“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.” – Matthew 6:31-33
Not all anxiety comes out of nowhere. While sometimes we’ll find ourselves feeling nervous or anxious without any identifiable reason, in many cases, anxiety sprouts from real-world worries or fears.
While everyone has times where they feel stress or pressure from life, excessive and ongoing anxiety that is difficult to control can be signs of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). 6.8 million adults suffer from generalized anxiety disorder (though the condition can start in childhood as well), with women being twice as likely to experience GAD.
Where to Begin
Only ~48% of people with symptoms of GAD receive treatment. If you are or suspect you may be showing symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, you’re not alone and there are a variety of resources and support systems to help you find stability and restore your mental health.
Despite your temptations to visit doctor Google, internet searches can oftentimes leave you feeling more stressed about your situation. If GAD or any of its symptoms are interfering with your everyday life, it’s time to seek professional help.
Medical Support
The best place to start is by getting a medical examination. A health care professional is equipped to ask the right questions and determine the best treatment for you that takes into consideration the severity of your symptoms, your beliefs, and other relevant life circumstances that may dictate necessary and available care.
If you are unable to receive medical treatment for one reason or another (e.g., health insurance problems or financial difficulties), reach out to a nonprofit organization or local ministry that specializes in mental health and ask what recommendations they have regarding next steps.
Spiritual Care
As you find support through medical care, it’s also vitally important that you prioritize your spiritual health in this season. The state of your heart influences the rest of your being—mind and soul. Lean into God as you give yourself the grace and space to heal.
Ask the Lord to give you peace and endurance for the journey ahead. Pray that He would surround you with people who are willing to and want to walk with you through the highs and lows. Every part of your being is connected—ensuring your spirit is resilient and thriving will radiate into every area of your life.
Daily Rhythms
Because generalized anxiety is often connected to tangible parts of life (finances, career, family, school, friends, etc.), you will find great benefit from implementing daily rhythms that promote mental, physical, and spiritual health.
Consider things like: When is the best time for me to spend time with God, morning or evening? Do I feel better if I wake up early or allow myself the chance to unwind a little bit later at the end of the day? When I find my anxiety beginning to creep in, do I have a plan for how to respond? (more on this in chapters 5 and 7).
No day is going to be perfect, and you may never be completely impervious to anxiety. But with the right tools, steadfast determination, and bold faith, you can be sure that God will equip you to combat your anxiety. Day by day, He will provide peace that surpassess understanding (Philippians 4:7), grow you to spiritual maturity, and renew your mind.
Don’t lose heart and do your best to not worry about tomorrow. Focus on today and the new mercies that it brings. God is walking with you and He will give you everything you need.
