There are many myths about mental illness in the Christian community. Learn the truth, from a Christian perspective, about mental illness and how to help!
One of the biggest myths about mental illness is that it is somehow a flaw, failure, or punishment from God because of a lack of faith or personal choices. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Mental illness is not a sign of weakness or lack of faith but takes the strength of Samson to endure the challenges of living with one on a daily basis, especially in a world that is so full of stigma and judgment.
Keep reading to learn more myths about mental illness and faith and why you can rest assured that having a mental illness is not a sin.
Remember The Purpose of Life
God didn’t create you to fail.
He is a loving Father who wants you to succeed and be the best you possibly can be. The purpose of life and our goal on earth is to become more like Him. To be unconditionally loving and gain the wisdom to be able to find peace and happiness in this life and the life hereafter.
We learn the most through struggles and trials, not from life being perfect. True understanding, empathy, and unconditional love are only gained through personal experience and struggles.
When you get to know most people who struggle with mental illness, you’ll see a more gentle, and less judgemental soul. Many with mental illness are more spiritual and forgiving because they have been through so much themselves.
If you search the LDS scriptures online, you’ll find the most powerful prophets and figures were those who searched their souls and struggled with what they perceived as their own weaknesses.
One of The Biggest Myths About Mental Illness: Punishment
Having a mental illness means you are sick not weak.
The stigma surrounding mental illness has caused people to forget that they are no different than physical illnesses. Attention, compassion, expertise are all needed to successfully treat and manage any illness. Whether it is diabetes or bipolar, cancer or an eating disorder.
Some mental health conditions are the result of trauma or other people’s sins. Abuse, neglect, trauma can all lead to struggles with mental health issues. Watching the news in the world today can lead to mental health struggles like depression and anxiety.
No one is immune. Everyone will struggle at one point or another in life. Some may not seek help or be diagnosed with a problem but everyone should be aware of their own mental health and susceptibility to mental illness.
You Can Still Make Healthy Choices
Having a mental illness doesn’t mean you did anything wrong. It isn’t your fault that you have one but it is your choice how you decide to live with it.
We all have struggles in life but we also have free agency to be able to choose our actions and make healthy choices.
Seeking help from qualified and trained professionals isn’t a sign of weakness or something to be ashamed of.
Mental illness should be treated with the same emphasis as physical health and the same attitude. Getting professional help and support is smart and being proactive.
Faith can be a powerful tool in your journey to accept and live with a mental illness. Looking for the tender mercies, blessings, and lessons in the trials you have in life can help you find peace and acceptance.
God Is Perfect and You Weren’t a Mistake
God doesn’t make mistakes and He can make all things work for your good. Mental illness is a part of life for many people in the world and it isn’t because they did anything wrong. It’s a part of life that can be hard but doesn’t mean life can’t be great. Don’t let the myths about mental illness make things harder. Learn the facts about mental illness and be patient with yourself.
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