Do you sometimes think that having depression or suffering from anxiety is a kind of punishment from... the higher power?

[Orangeblossom85]

I feel that anything bad that happens in my life comes from my action. Then I deny... And doubt that I did anything to deserve such a harsh punishment. Then I twist to thinking that it’s faults of my ancestors. Then again I doubt cause even if me and my brother have it so hard in life, my sister is a golden girl since ever! For that one nothing is ever difficult and she gets to choose only between good and good.

I really wonder if we are being punished. And even if that seems right, I simultaneously cannot agree with that.

Despite... I seek for all the bad behavior within my memory, even if that was a kids actions. And I put such an incredible guilt on me.

[Hidden]

Punishment? No there are those who are handed everything in life and those who earn everything. This has made me a stronger person. It's taught me so much about myself even though it has broken me down. When you are broken down to that point, all the bs is stripped away and you are left with nothing but you. Raw, uncovered, and real. Not rainbows and sunshine that cover some people. I would say anxiety is not a punishment. It's a teacher and the Higher Power gives it to the strong and the ones he wants to know themselves

[Hidden]

No I don’t believe it is punishment from God. It is part of God’s permitting will to bring about a greater good.

[tstanley77]

No, it is not punishment from God. Some of the meanest, most evil people also seem to have it the best. They're obviously not being punished for their actions. (At least not yet I agree with the other posters. God allows it so that we will become more self-aware and more compassionate, wise, and ultimately, loving. I've grown immeasurably in self-knowledge in the 30 or so years of dealing with anxiety and depression. I used to fly off the handle at the slightest problem. Now all these years later, I have a much higher level of patience and calmness. It's a process. Please don't think that you are being punished.

[fauxartist]

no....it's a disease......a chemical imbalance in the brain.

[Ann10]

I don't think it is a punishment from God. Some people are more prone to anxiety/depression due to circumstances or genetic makeup. We all have our strengths and weaknesses. Those who are prone to anxiety and depression have to work harder by changing to more positive thinking. The glass is half full, not empty. You have to be prepared with a supply of coping methods to combat those issues. Also using the five senses to live in the moment and not concentrating so much on the past. Getting outside in nature and exercising help me a lot. Hope you can discover some new coping skills.