Health concerns, chronic pain, cancer, relationship challenges, caring for an aged parent, work difficulties… the list is endless. We all know we aren’t immune to stress. It’s a part of life. But, we don’t all respond in the same way. Some of us are ‘stress heads’. Some of us are ‘worriers’. However, we can make changes in our lives to manage the stresses in our lives in a more helpful manner. But how?
Keen to find out more about how to improve your mental wellbeing? Find out more about our ‘Press On: Building Resilience and Mental Wellbeing’ online course:
How do you usually respond to someone who is wrestling with spiritual concerns? We’re likely to listen, pray, offer care, counsel, and comfort from God’s word. But (very) occasionally, this is entirely the wrong approach. That’s because the need for ongoing reassurance may indicate an underlying mental health condition known as scrupulosity – a sub-type of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
“I don’t know how to relate. What will I say? I don’t understand them!” Have you thought this about a different generation? This article from Amy Yeung suggests a framework that could help us care well, no matter what generation someone is from.
Pastoral care takes place in many different contexts and capacities. You might offer care to those in your family, your friendship network and your church community. A toolbox of resources can equip you in these various contexts and roles.
Caring is not so much about fixing a need or solving a problem – it’s about showing up and being there as a willing servant of Christ. It lets another know they are seen and valued.
