Anxiety and Christianity
When someone says the word anxiety, what do you think of? Many people lump the words nervous and anxious together even though those words have two different meanings. Nervous is defined by the Cambridge English dictionary as being “worried or slightly frightened.” We all get nervous from time to time, and that is perfectly normal. When the situation is over, we go about our lives.
Being anxious is a response that involves a greater intensity and does not necessarily go away when the situation changes. The thoughts bombard a person, and you can feel just as overtaken about the thoughts as being in certain situations. Sometimes the feeling comes when we do not expect it as pure panic.
Anxiety Further Defined
We were designed to be anxious. We were created to be anxious in certain situations as a way to protect us. Being anxious can cause us to not enter certain situations. It can also take over in moments when we need to respond before we think.
The amygdala was created to take over when we enter a situation that suddenly becomes dangerous. The size of an almond its goal is to keep us alive. There are times, though, the body thinks that it is in danger even when it is not. A similar situation, smell, taste, etc. can make the amygdala think that there is danger present and react. If someone asks you why you are anxious and you cannot tell them why, then you become more discouraged.
Anxiety and Christianity
For those in religious circles you might of experienced various responses if you have disclosed your anxiety to others. Scripture might have been quoted. While Scripture can be a source of encouragement, sometimes how it is given by others can feel like a slap in the face. Being told that the Bible says not to worry or be anxious can be hard to hear, especially during moments of anxiety or panic. Maybe this has caused you to question your faith entirely.
Do not lose heart, because a person’s faith is more than how others perceive us.
Deep Breathing
When feeling nervous of anxious deep breathing can help. Breathing in through your nose to a count of 4 and then breathing out through your mouth to a count of 6 will slow your heart rate down. If you have heart or lung problems consult your physician if in doubt.
If this does not work there are others ways to practice deep breathing. There is not one way that works for every person.
Meditating
While this word can be a source of controversy in some faiths meditating is focusing one’s mind on something (Oxford Languages). Some chant while others focus on a Scripture that is specific to their situation. For example, if wanting peace or being still focusing on a verse that speaks on that can be comforting.
Support Groups
There are support groups that focus on anxiety and other forms of mental health difficulties. Some are secular based and there are also those with a religious component as well. Being with others can help remind you that you are not alone.
Getting Help
Maybe you feel that you have done things to try and rid yourself of the anxiety and it is still here. Know that you are not alone. Going to your doctor and finding a counselor can help you develop the skills and extra support that you need to move through this.
Getting help does not mean that you are weak or lack faith. It just means that you need some extra help to get through a challenging part of your life.
You do not have to walk alone.