Can Christians struggle with anxiety or depression?

Yes, Christians can and do struggle with anxiety and depression. Being a follower of Christ does not make a person immune to emotional or psychological suffering. Scripture is filled with examples of faithful believers who experienced deep anguish, discouragement, and fear.

David wrote:

“I am weary with my groaning; all night I make my bed swim; I drench my couch with my tears.” (Psalm 6:6)

Elijah, after a great spiritual victory, fell into despair and asked to die:

“It is enough! Now, Lord, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers!” (1 Kings 19:4)

Even the apostle Paul wrote of being burdened beyond measure:

“We were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life.” (2 Corinthians 1:8)

Struggling with anxiety or depression is not a sign of weak faith or sinfulness. It is part of the human experience in a fallen world. What matters is how a believer responds, by turning to the Lord and trusting in His sustaining grace.

“Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.” (Psalm 55:22)

“When my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” (Psalm 61:2)

Jesus invites the weary and burdened to find rest in Him:

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

Christians are also called to bear one another’s burdens:

“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)

Through prayer, Scripture, fellowship, and often counseling, believers can find healing and help. God does not condemn His children for struggling. Instead, He walks with them through the valley:

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me.” (Psalm 23:4)

The presence of emotional struggles does not negate salvation or spiritual maturity. It simply points to the need for God’s continual work in our lives.