Uneasiness and fear, I was anxious.

It took me almost a year to realize that I have been dealing with anxiety. Even typing that feels strange but I am certain that I am not alone. Throughout my pregnancy with Solomon I experienced various periods of uneasiness or fears of something going wrong. As each week passed, I would feel a sense of relief and then suddenly I would be worried about what could go wrong during the next phase of the pregnancy. This cycle of worry and relief continued throughout my entire pregnancy and after delivery.

After I had Solomon my struggle became more intense and I couldn’t hide it. During the first month or so, I found myself having these completely random episodes of uneasiness, fear, and uncontrollable tears. Everything would be fine one minute and then the next minute I felt tense, sweaty, and as if my heart was pounding, and then the tears would flow nonstop. I am so grateful for my husband, parents and my brother, they all supported me, encouraged me, and checked on me while providing assistance when needed and they continue to do so.

The Word of God tells us to “be anxious for nothing,” I obviously failed, but I am grateful that there is a comma and not a period.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” Philippians 4:6-8 NKJV

While I still struggle with being anxious from time to time, I am grateful that the Word of God gives me a few solutions.

Mental health is so important, and even more so in such uncertain times. While I do rely on my faith, I also acknowledge that God gave certain individuals the gift of wisdom to address mental health and I am in the process of seeking help in that area. If you are struggling with mental health of any type I encourage you to seek proper care. You are not alone and you don’t need to suffer in silence, there is help available. In the meantime, make your requests known to God and meditate on things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous and/or praiseworthy. ♥

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, here are a couple of resources obtained from www.mentalhealth.gov:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

1-800-273-TALK (8255)

If you or someone you know is suicidal or in emotional distress, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Trained crisis workers are available to talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your confidential and toll-free call goes to the nearest crisis center in the Lifeline national network. These centers provide crisis counseling and mental health referrals.

SAMHSA Treatment Referral Helpline

1-877-SAMHSA7 (1-877-726-4727)

Get general information on mental health and locate treatment services in your area. Speak to a live person, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST.