By Ratidzo Njagu, Chido Loriet Tavengwa & Faith Masoka
Everything begins with a thought. Without a thought, we can not speak a word or create anything. Our thoughts really do form an essential base- whether we rise or fall depends on our ability to maintain a sound mind and truly live within the fullness of our individual potential. According to the WHO, Mental Health is defined as " a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community". As a result, it is very important to guard our hearts and our minds, because these are the source of the words we speak, how we act and respond, and ultimately our ability to be productive and fruitful.
Here is a list of bible verses to remind you to manage your mental health.
i. " When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise — in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?" Psalms 56:3-4
ii. "Unless the LORD had given me help, I would soon have dwelt in the silence of death. When I said, "My foot is slipping," your unfailing love, LORD, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy." Psalms 94:17-19
It is totally okay for us to go through a series of emotions especially when going through the challenges that life throws at us. You might feel alone, afraid, lost, and unwanted at times but the important thing is to seek help. At some point, all of us experience difficulties and it might start to feel like the situation is helpless but the truth is there is always a way out. In such situations always remember that you are not alone and that there are a handful of resources to help you through.
What we do matters
"Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up." Proverbs 12:25
Build a culture of kindness. It is so important to share a kind word with those around us, we never know what battles people are fighting.
Some situations affect our overall well-being. Unmanaged and left to their own devices, our thoughts might lead to the development of anxiety, stress, and depression among other problems, which stop us from realizing our full potential.
i. "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? " Matthew 6:25
ii. "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34
iii. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Matthew 11:28-29
When we take on more than what is within our control our mental well-being can be affected. By taking active steps to manage our thoughts, we guard our hearts and are better equipped to function fully on this journey called life.
i. "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27
ii. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."Philippians 4:6
iii. "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7
What a precious reminder that taking care of our mental health is a very real priority and that stress, anxiety, and fear are realities that affect most of us. While these are unavoidable we certainly have a host of resources to help us to manage our thoughts and responses as well as provide encouragement and support. If you require more resources or would like to speak to a trained professional please reach out to any of the support facilities linked here.
You are not alone, and your well-being matters.
"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid but gives us power, love, and of a sound mind." 2 Timothy 1:7
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