Isolation

In our depression we tend to isolate ourselves from others. Instead of running toward people we run away from them. When we spiral into our depression we avoid people, not only physically, but verbally. When I am in the pit of depression I don’t talk much. I can sit in a room with my wife and talk about anything. Fortunately, she recognizes this and she checks in with me by asking questions about how I feel. This encourages me because I see there is someone who cares about me. Many times as I begin to talk to her my spirit starts to lift and I begin the climb out of my depression. We think isolation is what’s best, but it truly isn’t. We were not created for isolation, but for relationships.

‘“The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”’ (Genesis 2:18). God saw our need for companionship. He saw that we need a helper to assist us on our journey through life. This helper isn’t someone who is to fulfill our every wish. The helper is given to us to work beside us, to help us through the tough times by their support and encouragement. So, when we isolate ourselves we put ourselves in a position above God. We think we know better than our all knowing Creator. We were never meant to live in isolation for God and other people. God is a relational person and we are created in His image. Therefore we are also relational people. 

Many times we cannot get out of our depressive state by ourselves. We need a helper. Why do we seek counsel from a professional? A stranger who we trust in our intimate journey through depression? It’s because we were created to be relational people. Our soul is programmed to be in a relationship where we feel supported and encouraged. It is kind of strange that we would seek out a stranger, but not a trusted family member, or friend. I’m not bashing anyone for seeking out professional counsel. There are times when it’s necessary and beneficial. However, we should shut out the people who know us and  care about us. These are the people available to us most of the time. Instead of withdrawing into isolation we should be running toward God and those He has placed in our lives to help us journey through the many struggles we will encounter. Isolation isn’t the way out of our pit of despair. That’s why God gave us a helper.