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About Paul Dean

Dr. Paul J. Dean is the pastor of Providence Baptist Church in Greer, SC, and hosts a daily, live, call-in radio talk show: "Calling for Truth." He serves as the Director of Applied Ministry at the Greenville, SC extension of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is also a Regional Mentor with the International Association of Biblical Counselors. Paul speaks at several conferences throughout the year and provides training for ministers and churches on a regular basis. He is married and has three children.

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Paul Dean

Pastor, Counselor, Professor, Columnist and Radio Talk Show Host

Friday, November 14, 2008

Study Finds Link Between Faith and Depression

USA Today: “A study released by Temple University found that people who feel close to a higher power and pray often are more likely to be depressed”

 

Questions: does religion cause depression? If not what does? Must we merely cope with depression? How can we overcome depression?


Listen today at 1:00 Eastern Time.

www.callingfortruth.org

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Most Recent User Comments
defiepilex
11/18/2008 5:39 PM
I found this blog when googling for the study itself.


I think the link lies in the fact that depressed people are searching for a reason to continue. Hope and faith in the supernatural, a realm outside of their depressors reach, give them a reassurance that they there is such a reason.

Fellowship also plays a major part in the ties between depression and religion. Someone who is depressed may be looking for physical reassurance that they are needed, wanted, and loved. While these are some of the greater qualities of religion, we don't need a metaphysical relationship to establish our importance in the world.

I think most non-theists live their lives with a more Humanistic approach; a love and goodwill for mankind, without fear of an eternal hell and torment. This seems to create a more carefree life. I know this disagrees with what most of the religious-type believe to be true, but i have never known any seriously depressed atheists, or other nonbelievers.
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