It’s okay, to not be okay | Mental Health Week 2021
Mental Health Week and World Mental Health Day on Sunday 10 October, are designed to raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma and encourage conversations about mental health and wellbeing.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenging time for our mental health, and things will continue to be stressful as we adjust to the new normal, post lockdown.
We’ve all experienced significant losses over the past months and for those whose cup of stress was already quite full, the pressures of COVID have led to an increase in mental health difficulties. We want everyone to know that it’s ok to be experiencing these difficulties (it’s ok not to be ok) and that help is available.
One of the least helpful things we can do is to dismiss our feelings or someone else’s struggles. It’s ok to let others know that you’re not coping so well at present or that you’re finding things challenging or anxiety provoking.
Prioritising our mental health and wellbeing is important if we are to be resilient and flourish—because of the pandemic, it’s more important than ever. We are complex beings with profound interconnections between mind, body, and spirit. While paying attention to our relationship with God is extremely significant for our wellbeing, when our natural coping resources are overwhelmed, we will also want to seek professional help.
Resources
If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to a member of the staff team, your GP, a family member, or a trusted friend. We’ve compiled a counselling directory and information on where to find help.
Keith Condie ran a helpful seminar, Beyond Blah: The Flourishing Life (even in a pandemic). Keith spoke about what the Bible says about the flourishing life and provided some practical tips for wellbeing.
Colleen Hirst, Christian Clinical Psychologist, gave a talk at Christ Church on Mental Health First Aid Principles. Colleen helps to deepen our understanding of mental ill health and give us practical tips to be better equipped to support someone through these struggles.
Alan Thomas’ book, Tackling Mental Illness Together: A Biblical and Practical Approach is a helpful tool to learn how your church can become a safe, encouraging and healing place.
