(Photo by Kat J)
Author: Elsie Revange
Depression and anxiety aren't things that can immediately disappear. Having depression can leave you unmotivated, tired, and numb, and anxiety can cause you to overthink and become extremely anxious.
(Back story) I grew up in a very toxic environment. I was constantly judged, told to live up to expectations ( that I clearly couldn't meet), and was often compared to others. All of this and many others caused me to grow anxious and soon depressed.
On the bright side, here are a few tips to help you overcome your battle with depression and anxiety.
1) Talk to someone: Not just anyone, someone you can trust
You can't always fight your battles on your own, especially when you are in a state of mind where it's hard to do so. I understand that having conversations like this isn't easy, but remember that we are all facing similar trials, and it is best to have someone that can/ will try to listen rather than sitting in your thoughts alone. This does also include talking to God, keeping in mind also to seek professional help. I recommend God and therapy.
1 Peter 5:9- "Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are."
2) Change your environment: in this case, join a God-fearing community
Having a genuine community that is not toxic and cares for you both mentally and spiritually is what all individuals need.
Proverbs 18:24- "One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother."
You are never alone when the right people surround you. Pray and ask God for genuine godly friendships. You need people that are going to pray for you, be to you honest, and love you.
3) Have Faith
Another tip to keep in mind is to stay faithful. Having depression and anxiety naturally makes you feel hopeless, but God reminds us that anything is possible with faith, no matter how tiny.
Matthew 17:20- "He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.”
I’ve been feeling down lately due to my job because I don’t really like it but I can’t necessarily get out of it right now due to circumstances, but reading this helps me realize that no matter how tough life gets God has an amazing plan for me and that having patience and faith is very important.
I was crying to God and telling him that “I can’t handle all this“ and I heard such a clear voice say “Let it all go into my hands “. I cry even harder . Saw your post on Instagram and this is exactly what I needed! Thank you so much! I really needed this ! Truly inspiring!