Best Life 101

Taking Care of Our Mental Health

Experiencing the best life God has planned for us also entails taking care of our mental health rather than making excuses. When we justify our mistakes, we make excuses about our mental health; conversely, we sometimes use our mental health to justify our problematic behaviors. For example, we could say, “I had an illicit affair because I was depressed.” Or “I continue to drink because of my addiction.” While these may be valid reasons, they may become excuses if we refuse to accept responsibility for our mental health and put forth the effort to care for our psychological well-being.

When we refuse to seek professional help for our mental health, we make excuses such as “I’m too busy,” “It’s too expensive,” or “I’m afraid of being judged.”

The truth is that taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking a shower. Who among us is too busy to take a shower? At the same time, if we’re concerned about costs, mental health issues can be more costly in the long run. Early intervention is always beneficial and ideal. Furthermore, the judgment we fear may come from none other than ourselves.

If we want to enjoy the fullness of life God has promised us, we must be willing to take care of ourselves. God can use mental health providers to assist us in navigating our difficulties with our unhealthy cravings, allowing us to find deep and absolute satisfaction in God and by God alone.

Making New Habits

A new way of life necessitates a new set of habits. If the habit of making excuses enslaves us, it is time to break free by consciously creating new patterns. Studies have shown meditation to aid in the formation of new habits by increasing one’s awareness of automatic tendencies. It also increases self-control, and the ability to follow through on an intention. Understanding is essential in forming a new pattern. Through this, we must be able to catch ourselves. Be vigilant against automatically falling back into our old habits; after all, old habits die hard. Self-control is also essential because it prevents us from going our way. Finally, carrying out our intended action is critical in developing a new habit.

The next time we do our morning devotion and Bible meditation, we should be aware that we are not only spending time with God but also strengthening our ability to form new habits.