Depression: When a Member of the Flock Needs Special Care
About This Class
The primary subject of this course is depression. In much of the Christian world this topic has been taboo, misunderstood and rejected out of hand. If that is your perspective, let me encourage you to take another look. In 2005 I almost lost the ministry God had gifted me for and called me to because of depression. Dr. Gregory Knopf, my medical doctor at the time treated me with skillful, tender, compassionate Christ-centered care and saved my ministry. Dr. Gary Lovejoy brings a pastoral heart to his profession and to this issue. If you are a leader in a church, this course will give you insights into people’s lives that will be productive. If you are struggling yourself with discouragement you will be encouraged and challenged.
In...
Taught by a Team
This class is taught by a team of biblical scholars and professors. Below is a list of speakers.
Gary Lovejoy
Gregory M. Knopf
Lessons
- 0% CompleteIn the first lecture of the course "Depression: When a Member of the Flock Needs Special Care," you will gain insight into what depression is, how it affects people, and what causes it, as well as learn about the difference between depression and normal sadness, and how to recognize signs of depression.0% Complete
- 0% CompleteThis lesson teaches you to view depression as a warning sign, and helps you understand the various causes and risk factors, including predisposing biological factors and neurotransmitters, for a more balanced approach to addressing and managing depression.0% Complete
- 0% CompleteIn this lesson, you learn about the spiritual aspects that influence our understanding of the heart of God, examining misconceptions and stereotypes, as well as how depression affects Christians. Through biblical examples, you gain insight into God's compassionate response to those who struggle and his desire for a relationship with his followers.0% Complete
- 0% CompleteIn this lesson, you learn about the complex nature of depression and the need for a balanced approach to treatment, considering spiritual, physical, and emotional aspects while debunking misconceptions about mental illness and prayer.0% Complete
- 0% CompleteIn this lesson you will discover the importance of adjusting the focus of our thought life as part of the process of overcoming depression. You will also learn about the importance of having an open discussion about depression in the context of a church community. And finally, two common mistakes we make often make; trying to control things we don’t have control over and not controlling things we do have control over.0% Complete
- 0% CompleteIn this lesson you will learn about the importance of dealing with anger appropriately and hear suggested strategies for doing it. This lesson also covers the importance of an accurate self-concept and how scripture informs us in this area.0% Complete
Class Resources
Recommended Books
Demystifying Depression
Feeling sad, anxious, hopeless or depressed is mystifying because there seems to be so many confusing explanations for what is causing a person to feel so bad. Instant...
A Christian's Guide To Depression & Antidepressants
This book defines depression and its' basic causes, provides the criteria for determining whether one is depressed or not, and then outlines the basic options for...
A Pastor's Guide for the Shadow of Depression (Light in the Darkness)
Pastors face unique challenges and unrealistic expectations that can lead to feelings of failure, deep sadness, and depression. Too often they feel no one understands, as if...
Strands of Light: Seeing Hope in the Fog of Depression
Having a strong Christian faith is certainly no guarantee against depression. But what if depression has a good purpose in Godâs plan? Strands of Light challenges readers...
Light on the Fringe: Finding Hope in the Darkness of Depression
"Light on the Fringe: Finding Hope in the Darkness of Depression" addresses the difficulty that many depressed Christians often have in understanding their...
