WINNING THE WAR ON DEPRESSION Change Your Story with Kirstin Leigh
BY KIRSTIN LEIGH
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rowing up in a small, ‘this is the way it is’ town, I quickly learned what it’s like to be an outcast, judged before you open your mouth, and bullied – living in fear just because you don’t follow the crowd. I knew that one day, I would make life better – easier for everyone else. I also knew I would be moving to New York City as soon as possible. And that is what I did. I saved my babysitting money and moved to NYC when I was seventeen. I was ready to conquer the world! However, there were times when the world almost conquered me. I know what it’s like to fight for a dream—and what it’s like to lose one. I know how it feels to be smiling on the outside and crying on the inside, for habits to become lifestyles, and to look in the mirror one day and barely recognize yourself. I know what it’s like to give up. And I know the faith and the work it takes to get back up. Depression can attack anyone. For some, it’s like a sudden storm. It might not last long, but its effects linger. For others, it’s like a torrential downpour that never lets up. While there is no formula for breaking free from depression, I pray that each of the seven steps I’ll share below will bring you closer to freedom. Closer to living the abundant life God created you to live. Don’t let the dark cloud of depression blind you any longer. Make a decision today to fight!
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