Mental Health

by Jennifer Thomas

September 5, 2021

Dear Parents,

     I understand that most of you have school age children that have recently started their Fall studies during this pandemic. I sympathize with those who are afraid and anxious who are unable to commence virtual school and must return to face to face interaction. I writing this letter to shed some light that not only you are anxious but your children as well.

    Let us look at the term “anxious”, which means experiencing worry, unease, or nervousness, typically about imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome. Some students might feel anxious due to an upcoming test, school event, or graduation. During this pandemic, majority of students are experiencing anxiousness, nervousness, or worrisome due to the rising numbers of the virus and the tragic outcomes. Unfortunately, these students are in need of positive coping techniques that will combat these worried tendencies that make them distraught or depressed.  

    Remember when Moses was wandering the wilderness for over 40 years or when David was on a constant run from King Saul? They were both anxious and nervous not knowing what was to come next due to the feeling of dread, unknown future, and uneasiness. Both individuals put their trust in God regardless of their situation because they had faith. Yes, they probably were anxious in the beginning, but after God saved them they were able to understand all what was needed to conquer their own fears, was to completely trust the Lord with all of their heart.

   During this time we are unsure of what will happened next. We can only hope that this situation will have a major positive turning point for everyone. Yes, it might be hard to believe because we are living in an eventful crisis, but it is possible to not lose faith in what God has in store for us. Here are some Scriptures that are reminders of when we are feeling anxious:

• “but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
• “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
• “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

      I will believe seeking help from home is a good foundation for positive mental health. I do understand this probably will not completely get rid of these anxious feelings, but decrease the anxiety to a certain extent. I suggest incorporating coping techniques with your children to ease their anxious during the school year. Here are some coping techniques that can be practiced at home:

• Before your child leaves for school, pray with them a fervent prayer of protection
• Memorize Scriptures together
• Have a weekly in home Bible study
• Discuss their feelings and explain it is normal to feel this way
• Continue to give them support even though they feel uneasy