Silent Souls Weeping: Depression—Sharing Stories, Finding Hope

by Jane Clayson Johnson

It’s a lie the adversary loves and certainly hopes we will buy into: that each of us must suffer in solitude. The authentic connection you make when you share your story, and feel it resonate with another’s, shatters this lie, bringing hope, comfort, and confirmation that your suffering is real and you are not alone.

A recent article in Psychology Today reports that “telling your story—while being witnessed with loving attention by others who care—may be the most powerful medicine on earth. . . .

“Every diagnosis of depression is individual, and the treatment for each person is tailored to [his or] her specific needs. Each of us has to figure it out. It took me a long time. From reading articles and papers on depression, I decided that I had enough symptoms that I probably needed a doctor to help me know what to do about it. Medication is only part of my treatment. I also know that how I manage my diet and exercise and sleep makes a huge difference.”

Sue shared one of the tools that works particularly well for her. “Another huge thing I need to do,” she says, “is make myself reach out to serve others. Service is actually one of the most important things I need to do.