Defeating depression and suicidal thoughts

Daisy’s experience with depression started when she became pregnant and separated from the father of her child. This was compounded by her parents’ own separation.  Her father remarried while her mother had to work at multiple jobs to provide for them. During this time, influenced by her mother’s attendance in the Universal Church, she also started attending services, but was not committed to God.

“I harboured deep resentment towards my father and even wished ill upon him. We lived in a shack and it was not easy. There were nights we went to sleep on empty stomachs.

Eventually, my mother remarried, leading to some improvements in our circumstances. However, I struggled with disrespect for my stepfather. At school, I was a troublemaker and often stole from my peers. These actions culminated in my arrest for shoplifting with friends. However, because we were minors, we were eventually released without being jailed.

At the age of 22, I met my boyfriend. Everything went well at first until I fell pregnant.  He changed completely and told me to terminate the pregnancy. He was furious when I decided not to do so.  I fell into depression. When I went for a check-up at the hospital, the doctor told me to stop stressing because my child was not developing well.

Depression consumed me, leading to thoughts of ending my life. I withdrew, isolating myself in my room and neglecting my studies.

A turning point came when my stepfather reached out, encouraging me to return to the church. Taking his advice, I attended church on a Monday morning and spoke with the pastor. His guidance and encouragement to me to participate in the chains of prayers enabled me to confront my grievances and forgive myself, my child’s father and my own father.

This transformative process alleviated my anger and depression, leading to a newfound respect for my parents and a change in my behaviour.

Eventually, the father of my child and I reconciled. We got married and have three beautiful children. My entire family now joins me in attending church services. I have broken free from the shackles of depression and suicidal thoughts,” said Daisy.