What Does the Bible Say About Anxiety and Depression?

October 21st, 2025
by Dr. James Johnson-Hill

What Does the Bible Say About Anxiety and Depression?

You’re not alone. And God isn’t silent.

Let’s Talk About It

Anxiety and depression can feel like isolating, invisible battles. They’re often carried in silence, with questions that feel heavy:

Why do I feel this way?
Where is God in this?
Is it okay to struggle with mental health as a Christian?

At Agape, we believe the Church should be the safest place to wrestle with these questions. And the good news is—God doesn’t turn away from our pain. He draws near to it.

Does the Bible Really Talk About Anxiety and Depression?

Yes. A lot more than we might think.

Scripture is full of raw, honest moments from people who deeply loved God—and deeply struggled.

David wrote psalms of despair.
Elijah begged God to end his life.
Job sat in silence, crushed by loss.

Their stories remind us: Feeling anxious or depressed doesn’t mean your faith is broken. It means you’re human. And God meets us in that humanity.

What Scripture Says About Anxiety

Anxiety usually shows up when life feels out of control—when we’re afraid, uncertain, or overwhelmed.

Jesus speaks directly to it:

“Do not worry about tomorrow… Each day has enough trouble of its own.” — Matthew 6:34

Paul offers this encouragement:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but... present your requests to God. And the peace of God... will guard your hearts and minds...” — Philippians 4:6–7

These verses don’t shame us for feeling anxious—they invite us to bring those feelings to a God who offers peace in the middle of them.

What the Bible Says About Depression

Depression shows up in Scripture, too—not just as a passing emotion, but as deep, lingering sorrow.

David cries out:

“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God...” — Psalm 42:11

Elijah, after a mountaintop victory, crashes into despair:

“I’ve had enough, Lord… Take my life.” — 1 Kings 19:4

And how does God respond?

With gentleness. With rest. With provision. He doesn’t rebuke Elijah—He cares for him, body and soul.

What About Stress?

Stress often builds when we carry too much on our own. But God invites us to hand it over:

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7

You don’t have to carry it all. You were never meant to.

Bible Verses for the Hard Days

If you’re struggling, here are some verses to hold onto:

Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you... I will strengthen you and help you.”
Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted...”
2 Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.”
Romans 8:28 – “In all things God works for the good of those who love Him...”

These aren’t just nice sayings—they are promises from a God who sees, hears, and stays.

Practical Ways to Walk Through Anxiety and Depression (With Jesus)

Faith and mental health aren’t at odds. In fact, your faith can be a source of strength as you take steps toward healing.

1. Pray Honestly

God already knows what’s going on—so don’t hold back. Pour out your heart. Let prayer be the place where you come undone, and let Him meet you there.

2. Meditate on Scripture

Write down verses. Put them on your mirror. Memorize one or two. Let God’s truth interrupt the lies.

3. Talk to Someone Safe

“In the abundance of counselors there is safety.” — Proverbs 11:14

Find a trusted pastor, friend, or Christian counselor who will walk with you.

4. Take Care of Your Body

Sleep, food, movement—God made you as a whole person. Elijah didn’t hear God’s voice until he’d had a nap and a meal.

5. Get in Community

Don’t isolate. We’re wired for connection. Join a small group, grab coffee with a friend, or just show up at church.

“Carry each other’s burdens...” — Galatians 6:2

6. Practice Gratitude

Start small. Thank God for one thing each day. Gratitude doesn’t ignore pain—it reorients us to God’s presence in the midst of it.

7. Seek Professional Help When Needed

Going to therapy is not a lack of faith—it’s wisdom. There are incredible Christian counselors who can help you navigate the mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of healing.

What Does the Bible Say About Mental Health?

God cares about your mind and your emotions—not just your “spiritual life.”

“Guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23
“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2
“Come to Me... and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

Your mental health matters to God. And you don’t have to choose between Jesus and getting help. He is present in both prayer and therapy, community and medication, Scripture and science.

Resources to Support You

If you’re struggling, here are a few places to start:

Christian Counseling
Check with your church or search organizations like AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors) for local faith-based therapists.

Books & Devotionals

Anxious for Nothing by Max Lucado
It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way by Lysa TerKeurst

Apps

Abide – Christian meditations
YouVersion Bible App – Reading plans on anxiety and mental health

Crisis Support
If you’re in immediate need, please don’t wait. Reach out to someone. Prayer hotlines, local pastors, or crisis centers are there to help.

Final Encouragement

If you’re walking through anxiety or depression today, know this: You are not alone.
Not in your thoughts.
Not in your feelings.
Not in your questions.

And more than that—God is with you. Right here. Right now.

“Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.” — Psalm 62:8

You’re not a burden. You’re beloved. And healing—real, soul-deep healing—is possible with Jesus.