Biblical Answer

The Impact of Daily Choices on Mental Health When Feeling Anxious

When we're feeling anxious, our daily choices can significantly impact our mental health. Research suggests that people who experience anxiety are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors, such as substance abuse, which can exacerbate mental health issues (61 percent risk of social phobia, 59 percent risk of suicide ideation, and 142 to 313 percent risk of substance abuse). Furthermore, anxiety can lead to feelings of shame, worthlessness, and fear, which can be debilitating and affect our relationships with others.

Our choices can either perpetuate or alleviate anxiety. For instance, choosing to engage in activities that promote spiritual growth, such as reading scripture or practicing generosity, can help replace anxiety with peace and trust in God (Proverbs 15:33). On the other hand, making choices that prioritize material comfort and security over spiritual well-being can reinforce anxiety and fear. As Jesus suggests in Matthew 6, true freedom from anxiety comes from trusting in God, not from trying to control circumstances or accumulate wealth.

Ultimately, our daily choices reflect our values and priorities. When we prioritize spiritual growth and well-being, we are more likely to experience peace and trust in God, even in the midst of anxiety. As Dr. Michelle Bengtson notes, "Worry, anxiety, and fear are considered essential features of depression." By choosing to focus on spiritual principles and practices, we can alleviate the spiritual symptoms of depression and anxiety, such as guilt, fear, and self-loathing, and experience greater peace and trust in God. As the Bible teaches, "God will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away" (Revelation 21:4). By making choices that prioritize spiritual growth and well-being, we can experience this kind of peace and freedom from anxiety.