Mental Health

Life is a wild and unpredictable journey, often throwing us into storms that challenge our very core. In the midst of this chaos, mental health stands as a pillar of our well-being, allowing us to navigate life's turbulence, discover our strengths, learn and grow, and contribute meaningfully to our communities. It’s not just a part of who we are—it’s the foundation of a healthy, fulfilled life.

Yet, at any given moment, a mix of personal, familial, communal, and societal factors can either support or undermine our mental health. While many are resilient, those who face harsh realities—poverty, violence, disability, and inequality—are at a higher risk of developing mental health challenges. This vulnerability doesn’t discriminate, touching lives no matter how joyful or put-together they may seem. No one laughs or smiles every single day.

Our minds can become battlegrounds, filled with thoughts that trouble our souls. We all wear serious expressions, frown in frustration, or shed tears of despair at times—this is the truth of our existence. And it is a truth we must confront with courage and determination.

Far too often, especially among men, there’s a reluctance to express emotions. This leads to bottled-up feelings that fester, sometimes causing harm to oneself or others. Behind the laughter of happy crowds, where people sing, dance, and shout, many hide their inner turmoil, wearing a mask of celebration to cover their pain.

In communities that project an image of joy and success, countless individuals are wrestling with severe mental health issues, often in silence. The quick fixes they turn to—drugs, alcohol, or a carefree lifestyle—only offer temporary relief and often lead to deeper problems.

Addressing mental health isn’t just important—it’s essential. Parents must talk openly with their children, society must acknowledge the mental health struggles of those around us, and young people should feel empowered to speak up. This issue touches every generation, from the young to the elderly.

I once found myself crushed under the weight of the world, unable to think clearly as anxiety and stress overwhelmed me. Nothing seemed to go right, and even those closest to me felt distant. People offered encouragement, but their words often missed the mark. There’s a vast difference between being physically present and emotionally present—both are crucial, but often, the latter is missing.

When someone in distress doesn’t know how to ask for help, it can be heartbreaking. I remember asking for empathy and receiving a response that left me more isolated: "If you don’t speak up, how can you expect help?" I had hoped they understood my struggles, but instead, I walked away feeling even more alone, left to carry my burdens by myself.

We’re all fighting battles, and it’s not about whose struggle is bigger—we all handle stress differently. Don’t mistake someone’s ability to face challenges as a sign that their problems are small.

Waking up from surgery paralyzed from chest down was scary. The unknowns, fears and what ifs… will I be able to live in my house, drive again, be an attentive dad, useful husband? How on earth would I survive? All the things I had undone and unpaid. All the plans I had. All the life that was in front of me. Everything was just but a huge mess.

Lost in thought, alone, at times I couldn’t wipe my own tears. Covered in blankets or sheets so that nobody could notice my breakdown.

I realized pretty quick that I had to make a choice… either fight or quit. The answer was to fight. Fight to make sure my people were as little affected as possible.

The fight was hard. The fight is hard. 

I quit sometimes… sometimes even before I get out of bed, I already quit for the day.

Behind the smiles, I was battling demons in my mind. There were times when I contemplated ending it all, but fear held me back. I prayed at night for God to take me in my sleep, only to wake up the next morning dreading the life I’d been given. A life filled with anxiety, hopelessness, anger, and pain. People often wake up with smiles and lots of good mornings and I’d wonder what’s so good about that morning.

Living with mental distress often means constant mood swings. One moment you’re sad, the next you’re happy. One minute you’re silent, lost in thought, the next you’re bubbly. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions that can leave you branded as disrespectful, unaffectionate, or moody by those who don’t understand. If only they could walk in your shoes for a moment…

The smallest things can trigger intense emotions in someone struggling with mental health. Managing these emotions takes incredible strength and self-awareness, and it also requires understanding and patience from those around them.

In a world plagued by economic challenges, misguided leadership, and selfishness, it’s easy to feel like there’s no one to turn to. But in those moments, I urge you to seek solace in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. When friends are unavailable and the crowd no longer offers comfort, He is always there.

Don’t suffer in silence. Speak out and talk to God. He is the ultimate Comforter and Healer, a God who loves unconditionally, who never tires of listening, who understands your deepest pains. He offers hope, and He is ever-present in times of trouble.

Jesus invites us to find rest in Him: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Psalm 34:18 reassures us that, “The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit."

Matthew 11:28 offers the promise, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

And Isaiah 40:31 speaks to our renewal: “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint.”

Remember the words of John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

No matter what challenges come your way, know that you can always rely on God. You are never alone. Life may be tough, and mental struggles may weigh heavily on your soul, but with God, all things are possible. He heals, restores, and gives us the strength to keep going.