8 Things Every Woman Should Know About Depression

Gary H. Lovejoy, MA, MRE, Ph.D., was a professor of psychology and a professor of religion at Mt. Hood Community College for 32 years and has had a private practice in professional counseling for more than 38 years. Part one explains the definition of depression and has checklists to help determine severity. Parts two and three shares different causes of depression and how our relationships in our childhood, our marriages, and our workplace affect our emotional health. The author defines depression as an “emotional alarm system telling you that something is wrong or damaging and needs your attention.” He suggests developing better coping skills; reach out for help, and making basic changes in their normal routines or by experimenting with new ways of responding to others. This resource has many charts and statistics which could be helpful to different users. As a discipleship coach for Search for Jesus, depression is one of the main reasons women seek help. That is why part 4 is so important to me. I believe after all is said and done about depression, the only sure cure is a relationship with Jesus. But my favorite section is Part 4: The Therapy and Theology of Hope. “A person’s spiritual life profoundly influences both the causes and the effects of depression.” I teach adult women's bible study. Even members of the church can fall victim to depression. I am thankful I have this pdf for use when talking to women in depression. The  resource will be useful with both my ministries. Lovejoy gives examples of biblical characters in the throes of depression and shows how God addressed the causes of their depression with different divine methods. Who can forget the gentle whisper of God to Elijah? Jesus shows His comfort and compassion to Mary and Martha upon the death of their brother. Jesus demonstrated His humanity when he wept. This information is needed to show women it is alright to talk to God about their problems. This resource was given to me by Hendrickson/Rose Publishing exchange for a fair and honest review.