About Judaism & Depression

Judaism and depression asks a dual question about religion and medicine. Depression can weaken the link between man and God, disturbing his ability to feel his faith. Judaism is not only about the Torah, the Shabbat, the Talmud or the Midrash, it is also about community, family and support. The community espoused by Judaism can provide tremendous mental, emotional and theological support during troubling times.

History

Historically, Judaism refers to the children of Israel and the sons and daughters of David. Judaism is more than just a religion or series of observable holidays; it's a way of life. To be Jewish, one may convert to Judaism or one is born of a Jewish mother. By extension of this birthright, Judaism refers to the community of individuals who share mutual beliefs, culture and lifestyle. In 1945, this community extended to the founding of the Jewish state or as it is known in the global community: Israel.

Significance

While the Torah does not address depression directly, it does refer to the state of being man or woman should exist in. A person should not be so troubled and despondent that they are incapable of feeling their connection to the divine. By extension, medicine that aids the body and the mind to find succor and to function is important, but not if the medicine so obliterates the pain and connection to reality that they cannot experience the wonder of the divine. In other words, some sadness is natural, but when depression is a medical condition and creates an inability to function, seeking medical help is advised.

Types

A certain amount of depression in life is natural when depression refers to the sadness and anxiety associated with living. Mourning, for example, is a time when the heart and the mind can be depressed. In Judaism, rituals for observing death and mourning such as sitting shiva for the departed help assuage grief. Judaism's extended community also creates a very real support system that is vital for overcoming the psychological wear and tear of loneliness, depression and anxiety.

Considerations

Some medications that treat depression can influence a person's ability to experience emotions naturally. According to Judaism 101, if a person subsists on medication that inhibits their connection to G-d, then he or she should discontinue. This insight comes from a rabbi who lived in Spain in the 13th century. The medicines the rabbi likely referred to involved hallucinogens, opiates and other medicines designed to disconnect mind and body and not pharmaceutical medications to treat clinical depression.

Theories/Speculation

Religion and culture often go hand in hand as they do in Judaism. If a person suspects they are suffering from a clinical or medical depression, then they should seek the medical advice and treatment from a physician. If they are struggling with how their treatment affects their ability to pray and feel connected to G-d, then that person should consult with the rabbi and others in their temple community. Judaism provides support for the whole person, not just his religious aspects.

Resources

• Judaism 101