The Light Shines in the Darkness: Winter Blues, Depression, and the Promise of Deliverance
The Light That Entered a Dark World
The story of Jesus’ birth is often picturesque: stars, candles, a peaceful baby in a manger; however, at the time of His birth, the people were longing for deliverance. Jesus was born into a world of political oppression, where Herod the Great was exacting brutal violence, executing family members and infants in Bethlehem. The climate was anything but cheerful as the Jewish people were under heavy taxation, social unrest, and burdened by Roman rule. Amidst this darkness, they yearned for the Messiah, a Deliverer who would bring justice and usher in a new era, thereby ushering in God’s Kingdom. Of course, this did happen, just not in the way that they expected.
Perhaps, you too, in this season, are amid darkness – trials you never thought you would ever have to experience. Perhaps, like the Jewish people, you are wearily holding onto unrealized promises, and the longing for deliverance is palpable. Perhaps, today, “the light shines in the darkness” needs to be more than a pretty phrase on a Christmas card – it needs to be a real hope and declaration that God will step into real human suffering - your suffering, and the heaviness you feel.
For Christians walking through dark times, the birth of Christ is our reminder that our Messiah does not wait for our world to be bright; He lovingly pursues us, right in the middle of the darkness, when things may be the most overwhelming.
Seasonal Affective Disorder vs. Major Depression
You may be reading this during the winter season or searching for hope during what you may have started to name as depression. Depression comes in many forms, for many reasons, and although there are clinical categories, it can be a unique experience for every individual.
When people talk about “winter blues,” they may be referring to a recurrent pattern of depressive symptoms that show up around the same time of each year, often late Fall or Winter – this is categorized as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). During these seasons, daylight decreases, energy drops, and people may feel more tired, withdrawn, or down than usual.
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), on the other hand, is not limited to a season and can occur at any time of year. It involves a more persistent set of symptoms, such as ongoing sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and, in some cases, thoughts of death or suicide that last most of the day, nearly every day for at least two weeks.
Some people with MDD may notice their symptoms worsen in winter, and others may meet criteria for both MDD and a seasonal pattern, which is why a thorough assessment with a licensed mental health professional is important. If someone is experiencing significant impairment, hopelessness, or any suicidal thoughts, they should seek professional help immediately rather than assuming it is “just” winter blues.
The Depression “Cure”
Dr. Stephen Ilardi, in his book “The Depression Cure: the 6-Step Program to Beat Depression without Drugs” outlines a multi-part lifestyle-based protocol for addressing depression. Ilardi emphasizes that modern lifestyles have drifted away from patterns that historically protected people’s mental health, and he proposes specific changes to help restore well-being. The components are surprisingly simple:
Increased physical activity: Movement and exercise can help regulate mood by influencing neurotransmitters and reducing stress hormones.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Supports brain health and mood.
Quality Sleep: Crucial in managing stress and regulating cortisol levels.
Social Connection: Intentional connection with safe, supportive relationships counters the isolation that often deepens both SAD and MDD, and Christians may find that community in church, small groups, and trusted friendships can become a tangible expression of Christ’s presence.
Exposure to natural light: Spending time outdoors and being exposed to bright light supports healthy circadian rhythms and boosts energy levels.
Healthy Thinking Patterns: Anti-rumination is important to the management of depression.
The protocol outlined in “The Depression Cure” is based on the Therapeutic Lifestyle Change (TLC) at KU. This is an effective treatment with over 70% of patients experiencing a favorable response, as measured by symptom reduction of at least 50%.
When All Hope Seems Lost
It may be daunting to try and implement the steps above when you are feeling so overwhelmed. And, although you may check off the symptoms of depression above, you may, like the Jewish people, also be experiencing a spiritual longing of sorts – for deliverance.
Could it be that in this season, God is ready to meet you right where you are – during your darkest time?
For the Jewish people, in one of their most oppressive moments, Jesus the Messiah was sent to deliver them in the form of a human baby. He came in the most vulnerable form, and yet, the Scriptures, speaking of Jesus, say:
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it (John 1:5).
Friend, for you, the one whose glory resides in Christ (Colossians 1:27), do not give up hope, for the light of the world is within you. He is near to those who are brokenhearted (Psalms 34:18). In Jesus’ words:
“Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
