August 24, 2025
Building Healthy Families: In addition to being overwhelmed with feelings of sadness and hopelessness, another sign of depression is distorted thinking. This may include: overgeneralizing – after one thing goes wrong, thinking, “Things NEVER go right for me;” exaggerated responsibility for others – “Why aren’t you happy? It must be because of something I did or didn’t do;” and negative self-labeling – “I didn’t get up in time to exercise today – I’m lazy and a failure.” Left unchallenged, distorted messages only deepen the despair. Depression is not a lack of faith or a character flaw, but a serious illness which when left untreated can destroy a life, a marriage and a family. It is treatable and you can feel better. See your medical doctor and remember that your pastor and Lutheran Family Service counselors, who share your faith in our God who keeps His promises, can help. Lutheran Family Service www.LutheranFamilyService.org