by Jason Babu
A shocking tragedy happened on 17 September 2023, at Chennai District, Tamil Nadu, India. It was reported that 16 year old Meera, the daughter of the well-known actor and musician, Vijay Anthony, allegedly died by suicide at her residence. She was a year 12 student and was reportedly BATTLING STRESS.
Many young people studying in High School or College say, “You see, my problem was that I only have a short time to finish my assignment, my project, and on top of that, I must prepare for my exam. I’m so tired and don’t know how to handle all these things. I’M STRESSED!” Many people today are holding back tears and are mad at themselves. Why? Because they feel helpless fighting their stress alone instead of working with someone to help solve their problems.
The Oxford Dictionary defines stress as, “Mental pressure – pressure or worry caused by problems in somebody’s life or by having too much to do. Physical pressure – physical pressure put on something that can damage it or make it lose its shape.”
We understand that stress or depression can cause unusual demands on a person’s body and mind. So, what can we do in order to cope with stress? There are numerous ways to handle it.
1 – Relax
Do something to get your mind off the problems. Regular exercise can be relaxing, especially to your body. If you continually dwell on your problems, they can be stressful. Gentle exercise like cycling, brisk walking, swimming, etc., may help overcome stress. Spend time with your friends and family. Maybe go shopping or just walk around in the park, or simply get enough good sleep. Having time to relax can help you have better peace of mind.
2 – Time Management
Another reason why young people face stress is because they do not know how to manage their time. Make a schedule/timetable of your everyday activities. Remember, each person is different so ensure your schedule works for you. If not, it is a big waste of time! Once you make a schedule, ensure you stick to it. Be consistent and committed to daily classes, assignments, preparing for examinations, extra curriculums, and social activities. Everyone has 24 hours in a day, but some people use their time better than others. Therefore, time management will help you to maximise your time and minimise your stress; it will help you avoid cramming everything together.
3 – Get help from your Parents
One of the most important relationships is between parents and children. Counselling with your parents can help you in dealing with stress and problems. They certainly can guide and support you with the challenges you face in life. Remember, your parents have gone through good and bad experiences and many challenges. They have a lot of wisdom to share with you! My wife and I were blessed with two daughters who are in their teens. God’s word is clear on many principles. We aim to teach our children these values and it is pleasing when they come to us and seek guidance when they face problems.
4 – Get help from God
Many years ago, the late Mr Herbert W. Armstrong in his booklet, ‘Seven Laws of Success’, explained that the most important key to success and happiness is to have ‘close contact with God’. If you deeply ask for help when you pray, God will help you to overcome stress (Proverbs 3:5-6). The Bible gives many words of encouragement from wise people like King Solomon. The books of Psalms and Proverbs can be a great place to study. Here are a few scriptures that can encourage you: Psalm 55:22, Psalm 46:1, Psalm 6:9-10, Proverbs 16:3, Proverbs 8:35. God promises to bless with His strength and peace of mind, but you must believe and have faith in God’s word and promises. God promises not to leave nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). Therefore, it is up to us to believe there is a true God in heaven who is watching over us and always wants to hear from His children who are seeking Him day and night.
Stress and mental depression are global issues in today’s world. These issues lead to more health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and many others. These problems often result from many factors such as environment, family, society, spirituality, and personal challenges.
The prophet Isaiah described that the Messiah is going to “heal the broken hearted” (Isaiah 61:1). Jeremiah wrote, “I will turn their mourning to joy; will comfort them, and make them rejoice rather than sorrow” (Jeremiah 31:13).
Finally, Jesus Christ is going to setup His Kingdom to meet the needs of those who battle with stress, depression, and mental problems. Jesus Christ along with His saints are going to heal the world and bring abundance and eventually the world will be a ‘Stress-Free Society’.
-Nothing is permanent. Do not stress yourself too much, because no matter how bad the situation is, it will change-
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