Question from a reader:

A friend of mine who is a strong Christian leader is dealing with depression, which he has sought treatment for, though it is no longer effective. What books and resources would you recommend for someone like this struggling with long-term depression?

Answer from Randy Alcorn:

The John Piper book When I Don’t Desire God: How to Fight for Joy is good.  Also good is John Piper’s book When the Darkness Does Not Lift, available online from the Desiring God website.

I’d recommend listening to some of the John Piper biographies which are very honest about great Christian leaders with low points. The Charles Spurgeon biography is excellent; it includes some of the very rough times. The John Owen biography is also very honest about the rough times in his life, as is the William Cowper biography, though that one may or may not be good due to Cowper’s suicide attempts. All can be listened to or downloaded free from Desiring God.

Spiritual Depression: Its Causes and Cure by David Martyn Lloyd-Jones is very helpful for some, especially those in ministry.

One book I highly recommend is by Ed Welch, titled Depression: A Stubborn Darkness—Light for the Path. Welch is always biblical and insightful.

The Gospel Coalition offers links to many online resources on depression, suicide, and mental illness, as well as the Christian Counseling & Education Foundation.