209: A Doctor's Personal Struggle with Depression with Dr. Michelle Bengston

Do you or a loved one struggle with depression? As Christians, sometimes we find ourselves wondering why we can’t simply pray ourselves out of depression. Join Alicia and her guest, Dr. Michelle Bengston, as they discuss the physical, emotional, and spiritual components to christian depression, share bible verses that have helped them along their journeys, and share what we need to do in order to respond to depression from a Christ-centered perspective.Dr. Michelle Bengtson is the author of multiple books, including the award winning Hope Prevails book and bible study guide. Her ministry's goal is to restore hope to renew minds and to empower others to live in their God given identity.If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, you are not alone. At the end of this episode, Alicia shares a few of her recommendations for next steps and resources you can use to help with your struggle.WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:[05:18] Dr. Michelle’s background and experience with depression[09:28] Dr. Michelle’s introduction to the spiritual side of depression[12:05] How Dr. Michelle saw bible verses ring true in her struggle with depression[16:06] The multi-layered contributors to depression[20:36] Ways the church can support Christians in depression[25:20] How Dr. Michelle went from feeling joy oppressed to grateful [28:41] How to cope with the lies that depression often tells us [32:48] How to approach tough conversations about God with our children [35:09] Addressing God’s truth with a loved one who is struggling with depression [39:35] Dr. Michelle’s advice for reestablishing your identity in Christ[46:16] Alicia’s takeaways and suggestions for next steps for those that struggle with depressionRESOURCES:Calm Your Anxiety Mindset Tool Kit Hope Prevails Bible Study Connect with Dr. Michelle: WebsiteInstagram MENTIONED AND OTHER RELATED EPISODES:Ep 204: 6 Questions to Ask When Your Emotions Feel OverwhelmingEp 192: 3 Everyday Mindset Skills for More Emotional StabilityWrite a 5-Star Rating and Review and Get a Free Gift: 50 “I Am” Declarations ($47 value)!If you love this podcast, would you take a second to write a five star rating and review? If so, I’d love to send you a free gift: the 50 ‘I Am’ Declarations. This is an audio and written statement of who we are in Christ, and includes Bible verses and powerful statements about identity that you can proclaim over your life. To get the free gift ($47 value), take a screenshot of your five star rating and review and then email that screenshot to [email protected], and we’ll send you access to the resource! Thank you again for helping us get the word out about the podcast in a bigger way!Send us Fan Mail