Where does depression come from? Is it in any way positive? In the following letter the Rebbe addresses a student who was going through difficult times that it’s all in the mind, and in that the mind can change more easily than we think. To learn more about the Rebbe visit: www.Portraitofaleader.org
How To Deal With Depression? A Unique Letter of The Rebbe
Where does depression come from? Is it in any way positive? In the following letter the Rebbe addresses a student who was going through difficult times that it’s all in the mind, and in that the mind can change more easily than we think. To learn more about the Rebbe visit: www.Portraitofaleader.org
By the Grace of G-d
27th of Teveth, 5721
Brooklyn, NYMr. —–
5265 Park Avenue
Montreal 8, Que.Greeting and Blessing:
I received your letter and enclosures.
It is explained in many places in Chasidus, beginning with the Tanya, about the negative aspects of all forms of sadness, depression, despondency, etc. It is also clear from experience that these attitudes belong to the bag of tricks of the Yetzer Hora in order to distract the Jew from serving G-d. To achieve this end the Yetzer Hora sometimes even clothes itself in the mantle of piety.
The true test, however, is what the results are, whether these attitudes bring about an improvement in, and a fuller measure of Torah and Mitzvos, or the reverse. This should be easy to determine.
On the other hand we have been assured that “He who is determined to purify himself receives Divine help.” The road to purity and holiness, however, is one that should be trodden step by step, and by gradual and steady advancement.
Needless to say, the idea of your continuing at the Yeshivah for some time is the right one. As for the question how and what to write to your parents, I suggest that you consult with Rabbi Joseph Weinberg, who knows them personally, and who could give you some useful suggestions.
Hoping to hear good news from you in all above,
With blessing,
(signature)
Zalmy
I think it would be wrong and misleading to think that the Rebbe would address all forms of depression with the answer given in this letter.
There are some forms of sadness – depression which the Rebbe advised people to seek professional help.
Depression is serious but in almost 100% of cases can be cured.
There is always light at the end of the tunnel and anyone who suffers from depression by turning to the right people can be cured and they can and should expect to experience a very happy and simchahdikeh life.
Yitz
I agree with Zalmy. You have to be really careful with putting your own “headlines” and commentary on the Rebbe’s words. This is the Rebbe’s letter to a particular individual, with particular problems – titling it “How to deal with depression” is wrong.
Rabahjack
I strongly agree with the above comments. Depression many times is chemical/biological and there are ways for it to be cured with medication or therapy. there is a difference between “sadness” and depression. We should be very careful not to blame the victim. We don’t want to add n feelings of guilt!