Depression is a psychological illness with both physical and psychological symptoms. If these symptoms last for more than two weeks, the condition is described as depression.

Ministers and reference persons should

• take seriously the behaviour of those concerned, and accept their condition. Their lives of faith (e.g. praying, attendance at church services) may be limited.
• not explain the causes of depression as a lack of faith.
  
• advise depressed people to seek professionally recognised treatment.

Psychological illnesses are not an obstacle to achieving the goal of faith.