prayed centuries ago, “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you”
And how else should believers think about depression? We’ll discuss that another time.
For additional resources, go to www.hopetools.net. Stay bold!
Carl Kerby is the founder of Reasons for Hope and co-creator of the DeBunked apologetic video series. His radio feature, Fast Facts, is heard weekly on VCY America, Saturdays at 9:25 AM Central.
