Time For A Checkup
Did you know that May is National Mental Health Awareness Month?
Why not take a moment to do your own mental health check? How are you doing?
If you’re feeling a bit anxious, you’re not alone. The Covid-19 pandemic of 2020 led to a 26% rise in anxiety and a 28% increase in depression within just one year. Five years later we are still not back to normal (if there ever was such a thing). In fact, research shows that the situation is getting worse.
The World Health Organization’s latest data shows a significant surge in mental health challenges:
- As of early 2025, there are 301 million people with anxiety disorders; 58 million are children and adolescents.
- More than 280 million people have diagnosed depression; 23 million are children and adolescents.
- Of those who struggle with anxiety, only 36.9% seek help.
Do those statistics alarm you? Well, here’s one more to think about: Barna Research estimates that approximately 34% of Christians experience anxiety and depression on a regular basis.
I know. I’m one of them.
Some Things To Consider
Some Things To ConsiderThe world is currently in a state of political and economic turmoil. Just look at the news and you’ll see what I mean. (On second thought, maybe you’d better not. I’ve had to reduce my daily intake of news for the sake of my mental health. You might consider doing the same). Many people are frustrated by things that are totally out of their control. Nationwide people are expressing their anger with protests (we have one every Friday in the town I live in). Thousands of people are taking to the streets because they are anxious and fearful.
I haven’t seen this since the Vietnam War protests of the Sixties. I remember being on a school field trip to Boston in junior high (what we now call middle school). We were driving down a street and when we turned the corner, our schoolbus was suddenly surrounded by protestors chanting and waving signs. The bus was unable to move for about thirty minutes, until the police cleared the way. Our teachers looked frightened, but we kids thought it was grand fun.
Oops– sorry about that diversion. I got off the track. But speaking of traffic, have you noticed how drivers are driving lately? Have you had a fender bender recently? How many times have you narrowly avoided one? It seems that more people are speeding, ignoring STOP signs, blasting through red lights– well, you get the idea. I’ve seen a HUGE increase in drivers who are either distracted or just plain angry. I never noticed this before the pandemic, but now I’ve learned to be a much more defensive driver. I’m constantly watching out for the other guy because I’m convinced he’s not watching out for me. And it’s not my imagination. According to Consumer Affairs, the annual number of car accidents in the U.S. has been rising steadily since 2011.
Another Fine Mess
Another Fine MessIn a February 26, 2025 post on pyschologytoday.com entitled “Anxiety and Depression in an Unstable World,” Eric Levine and Kim Nelson identified four factors that are currently affecting rising rates of anxiety and depression:
- Increased polarization and social conflict: When ideological divisions strain relationships;
- Erosion of trust in institutions: When governments, media, or legal systems seem unreliable;
- Fear of rights being stripped away: When heightened uncertainty leads to widespread fear about personal safety, autonomy, and future security;
- Increased exposure to distressing media: When constant engagement with polarizing or emotionally charged news causes distress.
Yeah, I know that list sounds a bit clinical. But think about it: do you see those things happening around you? I know I do.
Comedian Oliver Hardy would frequently say to his sidekick Stan Laurel, “Well, here’s another fine mess you’ve gotten me into!” And it certainly seems we are in a fine mess.
So, what can you do if you’re experiencing increased anxiety or depression?
What To Do If You’re Anxious
What To Do If You’re AnxiousThe first thing we need to do is come to the Savior. In Matthew 11:28-29 Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Being in right relationship with God is the first step to good mental health.
Second, give your burdens to Him as you pray. First Peter 5:7 tells us to “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” And Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” God understands there are times when we are stressed, and He tells us that we do not have to carry those things alone.
Third, receive His peace. The Bible says, “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 minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). It’s important to note that you don’t have to hide what you’re feeling from God. He wants to ease your fears and give you His peace. He told His disciples, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27).
Finally, remember that no matter what, Jesus will always be with you. Isaiah 41:10 declares, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” And there’s a marvelous promise from God in Joshua 1:9, “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.”
Whatever the future holds, you can be certain that God holds you! Whatever God says is true; God’s Word can be trusted. The Bible is a firm foundation; stand on it whenever the world feels shaky.
If you continue to struggle, reach out to others for prayer support. If physical symptoms persist, be sure to see your physician. If your anxiety is tied to past experiences, counseling with a pastor or therapist can help. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance if you need it. It’s God’s desire for you to be at peace, even when the world isn’t.
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