I should be able to get over this by myself, I’d think. But I couldn’t shake the despair. Even when I took my father’s advice and tried to keep myself busy with work and school, I felt dead inside. The only thing that seemed to ease my pain was sleep. So I began to do that—a lot.

My real breakthrough came when I finally realized I needed to see a professional. I sought the help of two different doctors: One was a Christian psychologist who worked with me to get to the root of my problems, and the other was a physician who prescribed medication that helped me feel normal again. I finally found real hope for me.

Depression does not discriminate by race, sex, or religious affiliation. It can be brought on by a stressful event, or it can begin for no apparent reason. Sometimes genetics can even play a role. But let’s face it—no one wants to be depressed or suffer from the stigma associated with it. It’s a serious illness that doesn’t always go away on its own. The symptoms of depression can range from feeling downhearted or despondent to feeling suicidal. If you realize you are depressed, you need to seek help.

Also, remember to call on God. No matter how you may feel, He is with you and wants you to trust in Him. You are not alone.