Depression And Guilt Case Studies

I was recently asked to meet with a friend that has been feeling depressed for about a year and a half. I have noticed and others have noticed that he is not his normal self. He told me he is not sleeping well and his social engagement has diminished severely. He seems to be isolating himself and he visibly appears to be carrying a heavy load that those who know him have noticed. In addition, last week someone filled me in on information concerning the actions he has taken over the past two years. I believe these actions are the source of his depression. I believe he feels guilty and shameful for what he has done. His lived-theologies are getting in the way of him experiencing forgiveness. In this case study, I am interested in understanding the connection between depression and guilt. Does guilt have the potential to depress an individual? Can depression be relieved through confession and restitution? …show more content…
Especially in light of one of the women being married and now with a child, which could be his even though she says it is not. I told him, “There is the possibility of a whole lot more stuff hitting the fan.” Looking back, that may not have been the most hopeful thing to say, but I felt I needed to say it. In response, he asked, “What should I do?” I said, “What does it look like for you to ask those you have sinned against for forgiveness?” He gives me a blank stare. I try to interpret what his look is about. Did he not understand my question or does he not think he needs to ask the women for forgiveness. So I ask, “Do you think you have sinned against them?” He says, “Yes, I need to ask them to forgive me.” I tell him that he can write a letter, say it face to face or some other way that is more comfortable for him. He agrees to think and pray that