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of psychotherapy exist. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy,
which helps individuals alter negative thought patterns
and perceptions that contribute to a negative mood, has
been shown to be effective. Essentially, changing how we
think about events can alter our emotional and behavioral
responses to the events, therefore, this technique can help
reduce our stress levels. Interpersonal Therapy, which
helps individuals address problematic relationships, is also
helpful as relationships can be one of the greatest sources
of stress in our lives.
Yet for many seeking help from a clinician or even
a minister is difficult. Depression is falsely seen as a
weakness rather than an illness. The reality, however,
is that seeking help when needed is the best decision a
person can make. Whether the aim is to improve a rela-
tionship, cope better with emotions, or overcome a trau-
matic event, seeking help is actually sign of strength—one
actively chooses to address the challenge rather than
allowing it to persist.
While African-Americans may underuse mental health
services in comparison to other ethnic groups, there’s
been an increasing receptivity to seeking professional
help among African-Americans through the years. A
greater number of minorities now provide professional
mental health services and the mental health field has
placed more emphasis on the development of cultural
competence among all counselors. Furthermore, the
church has played a key role in bridging the gap in the
African-American community. Many churches today offer
church-based counseling services.
Beyond psychotherapy, certain behavioral strategies are
helpful in addressing depression and stress symptoms.
Maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in physical exercise,
obtaining adequate sleep, practicing relaxation, and
reducing the use of alcohol or drugs are all beneficial to
one’s mental health. In addition to improving one’s time
management and organizational skills, creating time and
space for fun activities and relationships with family and
friends is also helpful.
Spiritual activities, including prayer, meditation, and
the use of scripture, can be uplifting and lower stress
symptoms. Participation in positive spiritual and religious
activities has been shown to positively contribute to a
person’s wellbeing. Using spiritual strategies, however,
does not negate the need for counseling or other forms
of treatment when necessary. Seeking assistance can be
beneficial, even for those within the faith community.
It is a misconception to think that depression is simply
due to a lack of faith or that the agony experienced
when facing challenges and trials is the result of spiritual
weakness. The book of Psalms reflects many of the psalm-
ist’s experiences with loneliness, fear, agony, grief, desper-
ation, anger, and despair. From a faith perspective, our
relationship with God does not eliminate our need for
relationships with others, nor does it reduce our need to
seek the counsel of others. Even Jesus surrounded himself
with three of his closest disciples as the agony of the cross
loomed ahead.
Treatment for depression is available. Seeking the services
of a medical doctor and mental health professional when
suffering from depression is well within the bounds of
maintaining faith in God and living out the Christian life
to its fullest—all men included.
Keny Felix, Ph.D., M.Div., LPC, NCC
is a licensed professional counselor,
ordained Christian minister and serves
as Dean of the School of Counseling
at Richmont Graduate University in
Atlanta, GA.