As World Mental Health Day is observed, the Scriptures can provide hope and comfort
Depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress
disorder are just some of the mental health conditions many in the world are facing.
According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 8 people around the world are living
with mental health conditions.
As World Mental Health Day is observed globally on October 10, many organizations
are sharing resources that can aid in improving and stabilizing mental health.
JW.ORG offers practical tips and inspiration from the Bible for men, women, and young
people living with mental health challenges. the bible’s practical advice in dealing with
this condition
“In spite of the global advancement in medicine, the goal of providing desired medical
relief to those dealing with mental health challenges is far from being realized.
Nevertheless, many are benefiting greatly from the bible’s practical advice in dealing
with this condition and its impact on society”, says Olukayode Akin-Bamidele, regional
spokesperson for Jehovah’s Witnesses in Lagos. “Applying such advice have provided
comfort, relief and hope needed to cope with mental health condition such as
depression, irregular mood swing and sadness. Thankfully, many have found published
articles and resources on jw.org very helpful; the bible’s message is one of hope and we
are confident that people will find the scriptural thoughts therein soothing and
refreshing”.
The magazine series “Mental Health—Help from the Bible” contains several articles with
practical tips and comforting thoughts. Some other
articles include:
A Worldwide Mental Health Crisis
God Cares for You
Prayer — “Throw all your Anxiety on Him”
Comfort from the Scriptures
Benefit from Bible Examples
The Bible Offers Practical Advice
How to Help Those with Mental Health Challenges
God Promises Perfect Mental Health
The article “Comfort from the Scriptures” contains information that can provide strength
and endurance to help people cope with negative patterns of thinking. It also points to a
time when emotional pain will soon be a thing of the past. The article highlights several
ways the Bible can help those struggling with depression, anxiety and painful emotions:
The Bible provides many positive thoughts that can replace negative ones.
The Bible can help us to counteract feelings of worthlessness.
Numerous Bible passages reassure us that we are not alone and that God, our
Creator, completely understands our feelings.
The Bible promises that God will put an end to painful memories.
The article “The Bible Offers Practical Advice” states that while the Bible is not a
medical textbook, it can provide beneficial advice. The article explains that the Bible
recognizes that people may need help from physicians. It also expounds that healthy
habits and exercise are important, and encourages people to willingly accept the help of
others.
“I have found that reading the Bible regularly with my wife helps me to start each day
with positive, upbuilding thoughts. And often on days when I’m struggling to cope, a
particular verse will touch my heart,” Peter, who suffers from depression, says in the
article.
Related articles on jw.org include: Teen Depression—Why? What Can Help? and “How
Can I Deal with Depression.” The articles share several comforting Bible passages,
including:
“Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted; he saves those who are crushed in
spirit.” —Psalm 34:18.
“Throw your burden on Jehovah, and he will sustain you. Never will he allow the
righteous one to fall.” —Psalm 55:22.
“I, Jehovah your God, am grasping your right hand, the One saying to you, ‘Do
not be afraid. I will help you.’” —Isaiah 41:13.
“Never be anxious about the next day.” —Matthew 6:34.
“Let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that surpasses
all understanding will guard your hearts.” —Philippians 4:6, 7.
A whiteboard animation video titled “From Sad to Glad” and the worksheet “Working
Through Sadness” provides interactive resources for young people. The video
encourages young people to find someone to talk to if they are feeling sad, like a parent
or a close friend. Other tips include writing thoughts and feelings on paper, praying to
God, and reading the Bible, especially the book of Psalms.
“Filling your mind with positive thoughts from the Bible can have a positive effect on
your feelings,” the video states.
“If you do suffer from clinical depression, it is nothing to be ashamed of. With treatment,
many sufferers have begun to feel better,” the video states. “By taking things a day at a
time and relying on the support of your parents and trustworthy friends, you can go from
sad to glad.”
For more information, please visit jw.org.
Published on Brandfit