Spiritual depression can happen to anyone. This condition must be watched out for, because it can make someone lose faith in the Creator.
Spiritual depression is a condition when a person no longer feels confident in the greatness of the Creator. This condition is something that cannot be allowed to continue, because it can increase the chances for sufferers to do things related to error.
Causes of Spiritual Depression
Like other mental health disorders , spiritual depression can also occur due to various factors. Here are some of the causes of spiritual depression that you should know and be aware of:
1. Sins in the Past
As explained by Ikhsan Bella Persada, M.Psi., Psychologist, spiritual depression can occur when someone makes a big mistake or violates the rules that have been set by God.
“Feeling that he has done something very sinful and makes him think that God will not forgive him. This can make him distant or ignore his spirituality,” said Ikhsan.
The tendency to dwell on past mistakes and regrets can also lead to major depression .
2. Getting a tough life challenge
Too much trial in life can also be the cause of spiritual depression. In this case, an example is someone who suddenly loses all of his family members or valuable possessions.
In such times of despair, they may not feel any help from God. This is what then makes them feel doubtful and distrustful of their religion or spirituality.
3. Too Busy with Worldly Affairs
Spiritual depression may also develop if you have less time for spiritual activities. In some cases, being too focused on worldly affairs so that there is never time to get closer to the Creator can also trigger spiritual depression.
4. Doubt in Religion
Due to one thing or another, a person may develop thoughts to question: why does God put someone in sadness, misery, or hardship.
These things can trigger doubts, which ultimately reduce trust in God. Some who experience it can even feel angry, disappointed, and even criticize the Creator.
5. Trauma and Negative Experiences
Trauma and negative experiences, whether religious or not, can lead to spiritual depression. For example, someone who experienced abuse in a religious context may struggle with questions about divine goodness and justice.
Likewise, a very negative life experience can cause a person to question the existence or higher good.
Symptoms of Spiritual Depression
In fact, there is no spiritual symptom that is most obvious. However, people who experience it admit that they feel ‘disconnected’ from God. In addition, there are also other conditions that are suspected of being related to symptoms of spiritual depression. These conditions include:
- Not finding comfort and happiness when worshiping.
- Withdrawing from religious activities.
- Feeling as if lessons about religion have lost their meaning.
- Negative or pessimistic thoughts about God or religion.
- Questioning or doubting faith in God and his teachings.
How to Overcome Spiritual Depression
According to Ikhsan, the best way to overcome spiritual depression is to find out the root cause. “It’s a good idea to try to find the most suitable spiritual teacher, both with the true teachings of God and with your interests,” said Ikhsan.
“When you have the opportunity, convey your feelings and spiritual condition to the teacher so that they can be helped to direct you appropriately,” he continued.
In addition, do journaling by writing down the good and meaningful things you have done. The goal is to make you more aware that God always helps in unexpected ways.
You can also use the verbal reminder method, by saying positive things that soothe the spirit. If in practice you find obstacles, do not hesitate to consult a psychologist further.
Perhaps, with special therapy from a psychologist, your mind can be more enlightened so that your faith can increase again. Don’t let spiritual depression continue to control you. Try to be free from that condition, so that your life can be meaningful again.