The Regional Spokesperson for Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mr. Folarin Odebode, has suggested the Bible as a solace for persons dealing with mental health difficulties as the whole community honours whole Mental Health Day.
On the occasion of this year’s World Mental Health Day, Mr. Odebode made this statement.
The Bible’s many lessons and teachings, according to him, are essential for connecting to divine intervention in any health issues.
“Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder are just a few of the mental health conditions many in this world are facing,” he said. “The scriptures can provide hope and comfort.”
The spokesman noted that JW.ORG provides helpful advice and inspiration from the Bible for men, women, and young people dealing with mental health issues, noting that the World Health Organisation estimates that 1 in 8 people worldwide live with mental health concerns.
The Bible contains calming and consoling messages, and the articles and resources on jw.org can be like a light at the end of a dark tunnel for people who are dealing with mental health issues or who may know someone who is. “We realise that there are an increasing number of people dealing with mental health challenges around the world on a daily basis. Mr. Odebode emphasised
He emphasised that the Bible’s message is one of hope, and we are confident that people will find solace and renewal in its Scriptures and resources.
“The magazine series “Mental Health—Help from the Bible” includes a number of articles with helpful advice and consoling ideas, while other articles include: • A Worldwide Mental Health Crisis • God Cares for You • Prayer — “Throw all your Anxiety on Him”
- How to Support Those with Mental Health Challenges • How to Benefit from Bible Examples • How to Help Those with Mental Health Challenges • God’s Promise of Perfect Mental Health
The essay “Comfort from the Scriptures” offers knowledge that can give people grit and fortitude to help them deal with bad thought patterns,” he stated.
The Bible may help us combat feelings of worthlessness, Mr. Odebode emphasises.
- Several verses in the Bible reassure us that we are not alone and that God, our Creator, fully comprehends how we are experiencing.
- According to the Bible, God will destroy unpleasant memories.
He claims that although the Bible is not a medical textbook, it can offer useful guidance. This is stated in the article “The Bible Offers Practical Advice.” According to the essay, the Bible acknowledges that patients can require medical assistance. Additionally, it emphasises the value of healthy lifestyle choices and exercise, and it prods readers to gladly accept assistance from others.
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“I have discovered that reading the Bible with my wife on a daily basis helps me begin each day with uplifting, uplifting ideas. And frequently on days when I’m having a hard time coping, a certain lyric will touch my heart,” says Peter, a depressed person, in the essay.
The following articles can be found on jw.org: Teen Depression—Why? What is helpful? as well as “How Do I Manage Depression.” A number of consoling verses from the Bible are quoted in the articles, including: “Jehovah is near to the brokenhearted; he saves those who are crushed in spirit.” —Psalm 34:18.
Jehovah will sustain you if you cast your weight on him. He won’t ever permit the just to lose his position. —Psalm 55:22.
- “Do not be afraid; I will help you,” I, Jehovah your God, am speaking to you while taking hold of your right hand. – Isaiah 41:13.
Never worry about the following day. in Matthew 6:34.
- “Let your requests come before God, and He will give you peace that surpasses all understanding” Phillipians 4:6, 7.
The worksheet “Working Through Sadness” and the whiteboard animation movie “From Sad to Glad” are interactive materials for young people. The video urges young people to locate a parent or close friend to talk to if they are feeling depressed. Other suggestions include praying to God, reading the Bible, particularly the book of Psalms, and putting feelings and thoughts on paper.
The video claims that “filling your mind with good thoughts from the Bible can have a good impact on your feelings.”
“If you have clinical depression, you shouldn’t feel ashamed of it. Many patients have improved with treatment, according to the video. You can go from being unhappy to being happy by taking each day as it comes and relying on the encouragement of your parents and reliable friends.
