Living With the Black Dog: My Journey Through Depression and Faith

A few days ago, I watched the World Health Organization’s video, “I Had a Black Dog, His Name Was Depression.” This simple yet powerful animation, based on Matthew Johnstone’s book, has touched millions of lives. The video serves as a mirror for many, reflecting the experience of living with the “black dog” — a metaphor for depression that dates back to Winston Churchill’s own description of his struggles. It illustrates how depression can follow someone everywhere, drain their energy, and make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. The focus is not on the color or the animal itself, but on the weight, shadow, and persistence of the illness.

Reading through thousands of comments, it’s clear that many people resonate deeply with the video, saying, “This is exactly how I feel.” Others have shared that it helped them understand what their loved ones are going through, and some found the courage to seek help because of it.

The video also highlights the stigma that can surround mental health, especially within faith communities. For example, some may feel shame or weakness about taking antidepressants. However, learning that the former Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, openly discusses taking antidepressants daily was reassuring. He remarked, “I carry an inhaler everywhere, I take an antidepressant every morning. Big deal... They are two sides of the same coin.”

That simple statement helps to highlight that mental health should be viewed with the same seriousness as physical health. Just as one wouldn't hesitate to seek medication for conditions like asthma or diabetes, there should be no hesitation in seeking treatment for depression.

One of the most powerful things about the “black dog” video is how it breaks the silence. Depression thrives in secrecy and shame. The more it is talked about, the less power it has. The Archbishop’s openness, and the stories shared in the video’s comments, remind us that no one is alone in this struggle.

Many people in the comments describe how hard it is to explain depression to others. Some have lost relationships, jobs, or years of their lives to the illness. Others have found hope in therapy, medication, exercise, or simply in knowing that someone else understands.

Faith communities can be both a source of comfort and a source of stigma. The Church, like the rest of society, has sometimes struggled to understand mental illness. But as Archbishop Welby said, “No one will take mental health as seriously as the Church has the potential to do.” Safe spaces are needed where people can talk about their struggles without fear of judgment.

Faith doesn’t make anyone immune to depression, but it can give hope. It can remind people that they are loved, that their lives have purpose, and that healing is possible—even if it’s slow.

If someone is living with a black dog, it’s important to know that they are not alone. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s an act of courage. Whether it’s talking to a doctor, a friend, a therapist, or a faith leader, the first step is to reach out.

As one commenter wrote, “The only shame is missing out on life.” Depression should not be allowed to steal days. There is hope, and there is help.

Psalm 42:11 offers comfort and honesty for those struggling with depression: “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me?” Naming the “black dog” feels like joining the psalmist in this vulnerable confession, openly recognizing the heaviness and shadow that depression brings rather than hiding from it. Yet the psalm doesn’t leave us in that place of sorrow. It urges, “Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” This captures the heart of faith during mental illness—a gentle reminder that hope endures, even in the darkest moments, and that praise is still possible. It becomes a prayer for resilience, an act of trust, and a promise to keep searching for light, even when depression tries to obscure it.

The Black Dog Institute stands as a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Founded in 2002 by Scientia Professor Gordon Parker at the UNSW School of Psychiatry, this Australian-based, not-for-profit organization is dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health conditions. Like the Archbishop, the Black Dog Institute recognizes the importance of breaking the stigma around mental health. They offer clinics, seminars, workshops, and online tools.

The black dog may never leave completely, but it can be tamed. With support, treatment, and understanding, life can become brighter again. If someone is struggling, please encourage them to reach out. They are worth it.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, please seek help from a healthcare professional or reach out to a trusted person in your community. You are not alone, click here for resources.