In the last blog post I shared my testimony of how I struggled to balance mental health during my engagement leading up to the wedding. You can read that post here. Through my struggle God showed me a few things that have helped enrich my marriage and improve my mental health. I’d love to share those with you:
Practical Tips For Looking After Your Mental Health in Marriage
1. Acknowledge Your Mental Health
The first step in navigating your mental health is to acknowledge and accept your struggles. Understand that mental health challenges, such as anxiety, are not a reflection of weakness but are common experiences that many face. And let’s get one thing straight, it does not mean you lack faith or that you’re a bad Christian. Admitting that you’re struggling is never easy. The world has taught us to be hard as nails and to only show our best side. Well, newsflash, we are all broken people that’s why we need Jesus the restorer and saviour!
2. Be Honest and Transparent with your spouse
God has given you your spouse for many reasons, they are a helpmeet in more ways than one! Remember that your spouse is not a mind reader and won’t always know how you are feeling. You don’t need to fake a smile with them, pretending you’re ok if you’re not. And shutting them out isn’t the answer either. Your spouse loves you even when you feel unlovable. They want to help and support you in any way they can, but they can’t support if you’re not being honest or transparent about your mental and emotional health.
3. Seek God's Guidance
We have the privilege of turning to God in prayer and seeking His guidance through His word. Take time to connect with God through prayer, Bible study, and meditation. Commit verses to memory that will encourage you through dark days. Lean on His promises and seek His peace on your own but also with your spouse. There’s power in a praying spouse, and hearing them pray for you can bring instant peace. Remember that God is always present, ready to provide comfort and strength during moments of anxiety or distress.
4. Practice Self-Care in a safe space
Taking care of your mental health requires prioritising self-care for you and for your relationship. Engage in activities that bring you joy, relaxation, and peace, both with your spouse and on your own. This can include spending time in nature, worshipping and fellowshipping, engaging in regular exercise, or pursuing creative outlets. Remember that self-care is not selfish but necessary for your overall well-being, allowing you to be present and fully engage in your marriage.
5. Intentionally Connect with Each Other
Creating a safe space where you can share your anxieties and worries without judgment is crucial, but it’s hard to do with someone you feel distant to. Intentionally find time each day to spend quality time together. Date nights don’t always require spending money, they just require you both to be present! Together, seek ways to support each other's mental well-being, whether it's doing something fun and spontaneous, engaging in stress-relieving activities, or finding solace in shared moments of prayer. If your relationship has been struggling, consider attending Christian therapy together.
As a Christian navigating mental health challenges within marriage, remember that you are not alone. By acknowledging your struggles, being honest with your spouse, seeking God's guidance, practicing self-care, and showing some intentionality, you can find solace and strength in God's unwavering love. Trust that He will guide you through the darkest times, helping you overcome anxiety and fostering a thriving and fulfilling marriage.
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About The Author
Illustrator/animator who loves all things Christian Apparel. I have a passion for sharing the love of God through my art and my testimony.