Though I knew I had to complete what I started, I found myself hesitating because my dad passed away before he was given the opportunity to see it in print. He wasn’t shy about his struggles, actually he put them all in his journals. His desire was to reach others who were experiencing similar difficulties and let them know that they are not alone.
What triggered me to write this blog was a special mental health episode on “The Talk”. Eve (American rapper, singer, songwriter and actress) opens up about anxiety and panic attacks. She shares, “For her, it’s anxiety. She still has it; she still lives with it; it ebbs and flows… But now, she is so thankful to be able to share; like my dad, hoping that people realize that they are not alone.
- 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
- 1 in 25 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
- 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
- 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24
A mental health condition isn’t the result of one event. Research suggests multiple, linking causes. Genetics, environment and lifestyle influence whether someone develops a mental health condition. A stressful job or home life makes some people more susceptible, as do traumatic life events. Biochemical processes and circuits and basic brain structure may play a role, too.
None of this means that you’re broken or that you, or your family, did something “wrong.” Mental illness is no one’s fault. And for many people, recovery — including meaningful roles in social life, school and work — is possible, especially when you start treatment early and play a strong role in your own recovery process.
Unfortunately, the general public does not have empathy for others unless it hits their home. Combined with the labels that society places upon them, it’s no wonder we are now seeing the masses come out from years of isolation.
I say ‘Cheers’ to those of you who are brave enough to raise your voices and say, ‘I am not ashamed, and I seek help.’
My dad’s book was written to reach those who I may never meet in person, and to bring encouragement and remind others that they are not alone.
(Dad’s book, ‘God’s Got It’ can be purchased on Amazon.com).
Though Pausing With God Ministries was birthed from my season of menopause, we pray for you; our readers for any season that you may be currently experiencing. We want to share that if you have a family member or friend who is experiencing symptoms of an anxiety disorder, there is help.
Pause and check out – Cymone LaShae – 
A Hope dealer and mental health GOAT slaying mental illness with Jesus & therapy! https://www.instagram.com/ofasoundmindinc?
Also check out NAMI has some education programs and support groups at your local NAMI. Contact the NAMI Helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or info@nami.org if you have any questions about anxiety or want help finding support and resources.
If you find it challenging to find help, please feel free to contact us @ PausingWithGod@gmail.com and let’s get you connected to the right resources and treatment that work for you!
#mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #anxiety #selflove #love #depression #motivation
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