What Does Depression Mean for My Faith? – Kathryn Butler

Kathryn Butler, What Does Depression Mean for my Faith? (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2024), 61 pp.

Depression is an ongoing challenge for many people. The solutions range far and wide. Dr. Kathryn Butler cuts through the fog of confusion and uncertainty and offers real hope in her book, What Does Depression Mean for my Faith?

The most striking thing about his little book is its transparency. The author faces the problem of depression head on. She refuses to “sugar-coat” this vexing issue. She wise distinguishes between ordinary sorrow and clinical depression. Admitting the pain of depression, she acknowledges, “In such bleak times, sufferers of depression need Christian love and the truth of the gospel more than ever.”

The author focuses her attention on causes and characteristics of depression. She suggests various forms of treatment, never minimizes the ultimate hope that is found in the power of the gospel.

Theological matters are dealt with minimally here, so thoughtful readers should find more help from authors such as Ed Welch and Martyn-Lloyd Jones.

Dr. Butler’s book is an excellent starting point for someone who seeks help for depression or a caregiver/counselor who needs tools to provide help for a counselee. However, as noted above, additional resources will be needed for maximum impact.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.