Fighting the War Against Anxiety and Depression


A battle is raging in the war for the hearts, minds, and souls of our children.  This battle is not one against drugs, sex, alcohol, or any of the other commonly identified enemies of our children.  This battle is against an opponent who rises from within our kids.  This battle is the one being fought against anxiety and depression. 
            Experts agree that both anxiety and depression are on the rise in adolescents.  Some parents may not witness their children experience either of these ailments, but chances are they will know someone whose children are caught in their grasp.  For this reason, every parent should have at least a basic understanding of how to aid someone trapped in the pit that is anxiety and/or depression.
            The prophet Elijah provides a framework by which Christians can work through their anxiety and/or depression (1 Kings 19:1-18).  Prior to this passage, Elijah had just defeated the prophets of Baal and witnessed God answer and defend him in a mighty way.  Rather than experiencing feelings of victory and elation, Elijah was overcome by dread that Jezebel would have him killed.  Elijah’s feelings of helplessness and impending doom convey to us that feelings of anxiety and depression can arise at any time, often at the most inconvenient or illogical times. 
            It is not uncommon for a person suffering from anxiety or depression to berate himself saying that for one reason or another he “shouldn’t feel this way.”  This is a damaging and, ultimately, fruitless process that only heaps guilt upon the suffering individual.  Instead, the person experiencing anxiety or depression should admit his feelings so that they can be worked through.[1]
            A common source of anxiety experienced by many young people today is the belief that they must please everyone.  Unfortunately, this belief is unachievable which often results in a child’s anxiety spiraling out of control.  Everyone must learn to accept the truth that they cannot please everyone and an attempt to do so is the very essence of futility.[2]  Parents can help their children accept this uncomfortable truth by communicating unconditional love, helping to grow their child’s confidence in himself, and reminding him of all those who have accepted him for who he is.
            Another source of stress and anxiety for young people today is the belief that they “have to.”  It is common to hear a student say that he “has to” do his homework, go to practice, and engage in social media with friends.  This belief that one “has to” can leave a child feeling as though he has no control over his life.  The reality is that there is very little in life that we as humans absolutely have to do.[3]  Certainly, choosing not to go to practice or do one’s homework will result in certain consequences, but these are not tasks that absolutely have to be completed.  Every action in life has a consequence, some good and others bad.  The realization that he can choose what consequences he experiences in life can have a freeing effect on a child.  Parents should reinforce a child’s understanding that he has the power to choose but should also help him evaluate the consequences associated with his choice.
            Acceptance of these life truths can help many young people avoid or overcome their feelings of anxiety or depression.  Some, however, may need more assistance.  1 Kings 19:1-18 offers some tips for how one can begin to work through his anxiety or depression.  These tips include:

1) Get proper rest (19:5-6)
2) Admit your feelings (19:4,14)
3) Have a balanced diet and consider taking a multi-vitamin (19:6-7)
4) Consider changing your current environment, even if it is a brief change (19:8-9)
5) Talk with someone who can help you evaluate your self-talk (19:14-17)

Some students may find the use of a counselor, therapist, or psychologist helpful in addressing their anxiety and/or depression.  These professionals can be helpful, but parents should take time to identify a mental health professional who can work well with their child.  There are two basic ways the brain is viewed in modern psychology.  One believes the brain to be strong and capable of overcoming challenges.  The other proposes that the brain is weak and must be treated carefully, lest it break.  The viewpoint your mental-health professional adheres to will affect the treatment your child receives.
As Christians, there is one last lesson to learn from 1 Kings 19 and it is perhaps the most important.  Look for God in the midst of the chaos.  Elijah heard the voice of God, not in the fire or great wind, but in a quiet whisper.  Anxiety and depression can feel like a hurricane raging out of control.  When this occurs, remember that God has promised that He will be with us and never forsake us.  God is always working and is always looking after those who love Him but in the midst of the chaos we must choose to look for Him.  When we do look for Him we will discover that He is right there in the midst of the hurricane fighting for us.

[1] Chris Thurman, The Truths We Must Believe: Twelve Timeless Principles for Confident Living, (Thomas Nelson: Nashville, 1991), 34-43.
[2] Ibid, 45-52.
[3] Ibid, 52-64.

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