by Coryse Penco
Maintaining mental well-being is a widely pursued goal in today's society, so critical that it is included in the UN's Sustainable Development Goals framework. The World Health Organization reports that depression is a leading cause of disability, and suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds. Mental health challenges lead to premature death, stigma, discrimination, and other issues that affect society significantly. Despite substantial investments in mental health initiatives, today, at least 970 million people have mental illness globally, with approximately 8 million deaths each year attributed to mental disorders.
Current global actions, while helpful, need to be revised. Society needs a new perspective for managing mental and emotional stress. The Bible offers a comprehensive approach to tackling mental health built on prayer, meditation on God's Word, building community, and practicing the virtues of gratitude and forgiveness. Here are my top tips for achieving mental stability:
1. Prayer and Meditation
Set aside dedicated time for prayer and meditation, creating a space to connect with God. Share your thoughts and anxieties while you listen to His guidance. Philippians 4:6-7 beautifully reminds us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
2. Reading God's Word
Regularly immerse yourself in the wisdom and comfort of the scriptures. Only through the Word of God will you find the comfort and strength you need to reinforce your faith. Psalm 119:105 declares, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."
3. Community and Fellowship
Engage with your community of believers who can encourage, motivate, and support your faith. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to consider how we may spur one another toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together but encouraging one another.
4. Practicing gratitude
Cultivate a habit of appreciation by regularly expressing thankfulness for God's blessings. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 advises, "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
5. Forgiveness and Freedom
Forgive others, release burdens, and trust in God's grace. Colossians 3:13 implores believers to "bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
Mental health is a holistic activity that involves spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Integrating these Biblical principles is a positive step on your mental health journey. I encourage you to embrace these practices, stimulate your faith, and embark on a path toward a healthier and more resilient state of mind.