9 Gospel-Based Resources to Help Battle Depression

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Depression is a difficult reality for many people. Maybe you experience it yourself or you know someone who does. Whatever the case may be, we've gathered an assortment of resources with the hope that one or more will be useful to you or those around you who could benefit from further understanding on this important topic.


Deliverance from Depression: Finding Hope and Healing Through the Atonement of Christ

Gregg Vandagriff, David P. Vandagriff, G. G. Vandagriff

This inspiring guide portrays the experience of the Vandagriff family, who struggled under depression for more than 25 years before relief came through the grace of Jesus Christ. G.G. Vandagriff and her son, Gregory, suffered the physical and emotional effects of depression, while David Vandagriff endured the deep difficulty of trying to support his wife and son during the turbulent years of their illness. Yet in the midst of great strife, the family saw the hand of God revealed in the form of inspired physicians, effective medications, and, most importantly, the direct influence of the Spirit. Written in turns by mother, son, and father, this poignant and uplifting account shows how to rely on the Spirit during times of adversity and draw on the Savior's blessings of peace, hope, and healing.

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Podcasts from the Mormon Channel

More Than Blues—Overcoming Depression by Amy Staley

Dealing with Depression, Part 1

Dealing with Depression, Part 2


Reaching for Hope: An LDS Perspective on Recovering from Depression

Meghan Decker, Betsy Chatlin

Written from a uniquely Latter-day Saint point of view, this informative and inspirational book offers important clinical information for dealing with the disease, including an overview of the symptoms of depression and suggestions for choosing a therapist, considering the use of medication, and finding hope to move forward—one step at a time. In addition, it explores the spiritual healing that is essential to overcoming depression, showing how we can use the atonement of our Savior to help us forgive, heal, and move forward. Reaching for Hope offers much-needed information and support for family members, friends, and Church leaders. It includes special insights for bishops that may help them understand what a depressed person is experiencing and how this physical brain illness may manifest itself emotionally and affect the person's feelings of spirituality and personal worthiness.

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Understanding and Loving a Person with Depression: Biblical and Practical Wisdom to Build Empathy, Preserve Boundaries, and Show Compassion

Stephen Arterburn

If someone you love is depressed, you probably feel confused, angry, and helpless. This encouraging guide will help you hold on to hope while broadening your understanding of depression and its treatment. Dr. Brenda Hunter has been a caregiver for someone with depression and has also struggled with depression herself. With empathy, real-life stories, and clinical expertise, Brenda teams up with Stephen Arterburn to explore the multiple causes of depression, how men and women react to depression differently, the influence of social media and technology on depression, the unique challenges of depression in adolescence, and how to take care of yourself while caring for someone who is depressed. Brenda and Steve know from personal experience that light can overcome the darkness of depression. You can get back the person you love. Learn how to care for both of you in this hope-filled book.

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Words from General Authorities

Like a Broken Vessel by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

Myths about Mental Illness by Elder Alexander B. Morrison


Overcoming Depression

Richard King Mower

From time to time, everyone experiences some form of depression, whether a touch of the blues or a feeling of utter despair. Dr. Richard King Mower offers concrete ideas on how to fight off depression and live a happier, more productive life. He explains how to cope with loneliness and grief, control anger and guilt, and develop the healthy self-esteem necessary to serve others.

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Between Two Minds: Healing from Depression and Anxiety for LDS Women

Judith S. Moore

“Like all great healers of the human soul, Judith Moore seems to have a magic touch. In her book Between Two Minds she shows us a faith-based approach for getting back in touch with our true self, voice, and worth—and to enjoy our one life—even through all or our losses and messes.” 

— Ken Shelton

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Valley of Sorrow: A Layman's Guide to Understanding Mental Illness

Alexander B. Morrison

In this helpful book, Elder Morrison uses laymen's terms to explain the causes, course, effects, and treatment of such debilitating diseases as anxiety disorders, depression, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. In doing so, he lifts the stigma and dispels the myths and misconceptions so often associated with mental illness. Recommending a balanced approach to treatment, including prayer, priesthood blessings, professional counseling, and prescribed medication, Elder Morrison offers hope and welcome encouragement to those who suffer from these painful, widely misunderstood, and destructive afflictions.

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Related Videos

Living with Depression

Like a Broken Vessel: Mormon Message

Choose to Stay


► Additional Resources: Mental health website by lds.org, Dealing with Depression and Mental Illness 

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