I’m Just a Guy: Fighting Depressionનમૂનો

When Joy Feels Out of Reach

Depression has shown up in my life in different ways. It’s like an unwanted guest that comes in at the most random times and usually lingers around far too long. The world paints depression in a clear visualization. For instance, commercials often portray people sitting alone, visibly sad, with their heads down. It’s as if the diagnosis is easy to understand and correction is right around the corner. What I find interesting is that for me, feelings of sadness are not the overwhelming driver. Instead, what I’ve experienced is numbness.

The best way to describe the numbness is a feeling of deep awareness that sinks in, as if all the joy has been drained from everything I touch. I can still smile, even laugh at times—but inside, there’s nothing. No emotion. No conviction. Just emptiness. And what’s even more unsettling is that I often know I’m numb, yet it doesn’t disturb me. Unlike when we catch a cold or battle a stomach bug—where we quickly reach for rest, medicine, or a doctor—when depression strikes, I somehow don’t always have a sense of urgency to correct it and instead simply accept it as my reality. Hopelessness creeps in, and joy feels like a distant memory I can’t quite recall.

In those seasons, I’ve had to train myself to run to the only true source of hope. The Psalms, especially David’s raw words, remind me I’m not alone and that I’m definitely not the first person to ever feel this way. His honesty often feels like he’s reading my very thoughts: the despair, the questions, the longing for God to break through.

Maybe you can relate. Maybe something nudged you here today, and you’re walking through this because you’re not sure where to turn. Let me be upfront—this isn’t a quick fix. Following a study doesn’t magically erase depression or pain. But what I can promise is this: you’re not alone.

Your emotions are real, and God gave them to you for a reason. They often point to something deeper we need to bring before Him. Ignoring them tends to only prolong the struggle. By opening this plan, you’ve already shown courage and self-awareness. Don’t mistake the power of taking this step—it matters.

Joy may feel completely out of reach right now. And for that, I’m sorry you’re hurting. My encouragement is simple: keep leaning in. Keep opening God’s Word. Keep fighting, even when numbness whispers that it’s not worth it. As you walk through this, may God reveal hope in ways you’ve never considered. You are not alone—and even here, even now—He is with you.

Reflection Questions:

1. When did you last feel joy was completely out of reach?
2. What’s one small way you can praise God today despite how you feel?