Don't Let Depression Be a 'Death Sentence'

How dangerous is depression? People who were perennially depressed saw increased health risks that were equivalent to a non-smoker taking up a pack-a-day habit, according to study published in the May 2010 issue of Atherosclerosis.

Essentially, depression is a death sentence.

"Experiencing this condition doesn't make you bad, weak, or unspiritual," pastor and author Dutch Sheets wrote in a Charisma Magazine op-ed.

"No one makes it through life without suffering some level of this disease. Hope deferred is the common cold of the soul, except that this virus can kill," he said.

But Sheets says there's hope for people struggling with this disease.

In his new book, The Power of Hope: Let God Renew Your Mind, Heal Your Heart, and Restore Your Dream, Sheets offers practical steps to help those struggling through life's disappointments and troubles.

He shared more about his book on CBN News Today, May 8.