Episode 55 - Anxiety

Anxiety is the most common mental illness, experienced by over 19% of adult Americans, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Additionally, the National Institute of Mental Health claims that some 31% of us will experience an anxiety disorder in our lifetimes. Brooklyn and Karen sit down and discuss their own struggles with anxiety and why we need to stop looking at anxiety as the enemy and instead embrace its call to turn toward Jesus in our weakness and fear. As always, we encourage you to process this episode with a trusted friend or small group. And, if you are struggling with anxiety, we encourage you to talk to a healthcare professional. Questions for discussion: Growing up, was there any talk of mental health issues in your home? What was the typical attitude toward mental health? Discuss the differences and similarities between stress and anxiety. Rebekah says, “Anxiety is a friend.” Can you see anxiety as a friend? Why/why not? Have you struggled with anxiety? What tactics have been most successful in helping you manage your anxiety? Is anyone brave enough to share something that causes them anxiety(or that has caused them anxiety in the past)? Can you work through the five whys together? (Identify the situation “I feel ____ when ____.” Then ask “why” five times to work backward to the root.) How can anxiety draw us closer to God? In Exodus 3, when Moses is feeling anxious about facing Pharoah and going before the Israelite leaders, God does not tell him not to fear the situation, God does not assure him of Moses' own abilities. God reassures Moses that He (God) will go with Him. How can we apply this to our own situations? How can a proper knowledge of God help us face anxiety? What step will you take this week to know God more so you can trust Him in times of anxiety and stress?