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Have you ever struggled with anxiety or depression and felt like no one understood what you were experiencing? No matter how hard you tried to explain the scenario, they looked at you like you had twelve heads. I know the feeling.
Fourteen years ago, I sat in my high school English class writing a paper about who I was and who I wanted to become. Everyone around me thought I had it all together—good grades, strong faith, and a busy schedule. But inside, I felt lost and confused.
Despite living in a “Christian home,” my world was far from safe. My home was filled with anger, violence, and substance abuse—all from close family members. I felt trapped.
To cope, I developed a dangerous relationship with food and an addiction to exercise. I thought controlling my body was the answer. It wasn’t.
At the time, I didn’t realize how abnormal my situation was. I was told to pray more and be grateful because others had it worse, but that didn’t ease my pain. It invalidated it.
Sadly, many of you might relate to this. You might not have grown up in a dangerous home, but 1 in 3 (33%) of you struggle with worry, fear, sadness, scattered thoughts, eating well, or self-harm. Most of you feel so ashamed or confused and hide how you really feel. When someone asks how you’re doing, it’s easier to say, “I’m fine,” than to share the truth. Can you relate?
As a former English teacher, I want you to try a simple activity. If any of the following statements resonate with you, simply acknowledge that and nod your head as you read. Here are the statements:
1. “I know someone who has struggled with anxiety, depression, or an eating disorder.”
2. “I know someone who has attempted or died by suicide.”
3. “I have struggled with anxiety, depression, an eating disorder, or any other mental health issue myself.”
While I couldn’t physically see you nodding, I assume that most of you nodded your head. Mental health struggles aren’t new to society, and Christians aren’t immune from their presence in our lives. But it’s powerful to know you’re not alone in this.
It’s okay to feel your feelings and reach out for support. There’s no shame in seeking help and being honest about your struggles.
If I could turn back the clock, there are 3 things I wish someone would’ve told me about mental health growing up.
