Anxiety

When I wrote my post on Christians and depression I received an alarming response that was overflowing with transparency. It was amazing to see people talk about a topic that is not talked about enough in the Christian community (IMHO). However, I noticed that along with depression the topic of anxiety came up quite a bit. In fact, many people admitted (either on the blog, on Facebook, or in person) that they were currently seeking counsel or on medication for both depression and anxiety. Some were just on medication for anxiety alone. Interestingly enough, they were all Christian friends.

Does depression bring anxiety? Or is it the other way around?

As you’ve probably read in my last post about depression, I was very transparent about my struggle with depression. However I didn’t expound on anxiety…and I have to admit that I’ve struggled with that as well. There have been nights that I have lacked sleep because of my anxiety and worry. I would feel completely overwhelmed, and stressed.

For me, anxiety is a state of restlessness, worry, second-guessing, high alert, and fear. I have experienced all of these symptoms at some point or another. Anxiety (just like depression) can impact your physical and mental health.

I am a human and I have worried, consequently that worry produced anxiety. Some may argue that some worry, or a sleepless night or two are “normal”.

In fact, who hasn’t worried at some point?!

However, what does the Bible say about anxiety?

 

I have read this passage over and over again, I’ve even used this scripture in my prayers. I love that peace can pass my own understanding. However I’ve never read it in the Amplified Version and when I found it I nearly fell off my chair! It says to make your specific requests known to God. It also says that peace will {not only} transcend my understanding but will STAND GUARD over my heart and mind! Ahhhhhh, folks I am so excited about this! I know I’ve read this a thousand times {in the KJV}, but it really spoke to me today.

This post is not about whether a Christian can experience depression or anxiety. We’ve established that they can. This post is about being transparent, telling our testimony, and learning how to overcome, so that we can teach others.

Have you experienced anxiety?