There were seasons in my life when the weight of everything I had been through felt unbearable. Trauma, loss, and emotional pain have a way of staying with you, sometimes quietly, sometimes all at once.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I now understand how deeply our experiences shape both the mind and body. But long before I had the clinical language to explain it, I had something else that carried me through: my faith.
This isn’t just a professional perspective, it’s personal. And especially during Easter, a season centered on renewal and hope, I find myself reflecting on how faith played a role in my healing. I can genuinely share that healing my mind through faith has been my own journey throughout life. My faith has gotten me to the pinnacle of my career and has put me where I am today.
From Pain to Purpose
My journey includes trauma, neglect, and abuse, hardships that left deep scars. There were times I truly thought about giving up. But something very personal and very powerful kept me going: my faith.
At just five years old, after being adopted, I started going to church with my new family. That’s when I was introduced to Jesus. I was told He would be my best friend, and He truly became just that.
A Constant Source of Strength
As my relationship with Jesus grew, I discovered a steady source of comfort, trust, and support. In my darkest moments, I turned to Him. I cried out on tear-soaked pillows and asked for strength. And He gave it to me, day after day, moment by moment.
It was my faith in Jesus that helped me get up each morning. It was His strength that carried me through the toughest seasons of my life. I am not a statistic, not because of anything I did alone, but because of Him. That’s why I share my story today, especially during this Easter season, a time when many of us reflect on our spiritual connection to God.
Why I Chose Mental Health
Because of everything I’ve overcome, I chose to become a mental health professional. I understand firsthand what it’s like to struggle, and I also know what it’s like to rise above it. I didn’t fall into the common traps that so many with traumatic pasts do; I never turned to drugs, alcohol, or other methods of self-harm to numb my pain.
That’s not because I’m better than anyone who has. It’s because I had access to something greater. I had Jesus. His presence gave me strength and healing, where the world only offered temporary fixes. And now, I want to help others find hope, too.
Faith and Mental Health: A Clinical Perspective
From a mental health perspective, healing often requires both internal and external support. While therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes are essential tools, many people also find strength through spiritual connection.
Practices like prayer, reflection, and faith-based community can reduce feelings of isolation, provide meaning, and support emotional regulation.
In my work, I’ve seen how integrating faith with mental health care can create a more holistic path toward healing.
You Are Not Alone
If you’re reading this and you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone. I may not be able to answer why bad things happen or why life feels so heavy sometimes, but I puede tell you this: there is someone who can carry you through it all. I’m living proof of that.
So as we head into this weekend, I encourage you to reach deep within yourself and reflect on your own spiritual relationship with the Lord. Let Him be your counselor, your comfort, your hope. Life may not always change immediately, but with God, the weight becomes easier to bear.
Nurturing Your Spiritual Health
There’s so much to be said about how improving your spiritual health can positively impact your mental health. Making time for God, whether through prayer, devotionals, or worship, can bring clarity, peace, and renewed strength.
One of my favorite ways to connect with God is through devotionals. A book that’s deeply special to me is Jesus Calling. It has an incredible way of speaking directly to my heart, especially on days when I need it most.
Worship is another powerful tool. I love listening to music, praising God, and letting the joy of worship fill me with peace. Whether it’s a quiet moment in the morning or singing along to your favorite song, these spiritual practices feed your soul, and in doing so, they support your mental wellness.
Ways to Strengthen Your Faith and Mental Well-Being
- prayer / quiet reflection: Just 10 minutes of a conversation with God could help bring peace.
- journaling: This is a great time for meditation and channeling your spiritual wellness.
- worship/music: This is a great way to find peace for your soul.
- community/church: Fellowship can be healing.
Feed Your Spirit, Heal Your Mind
Whatever your spiritual practice looks like, make sure you’re feeding your spirit. Because when your spirit is nourished, your mind and heart begin to heal too.
You don’t have to go through life alone. Let God be the light in your darkest moments, just like He’s been for me.
