Finding Spiritual Shelter from Mental Health Struggles

Lutz FL

04 March, 2022

2:27 PM

Description

Many people in our communities have suffered from increased stress in today's chaotic world. This article relates an experience of how we can cope successfully despite increased anxiety. Haunted by feelings of self-hatred and the fear of becoming like his father, Hudson resident DavidLaviana turned to drugs to ease the pain of a hard childhood. At the age of 24, he had three kids, two jobs, and no way to cope with the enormous pressure of making ends meet. Laviana, now 71, recalled, "I never really liked myself. There weretimes I didn't want my life anymore and I felt like ending it." Such mental and emotional distress haunts millions. A recent government survey showed a doubling since 2019 in the proportion of Americans reporting anxiety or depressive disorder symptoms. The pandemic increased the number turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such asalcohol and substance abuse. Laviana is thankful he tackled his issues long beforethe pandemic arrived, when hope unexpectedly knocked on his door in 1975. Twoof Jehovah's Witnesses, a group known for their public preaching, shared acomforting message with him. Although the scriptures resonated with Laviana, he admitted it still took a few yearsbefore he started turning his life around after another Witness left ascripture on his door during a particularly difficult time in his life. "I wentin the house and I looked at Psalm 55:22, which has been my favorite scriptureof all time now, about throwing our burden on Jehovah." Laviana said he was able to conquer his addictions and change his violentlifestyle. He credited Bible study, the power of prayer, and support fromfellow congregants for his success. "I could not have done it without God'shelp," said Laviana, "He still helps me every day." Laviana's transformation is no isolated phenomenon.Faith and the support of a congregation have helped many others turn the cornerin their recovery. "While the Bible does not indicate that spirituality cures medical problems, many havederived comfort and strength from what the Bible teaches and the practicalguidance it provides," said Robert Hendriks, U.S. spokesman for Jehovah'sWitnesses. Hope, support and positive coping skills aid mental health—whether these are built upby professional or faith-based sources, noted Lawrence Onoda, Ph.D., a clinicalpsychologist based in Mission Hills, California. Even those with serious mental health conditions may find some aspects of religiousparticipation help them cope with their symptoms, he said. More information on the activities of Jehovah's Witnesses, including resources forcoping with mental illness and emotional distress, can be found on theirofficial website, www.jw.org.