Mental health has been a topic of discussion in the religious world for centuries. From casting out demons to seeking Christian counseling, the tug of war between mental health and spiritual wellness is prominent. While many believe that a firm sense of religion is enough to suppress mental battles, others seek both scientific and spiritual remedies. When push comes to shove, the effects of religion on mental health are cyclical. The more we rest in the comfort of God’s peace, the less we battle with trivial matters. The less we worry about things that bring us anxiety, the more we can enjoy the splendors of a Christ-centered life. Understanding how one affects the other is key to unlocking both mental and spiritual health. Here are just a few ways that religion impacts mental health.
Anxiety Relief
If you open your Common English Bible to Philippians chapter 4, you’ll see Peter’s words of encouragement. He states that you are not to be anxious about anything, but to pray to God in every situation and ask him for his guidance. Jesus’s apostle goes on to say that when you present your situation to God, he will fill you with unfathomable peace and guard your heart. Knowing that you can hand your struggles over to a God who loves and cares for you unloads the heavy burden of mental dismay.
Have you ever found yourself searching for relief from daily anxiety? Do you fumble over words, avoid new experiences, or worry about outcomes that are out of your control? Find a basis in religion, center your life with Jesus, and you can find relief. The Bible says to cast our anxieties on the Lord because he cares for us. This image of thrusting our fears and worries to a higher power is greater than simply handing them over. God calls us to take our anxiety and lay it all at his feet because he can handle whatever we face far better than we can.
God Made Therapists, too
Just like any other group or organization in the world, not every person of faith finds validity in mental health issues. Many will say that a stronger faith in God will erase your woes with no need for medical intervention; however, God created therapists and psychiatrists in the same way he created pediatricians and surgeons. The presence of God does not negate the presence of illness.
Jesus performed countless miracles of healing during his time on earth, but he also comforted those who grieved great loss. He sat with those whose loved ones had died of natural diseases despite his proven ability to raise the dead. God’s plan is not always of healing in this lifetime. Often, God’s presence during our physical struggles is enough to relieve some of the burdens of them. Asking for the help of a professional equips us with guidance in our earthly walk as well. Walking through seasons of illness knowing you’re not alone in the stride is encouragement in itself.
Find the Purpose
The key to finding a balance between religion and mental health is to seek knowledge and purpose in your struggles. Recognize that you may need medical intervention to reverse natural illnesses like anxiety disorders, depression, or personality disorders. Find the best match for your mental health at withtherapy.com and remind yourself that asking for help does not mean walking away from your religion.
Ask God to reveal purpose in your counseling and to bless your therapist with the divine knowledge to provide tangible tools for your wellbeing. Remember that at the end of the day, the opinions of others do not define who you are and whose you are. The sole effect that religion should have on your mental health is a positive one. If Jesus could cast out demons that afflicted the souls of adults and children alike, he can guide a psychiatrist to assist you in battling yours.