Issue link: https://cp.revolio.com/i/1508757
How's Your Mental Health Chaplain's Corner #17 Tom & Dee Sanchez (757) 333-2463 (Tom) (757) 333-2462 (Dee) Blacksheephdfc.Chaplain@gmail.com Chaplain@bshdfc.org Let's talk about depression, anxiety, PTSD and suicide. These silent attackers have been affecting our society for a long time and perhaps more now than ever. These silent killers impact Christians and non- Christians alike. In fact, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one-in-five adults live with a mental illness. There are many things that can lead to these illnesses, including chemical imbalances, traumatic events and an unhealthy family history. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well- being which affects how we think, feel and act. These conditions also help determine how we navigate stress, relate to others, and make good choices. As chaplains, we need to always be on the lookout for such issues within ourselves as well as those with seek to minister to. Signs of poor mental health include eating too much or too little, sleeping too much or the inability to sleep, pulling away from people or usual activities, low energy, feeling numb or apathetic, unexplained aches and pains, feeling helpless or hopeless, wild mood swings, yelling or fighting with family and friends, feeling unusually confused, forgetful, edgy, worried, or flat out scared! It is important to be aware of these indications so we can seek help and/or help others when needed. Once we recognize the symptoms, we need to know what to do. We should not be afraid of mental health issues – even within ourselves. We have to start with self-care before we can help others. We need mentoring relationships and mental challenges outside of our areas of expertise to better prevent us from "burn-out!" We also should know a good counselor who can help us or even refer us to someone else. As always, we must consult the scriptures. 1Peter 5:7 tells us we should be "casting all [our cares] upon Him, for He cares for [us]." The Apostle Paul writes, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God...and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Phil 4:6-7). It is one thing to reference Bible verses, but an even greater challenge to truly accept and apply them to our lives. That's where we all need to consider a weekly or even a monthly care group or support system. Everyone needs an accountability partner who they meet with weekly or bi-monthly. Especially for those in ministry, we need to remember to take care of ourselves so that we can take care of others. a