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ANXIETY & THE ANTIDOTE

by | Nov 15, 2024

Worry & Anxiety

According to an article by the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA), “Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the US, affecting 40 million adults, or 19.1% of the population.” (www.adaa.org) Everyone worries – it’s a natural part of life. But how do we prevent worry and anxiety from controlling and paralyzing us? Maybe you’re worried about the mental or physical health of a child or aging parent. Perhaps you’re concerned about finances. You could be facing a health challenge with no clear answers.

What to Do About Worry & Anxiety

My point is this: Anxiety is real, hard, and painful. So what do we do when worry dominates our life? I wish I could say I have solved this problem. I cannot. But I would like to share three things that I have found helpful in my life.

Prayer

The simple, sincere prayer of, “God, I am worried and don’t know what to do. Please help me.” has been profoundly helpful to me. The Bible tells us to “cast all your anxiety on Him (God), because He cares for you”. (1 Peter 5:7) Comfort and a path forward has not always come right away; sometimes it’s taken years. But God has been faithful to me in His way and His time.

Others-Focused

Do something for someone else. Anxiety can create an internal “stewing” of thoughts and feelings. When I look outward and serve someone else, it helps me remember that there is more to life than my situation; maybe I can be a blessing to someone else in what they are going through.

Gratitude Makes Way for Joy

It sounds trite, but taking a step back and remembering the numerous things you have to be thankful for can reframe your anxious thoughts into an attitude of gratitude!

gratitude

 

See our previous blog post here