I didn’t want to do another workbook study. I didn’t want to read more books, articles or mountains of other information typically provided by the medical community. I just wanted hope and healing.
I grew up in a home with a parent who was undiagnosed with a mental health condition. So when one of my family members began showing similar signs, it wasn’t new to me. My husband and I have been walking alongside our loved one in her suffering for close to 30 years. During this time, there has been zero support from our extended family—only disbelief that one of their own was “crazy,” as they described it. Mental health stigma is a thing. And it hurts.
Our former faith community was at a loss as to how to support us. But we found the more we talked about what we were going through, the more people felt comfortable sharing their own experiences. One woman even told me we “saved her life” by speaking about mental health conditions. Sharing each other’s burdens was and continues to be a balm to my soul (Galatians 6:2). And most importantly, it’s a way to help others get to know Jesus. May they smell the aroma of Him on me as we continue to walk this journey. -Deb
Do you have a family member living with a mental health condition? Discover hope, increase understanding of mental health conditions and treatment options, and connect with others in a confidential and structured setting. Visit wooddale.org/care to learn more.