What do you do when the suffering of others disturbs you to the point of depression?

Question

I am having major depression, one of the causes is that I have a son who is severely disabled and my heart breaks for him. But a problem that is out of my control that pushes me into the black hole is thinking/knowing/hearing about children being abused, especially sexually abused. There are times I can barely function because I get so upset thinking about all the children in the world who are being abused...like 5 month old babies being raped and tortured. I can't stand it. I can't get it out of my mind and it makes me so depressed and upset that I feel like I'm not going to make it through the day.

Is there a name for this? I also am angry at god for allowing these things to happen to innocent children, so telling me to look to god for help is not helpful to me. God can stop these atrocities from happening but he doesn't. So at this time I hate him.

Answer 1

You may want to go talk to a professional. They can help you deal with your depression, anxiety, and anger.

Answer 2

Hey,  events like this are terrible and make most people sick and upset.

One way to get over it is to HELP in the cause.  HELP FIGHT CHILD ABUSE.  Volunteer with an organization or become a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for abused and neglected children in the foster system.  You have to goto training, pass a background check, and then you work with a child...giving a voice for what the child needs.

Also, you could donate to group homes/orphanges.  The kids there need everything.  Toys, games, balls, clothes.  Anything you can afford.  

One way to get over suffering from thinking about these things is to work to make a change.

Answer 3

I don't want to harp on religion, but our world is riding on free will...we are born and we as humans, as individuals, have a choice in how we behave or act towards others. God does not create child abusers...human beings CHOOSE to behave that way.

It's very easy to feel broken hearted because of the amount of suffering in our world....but you know that you cannot save every child or help everyone who is in pain...it is an unfortunate reality...you can only control your life and the way you treat others. If you treat them with love, the hope is that love will continue to spread like fire and eventually patch up some of the hate that is passed around...

Answer 4

abuse of children is disturbing to any normal person. and we are helpless to stop it. sometimes I have to just not think about it and avoid those types of news stories. I agree with you but sadly there is nothing you can do but maybe pray for those little souls out there who are suffering.  you must either try not to focus on it or get active about helping by becoming a volunteer. that is my best advice to you.

Answer 5

I was very touched by your feelings. Everyone needs to find their own coping strategy for this world, there will always be things we can not understand.

Ive suffered from depression for about 8 years now, my levels of depression change, the important thing is it have a positive outlet. Ive been blogging on my experiences and findings, i feel it will be very helpful for you.

http://downwithdepression.blogspot.com/