Let it Go

By Kaitlyn Anderson

It may be easier said than done, especially during this current time of viruses, economic uncertainty and fear. It is easy to submit to anxiety and giving up. Trust me, I get it. I suffer from anxiety, and it is easy to feel like I am in a dark place where there is no way out, but that is not the case. We are not alone in this battle - millions of people suffer from anxiety and depression, and some never get the help they need to conquer emotions and overcome anxiety. My friend, you are not alone, because God sees you and cares about you. The Bible says to cast all your cares on Him, because he cares for you. This is not just a quote to be tossed about like a good luck charm; this is a command from a loving and caring Father who not only sees you, but He made you.

With anxiety comes panic, worry, doubt and depression. In the book, Don’t give Up, Kyle Idleman says much of our anxiety results from the refusal to humble ourselves and ask God or anyone else for help. We feel like giving up because we have insisted on carrying the weight on our own. Think about some anxiety you’re dealing with and ask yourself, have I asked anyone to help me? This is important because in order to get better, we must realize that we are not meant to carry this burden alone; we must LET GO and let God carry it for us. There are several steps to fight anxiety.

1. Listening to music - for me, listening to music brings a sense of calmness and peace to my life. I love to sing and dance, but sometimes just listening to music can take my mind off whatever is bothering 2. me. I love a variety of music, but something that really brings peace to me is worship music. So, find a place where you can sit down, relax, and listen to your favorite songs. Let it ease your mind and take

you to a different peaceful place. Talking - Sometimes talking out issues to others can really help. I am blessed to have people in my life who care about me, and I can trust them. My mom is one of those people, but I also have a counselor. Being able to have someone listen without judgement is a great feeling.

3. Entertainment - Watching a favorite movie/tv show, playing a favorite game, or listening and dancing to a favorite song are fun and entertaining ways for distraction, providing new activity and taking the mind off worrying.

4. Going for a walk – Getting outside to walk in the neighborhood, go to a park, and get fresh air helps clear the mind. It gives space to sort things out and calms the body and mind.

5. Going to God - Talking to God has been a great way for me to express my emotions, although God knows everything before it even happens and is not surprised by how we feel. Knowing that He is listening and bringing me through it helps calm me, and it’s even more exciting and awesome when He shows you what He can do.