This is the second post in a 3-part series on Anxiety. So many women are plagued by anxious thoughts and feel isolated in their struggles. We hope to bring unity through these posts and healing by sharing personal testimonials, resources and a therapist's response. Please join us in this conversation so we can kindly come alongside and help one another deal with life in ways that bring God glory. Don't forget to read and share last week's post: How Allowing God to Use Your Anxiety Can Set You Free. Comments from therapists are meant to further our conversation, but not intended as medical or professional advice.
Anxiety has been an unwelcome friend for as long as I can remember. I can think back to moment after moment where I felt like I was in the center of a hurricane and could not get out. I felt like I was spinning and then starting to drown. The tears would come and would not stop. Then the guilt would kick in; the “I know better than this,” “why is this so hard for me,” and “how did I get to here again.” My stomach is in knots just thinking about it.
Anxiety is still something I am susceptible to, but I no longer feel I’m in the eye of the storm. I am so grateful the Lord has put His Word, His people, and Christian resources at my disposal. Sometimes I sought these out; other times the conversations and resources fell into my lap.
Here are a few of the resources I have found helpful:
1. BE TRANSFORMED: DISCOVERING BIBLICAL SOLUTIONS TO LIFE’S PROBLEMS
Anxiety is a symptom of a bigger issue. This study by Scope Ministries painfully and graciously walked me through realizing my core problem. My dear mentor and friend, Millicent Gillogly, played a vital part in my journey through this study. I would highly recommend this resource for use in a discipleship relationship.
2. TRUSTING GOD EVEN WHEN LIFE HURTS BY JERRY BRIDGES
Bridges says, “Trusting God is written for the average Christian who has not necessarily experienced major catastrophe but who does frequently encounter the typical adversities and heartaches of life.” I really cannot put into words how this book has affected me during seasons of my life accompanied by anxiety. I have read it at least three or four times over the last 11 years, if that helps paint a picture.
3. CALM MY ANXIOUS HEART: A WOMAN’S GUIDE TO FINDING CONTENTMENT BY LINDA DILLOW
A college mentor directed me towards this book when I was really struggling with a season of my life looking a lot different than I thought it should. Cue the anxiety. Linda Dillow challenges the reader to “let go of your anxiety and experience the contentment that comes from trusting God”.
If you would like to hear more of my journey or more about any of these and other resources, feel free to contact me at caseymyates@gmail.com.
What have you found helpful in dealing with anxiety? Any resources or experiences you’d be willing to share?
Meet the Author!
Casey Yates is a wife, mom, daughter, sister, friend and speech-language pathologist. Casey loves all things Christmas, British historical fiction, walks, pie and coffee. Lots of coffee.
