Mental Health Awareness Month

Throughout the Bible, we see evidence of a God who sees us and cares when we are overwhelmed, weary, sorrowful, and fearful.

God is near in our difficult moments. It is a truth that He will never leave us, nor forsake us.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

“If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:11-14

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” Isaiah40:29

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” Romans 8:26

Mental health struggles are not a spiritual failure.

Some contributors to mental health struggles:

• Biology

• Big transitions

• Lack of sleep

• Lack of support

• Relationship conflict

• Stress

• Trauma

God cares about you as a whole person— and that includes your mental health.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, it’s important to seek help. In a crisis, call or text 988 for 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or 911 for emergency services. If not in a crisis, consider reaching out to a mental health professional, your primary care doctor, or a mental health hotline.

As the Church, this is an area we can do better in. Reach out. Check in. Listen. Pray. May we show the compassion of Jesus to those who are hurting.