New York Times Best Selling Author John Green once said: “There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t.” October 10th is World Health Day, the goal of which is to raise awareness of mental illness around the world while also working to mobilize for various mental illnesses. According to the World Health Organization, this day was designed as an opportunity for potential stakeholders to partner with organizations and have a conversation on the work that needs to be done to make mental health care come to fruition worldwide.
The pandemic hit the world not only in the number of deaths from loved ones, but it also had a significant negative impact on the mental health of so many people worldwide. According to a poll that was conducted by Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation or the KFF, a non-profit organization, a startling amount of the data showed an increase in the young adults from the age of 18 to 24 experiencing a decline in their mental health. It was discovered that from the body of young adults that were surveyed, 56% reported having symptoms of anxiety and depression, 25% reported substance abuse, and 26% reported suicidal thoughts. 2020 was undoubtedly a challenging year, but you are not alone.
The Bible tells us repeatedly that the Lord is with us in everything that we do. One verse that reiterates that message is Isaiah 41:10, which says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand”. Life is going to get hard to the point that the walls feel like they are closing in. But never forget our Father in Heaven, the one that knew you during the 7 days of creation, sees you in your strife, and he will not turn his back on you.
There are a plethora of resources and support groups for students that are available if needed. The Grand Canyon University of Student Affairs makes several short-term options available for on-campus GCU students, such as individual counseling and group-crisis counseling. However, that is not the only option; an abundance of resourceful organizations are available when you feel like the battle can no longer be fought alone. Some of those resources include but are not limited to:
- National Institute of Mental Health
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
- American Psychiatric Association
- National Alliance of Mental Illness
- The Kim Foundation
While all those resources may seem easy in concept, it is the practice that serves to be challenging. It will not be easy in the fight against mental illness, but the victory is worth it. Take these words of Linda Poindexter to heart: “One small crack does not mean that you are broken; it means that you were put to the test and you didn’t fall apart.” There is hope at the end of the tunnel, and every step of the way, God is with you.
