In fear and anxiety Finding Hope in the midst of... Part 1: loneliness and loss Part 2: discouragement and depression Part 3: fear and anxiety – today Part 4: defeat and addiction – next week There are times when anxiety is not a choice and “stop it” is bad advice Anxiety Disorders A group of mental disorders characterized by significant, prolonged feelings of anxiety & fear generalized anxiety disorder social anxiety disorder phobias such as agoraphobia separation anxiety panic disorder Anxiety Disorders #1 mental health problem for US women 17% of US population (50M) suffer each year 1/4 US adults will suffer one during their life Finding Hope In Anxiety 1. Talk about it with God, others, experts 1 Peter 5:6-7 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. Finding Hope In Anxiety 2. Identify the cause(s) if possible Genetics Past trauma Present danger Fear of the future Prolonged stress Medical issues Finding Hope In Anxiety 3. Fight negative self-talk “Beware of what you dwell on for that you shall surely become.” Ralph Waldo Emerson Finding Hope In Anxiety 3. Fight negative self-talk Truth Isaiah 40:28-31 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power… Isaiah 40:28-31 …Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary. Finding Hope In Anxiety 3. Fight negative self-talk Truth Gratitude Finding Hope In Anxiety 4. Take care of yourself Philippians 2:4 do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Finding Hope In Anxiety 4. Take care of yourself Live within your limits Take care of your body Pursue things that refresh you Finding Hope In Anxiety 5. Consider medication Finding Hope In Anxiety 1. Talk about it with God, others, experts 2. Identify the cause(s) if possible 3. Fight negative self-talk 4. Take care of yourself 5. Consider medication In fear and anxiety .