I know that there is a societal stigma surrounding mental health challenges. Unfortunately, this stigma has caused many individuals to suffer in silence instead of seeking help to address common issues. However, embarking on a journey towards self-discovery and emotional well-being can be a transformative and rewarding experience. As someone who strongly believes in the power of seeking professional help, I want to share my own experiences and insights to encourage you on your path toward inner harmony and healthier relationships.
The Power of Professional Guidance
Professionals are trained to help you better understand your thoughts and emotions. They can help you identify things you might not be aware of and work with you to find ways to overcome them. By partnering with a professional, you can overcome obstacles and find inner peace leading to healthy relationships.
Personal Story
In 2010, I started seeking professional help as a part of the requirements for my master's degree in mental health counselling. Since then, I have worked with mental health counsellors, coaches, and business mentors in different stages of my life. Each professional has played an essential role in addressing specific aspects of my life.
Mental health counsellors played a crucial role in my journey to heal from conflicts in my relationships with my mother, husband, and friends. My Freedom Coach helped me break free from limiting mindsets that were hindering my spiritual connection with God. Business coaches provided the support and guidance that I needed to clear my mind, overcome self-doubt, and develop strategies for entrepreneurial growth.
I’m grateful for the professional service providers I’ve worked with. Each professional uniquely contributed to my understanding of myself. They helped me heal from past experiences that have impacted my self-worth, and guided me to confidently and authentically engage in my relationships and professional endeavours.
Well-Known Christian Women Advocating for Mental Health
Here are some remarkable women who have openly shared their experiences of struggling with mental health issues and the importance of seeking professional help. In our society, people often only extend support after someone has hit rock bottom. I like that these women speak openly about seeking professional help because their stories help sensitize others to the need to extend greater empathy to people who need help.
Lysa TerKeurst: An author, speaker, and president of Proverbs 31 Ministries openly shares her journey of struggling with forgiveness, heartbreak, and disappointment. She emphasizes the importance of seeking help and relying on faith during challenging times.
Kay Warren: Co-founded Saddleback Church with her husband, Rick Warren, and has been an advocate for mental health awareness. She has openly discussed her own experiences with depression. Kay co-leads Saddleback's mental health ministry and has spoken extensively on the topic.
Christine Caine: The founder of A21 and Propel Women, author, and international speaker. Christine has been transparent about her struggles with anxiety and emphasizes the importance of faith, community, and seeking professional help for mental health challenges.
Holly Furtick: The wife of Steven Furtick, pastor of Elevation Church has been open about her battles with anxiety and has shared her journey through speaking engagements and social media. She encourages others to prioritize mental health and seek support.
Jamie Ivey: An author, podcaster, and speaker who has spoken about her experiences with anxiety and panic attacks on her podcast. She emphasizes the significance of seeking help and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in Christian communities.
People are afraid to ask for help for many reasons. Here are 5 of the more common reasons:
- Stigma: The fear of stigma (negative perception) associated with seeking mental health support can act as a significant deterrent.
- Vulnerability: Individuals may feel apprehensive about being judged or rejected and are concerned that opening up about personal struggles will make them vulnerable.
- Fear of Change: Seeking professional help often involves confronting uncomfortable truths and making necessary changes, which can be intimidating.
- Financial Concerns: Concerns about the cost of therapy or counseling may deter individuals from seeking help.
- Misconceptions: Misunderstandings about the role of mental health professionals and the potential benefits of therapy may lead to hesitancy in seeking help.
Despite fear or concerns, if professional help is needed, it is best to seek it as soon as possible. Below are 5 indicators that you may need professional help:
- Persistent Emotional Distress: If you are consistently experiencing emotional distress, like anxiety, sadness, or anger, it may be time to seek professional help.
- Difficulty Coping with Life Changes: When major life changes such as job loss or relationship issues occur, it can be overwhelming. Seeking professional guidance can provide valuable support to cope with these changes.
- Strained Relationships: Frequent conflicts or difficulties in maintaining healthy relationships may indicate the need for professional help.
- Disruption in Daily Functioning: If emotional or mental struggles are impacting your daily life, seeking professional help is crucial to maintaining work performance and personal relationships.
- Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms: Engaging in harmful behaviors such as substance abuse, self-harm, or excessive isolation can indicate the need for professional help.
I strongly believe in the positive impact professional help can have on our emotional and mental well-being. Through sharing my own journey and the experiences of other Christian women, I hope to inspire others to seek the support they need.
As a Harmony Specialist, my goal is to help busy Christian women discover comfort in their God-design, focus on their unique assignments, and fulfill their divine purposes. Remember, seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a brave step towards a more fulfilling and harmonious life.
Here's to your emotional and mental well-being, my friend!
Shop Now for life-changing books.
Subscribe to our PathWay YouTube channel for inspiring messages.
Stay Connected for more strategies and tips delivered directly to your inbox.
Comments ()