Depressed mood in a theological perspective
The symptoms of depression and those of accidie as described by the Desert Fathers overlap, in that feelings of despair, guilt, poor estimates of self-worth, lack of energy and self-absorption predominate. Tillich adds to these symptoms a sense of meaninglessness and purposelessness. A new model of depressed mood is proposed which incorporates a variety of different aetiological factors, integrating those from the body and the mind which are found in clinical practice, with others which have a spiritual origin. The need for reconciliation with God, the world and the self means that discernment of spiritual problems can be fundamental in finding an answer to disturbed mood. The psychological aspects of guilt and self-hatred and lethargy are explored through the work of Karen Homey, mainly in a discussion of the compulsions caused by an inflated ego-ideal. The work of Carl Jung emphasises the integration of the shadow, stressing the importance of reconciling polarities in the psyche so as to generate a creative tension which can replenish spiritual and mental energy. Many theologians, including Tillich, also emphasise that opposites must come together, so that God can be found at the centre of all things. Hans
Way, Marion C.
Carl Jung; Depression
Depressed mood in a theological perspective. The symptoms of depression and those of accidie as described by the Desert Fathers overlap, in that feelings of despair, guilt, poor estimates of self-worth, lack of energy and self-absorption predominate. Tillich adds to these symptoms a sense of meaninglessness and purposelessness. A new model of depressed mood is proposed which incorporates a variety of different aetiological factors, integrating those from the body and the mind which are found in clinical practice, with others which have a spiritual origin. The need for reconciliation with God, the world and the self means that discernment of spiritual problems can be fundamental in finding an answer to disturbed mood. The psychological aspects of guilt and self-hatred and lethargy are explored through the work of Karen Homey, mainly in a discussion of the compulsions caused by an inflated ego-ideal. The work of Carl Jung emphasises the integration of the shadow, stressing the importance of reconciling polarities in the psyche so as to generate a creative tension which can replenish spiritual and mental energy. Many theologians, including Tillich, also emphasise that opposites must come together, so that God can be found at the centre of all things. Hans
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