This is where you have permission to laugh.
Of course you have had a struggle!
We all go through tough times and question decisions along our path. Many of you have had life and death struggles with disease. WOW! That will rock your world. Some have had addictions, some have had physical trauma from accidents and some have had a struggle with a force unseen by the outside world. That may be the toughest struggle. When people can see the scars or know of the accident they are quick to offer sympathy. What about the struggles with emotions and the psychological issues that are not so visible. Then all of a sudden there must be something wrong with you.
While I firmly believe that many people use the excuse of psychological issues to benefit their cause, I know their are those who have problems bigger than their ability to cope.
Here is the point at which I provide the disclaimer, "I am NOT a counselor!" **
I have talked to many people who have psychological issues and have collaborated with mental health professionals during the pastoral counseling process. Which allows me to know just enough to know how little I know. During Seminary, our professors always reminded us to refer early. In other words, don't over step your role in the counseling process. Pastoral counseling has its place but unless you are educated and licensed to do so, leave the mental health issues to the mental health professionals.
Which brings me to the point I wanted to make, be supportive and don't try to diagnose.
If you have a friend who is going through a tough time, be supportive and encouraging. Don't try to tag them with a diagnosis and don't try to "fix" them. If you are concerned; suggest to them to seek professional help. If they suggest harming themselves or others, insist on getting them to a mental health professional. (Even if that means going to the Emergency Room.)
Being different or even weird does not make you crazy. At least that what I keep telling myself. Personalities come in all shapes and sizes. Than God that we are not all just alike.
Be a friend. Be supportive. Be a listener. Be quiet for a while. Be there. And if you are going to be there; be ALL there.
As a Christian, there are many thoughts that go through my mind when I think of mental illness. Scripture talks about it on many occasions. So, lets be sure we don't forget that we serve a God that is bigger than mental illness. Pray for your friends who are in the midst of a struggle. Pray that God touch their body, heart and mind.
I am saddened to hear of those who feel that they have no recourse but to take their own life.
I would be hurt even more if I thought a friend might hurt themselves and I said nothing.
Don't wait for a disaster to strike and wish you had said something.
For more info click here.
** A weekend course or a mail order certificate does not make you a counselor.
It makes you dangerous.
