Treatment with antidepressant medication should continue for at least six months for first episodes, and for several years or indefinitely for recurrent episodes. Non-medical treatments such as psychotherapy or counseling should be used in the treatment of depression. A problem for Christians undergoing counseling treatment may be that many of the traditional types of counseling focus on understanding and improving the self , while Christ calls us to deny self . Christ promises His servants. Research studies have consistently shown that the best treatment results are seen with a combination of antidepressants and counseling .
Depression is a treatable, recoverable disorder.
The person suffering from depression must be persistent, and must hold on to faith, even when feelings might suggest otherwise. A frequent symptom of depression may be hopelessness , but we have reason for hope . The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease. For His compassions never fail. The Lord is my portion', says my soul, therefore I have hope in Him .