Episode 105: The Anxiety Epidemic w/ Amanda Moore, LPC
The word anxiety has dominated conversations and lives more now than any other past generation. Why? Perhaps it’s because of the constant influx of media and pressures to compare and perform. Amanda points us to some interesting research that highlights the younger generation’s view of God tends to be interpreted in a critical and harsh way. When we view God as harsh or critical, it’s difficult to find a path of hope through the pulse of anxiety.
In 1 Samuel 1:4-7 we see a clear picture of anxiety. Hannah is the second wife to her husband Elkanah (already a recipe for anxiety!) She has tried for years to get pregnant but remains barren, and to make matters worse - her rival wife torments and bullies her.
Life circumstances that converge on a wound or tender part of our lives can result in anxiety. This is where we need to acknowledge the root of the emotion and learn to redirect our reactions to the thoughts causing anxiety.
Hannah has another problem to deal with in addition to the taunting wife. Her husband is completely unaware of the extent of her pain. This adds to anxiety and leads to further isolation. When people say things like, “Shouldn’t you be thankful for all you have rather than feeling anxious?” - it makes things worse. Getting help from a counselor or finding safe people to talk with is essential. Reaching out to God in a way that shows you can’t hide the pain any longer and that you’re desperate for change is also a good move towards overcoming anxiety.
In I Samuel 1:9-18 we see Hannah move through 4 stages of breakthrough:
1. She prays, “I’m afflicted and I’m crying out!” She admits to her pain and tells God she can’t take it anymore.”
2. She states that she will have a role in this breakthrough. In her case, she offers the son she’s praying for back to God for His service. It’s not a bargain-type prayer, but rather, a prayer of commitment and action.
3. She doesn’t care who is watching or what people think.
4. She realizes (verse 18) that God has moved and she’s no longer reacting the same way.
Amanda encourages those struggling with anxiety to seek out a good group or counselor, commit to prayer, and remember to do the things we know contribute to a healthy lifestyle, such as exercise, sleeping, and eating well. God is not a God of confusion, and He will overcome what’s holding you in anxiety and bring His peace.
GUTSY FAITH RESOURCES:
If you’re looking for a faith-based licensed counselor, look no further! We have teamed up with Amanda Moore to help you grow in your spiritual, emotional, and mental health. To schedule a FREE CONSULTATION with Amanda, visit wonderchristiancounseling.com.
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