While we are passionate about raising awareness for mental health and helping those struggling, we understand it’s not our area of expertise. So, this Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re partnering with a mental health expert to answer some of your burning questions.🔥
Before we get into the Q&A, let’s introduce our expert, Arielle Xiong. Arielle is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults. Her areas of special interest include alcohol and drug abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship and interpersonal issues. Arielle also works with high school and college students experiencing major life transitions and adjustments. You can learn more about her or work with her by visiting her page here.
Okay, let’s dive into Arielle’s answers to these questions!
Question 1: How can we be more open and accepting of mental health challenges in the church?
We can be more open and accepting of mental health challenges in the church by recognizing that struggling with your mental health is not the result of someone not following God or not trusting God “enough.” Mental health challenges are a combination of genetics and experiences that happen to us throughout our upbringing. If we can understand that mental health is not a spiritual failure, we can have more compassion for others and understand what they are going through.
Question 2: What are some healthy tools to help set boundaries between you and your family?
Boundaries are important for every single relationship and are meant to protect ourselves and others. Some boundaries that are helpful for people to implement within their families are to recognize being able to say “no.” Many times I hear from clients that they feel like they need to go to certain events with family or always be available when they need something. But, the thing is, it’s important to respect your own wants and needs too. It’s also important to check in with yourself and ask, “Do I really want to do this or do I just feel like I have to?”
If the answer is you don’t actually want to, then practicing telling people “no” is very important in respecting yourself even with people you love. Many times not setting boundaries leads to resentment which is really damaging to relationships. Henry Cloud, psychologist and best-selling author, says, “Only we know what we can and want to give, and only we can be responsible for drawing that line. If we do not draw it, we can quickly become resentful.” I think this is very important to keep in mind when setting boundaries with family.
Question 3: What is a good response for when people say “anxiety means you’re not trusting God enough?”
I think people mean well when they say this phrase, but I think it can be invalidating and feel very minimizing of circumstances to those who are struggling. Anxiety is not a spiritual failure or a result of someone not trusting God enough. Anxiety can stem from various factors including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, life experiences, and stressful events. It’s a complex combination of biological and environmental factors that can lead to worry and fear. To say it means someone is not trusting God enough can be hurtful and minimize their experiences.
Question 4: Are attachment styles what we’re stuck with for life or can you grow out of unhealthy ones?
Attachment styles can be influenced by early experiences but they’re not set in stone. With the help of self-awareness, therapy, and healthy relationships, individuals can develop more secure attachment patterns over time. It’s possible to grow and change, fostering more secure and fulfilling connections with others.
Question 5: What is the biggest misconception about mental health today?
One of the biggest misconceptions about mental health is that it’s a sign of weakness or that people can simply “snap out of it” if they try hard enough. In reality, mental health issues are complex and often require professional support, understanding, and compassion.
Question 6: Does talking to someone truly help mental health? If so, how or why does it help?
There is research that supports the idea that labeling and articulating feelings reduces emotional distress. Talking about our feelings can actually help us feel better. Studies have shown that when we put our emotions into words, it calms down the part of our brain that makes us feel scared and stressed. Instead, it activates the part of our brain that helps us understand and make sense of things.
Question 7: What are some reasons mental health problems have been on the rise lately?
There are several factors that are contributing to the rise in mental health problems:
- Social Media: While social media has benefits, excessive use can lead to feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and anxiety, especially among younger generations.
- Isolation: Digitalization has led to increased isolation, reducing face-to-face interactions and support networks.
- Trauma: Events such as natural disasters, conflicts, or personal experiences of violence can contribute to mental health issues.
- Stigma Reduction: While the reduction in stigma surrounding mental health is positive, it may also lead to more people seeking help, therefore increasing reported cases.
Question 8: What would you say to someone struggling with mental health issues but they’re ashamed to admit it?
I would say that struggling with mental health doesn’t make you weak or flawed. It’s okay to ask for help, and reaching out doesn’t diminish your worth. There are people who care and professionals who can provide support and guidance. You’re not alone, and seeking help is a courageous step towards healing.
Conclusion
We hope these answers helped give you insight into mental health, life, and growth. If you’re struggling with your mental health, please know you’re not alone. We encourage you to seek professional help from a counselor when it’s needed. If you enjoyed Arielle’s answers, you can connect with her here. We hope you know you’re deserving to get the help you need!
