By Nancy Virden (c)2020
Choose your answers between the two options in each line. Which gives you more of a sense of hope and wellbeing?
Watching/reading the news…………listening to music
Getting your fix (any addiction)…………calling your sponsor
Engaging in compulsive behaviors………….going over the 12-steps
Losing your temper…………deep breathing
Television…………finishing chores or working on a project
Lying/cheating…………earning respect though honesty
Worrying about the virus…………helping someone else cope
Violence in games, movies, etc………….read a (non-violent) good book
Worrying about politics/watching political ads…………playing a board game with friends online
Hurting yourself…………doing something kind for yourself
Writing out all your problems in a journal…………writing about gratitude
Coping is sometimes about what we invite into our days. If we do not feel positive, acting opposite by nurturing what generally makes us feel better is a baby step toward freedom from depression, anxiety, and general negativity.
Today’s Helpful Word
Philippians 4:4-9
The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair.
*** COMMENTS ALWAYS WELCOME
NOTE: I am not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speak only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.
If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.
If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!