By Lisa Smith
St. Raphael Counseling
In today’s fast-paced world, anxiety has become a prevalent issue affecting millions of people. From the pressures of work and relationships to the constant stream of information and expectations, many people find themselves overwhelmed and consumed by worry. At St. Raphael Counseling, a ministry of Catholic Charities, we understand the profound impact anxiety can have on one’s mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. Let’s explore the intersection of anxiety and the human desire for control, offering insights and guidance for finding peace in surrender.
Understanding Anxiety: Anxiety is a natural human response to stress or perceived threats. While occasional feelings of anxiousness are normal, persistent and excessive worry can develop into anxiety disorders, affecting one’s ability to function in daily life. Anxiety can stem from a variety of sources, including fear of the unknown, traumatic experiences, chronic stress, imbalances in brain chemistry and negative thinking patterns. However, it is important to recognize that experiencing anxiety does not indicate a lack of faith or weakness but rather points to the human condition.
The Desire for Control: At the heart of anxiety often lies a deep-seated desire for control. In a world filled with uncertainty, we seek to grasp onto anything that offers a sense of security. However, this relentless pursuit of control can lead to increased anxiety as we realize the limitations of our human abilities. The desire for control can also reflect a lack of trust in God’s plan for our lives. As St. Augustine wrote, “Trust the past to the mercy of God, the present to His love, and the future to His providence.”
Surrendering to God’s Will: Central to our faith is the concept of surrendering to God’s will. Jesus Christ himself exemplified this surrender in his prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, saying, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). We are called to emulate Christ’s trust and obedience, giving up our desire for control and placing our faith in God’s loving providence. This act of surrender does not imply passivity or resignation but rather an active and intentional submission to God’s plan for our lives.
Practical Strategies for Finding Peace: Here are five practical strategies to find peace in our struggles:
1. Prayer: Set aside time each day for prayer and reflection. Connect with God through scripture, spiritual books and adoration. I found my favorite scripture while reading at Mass one weekend during a hard time in life. I wrote it on a few notecards and kept one in my purse, car and on my bathroom mirror and would read it out loud every time I felt overwhelmed. “Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you” ( Philippians 4: 6-9). I love it because it tells us what not to do – be anxious – but also tells what we CAN do to have peace. It is perfection!
2. Sacramental Life: Participate actively in the sacramental life of the Church, receiving the Eucharist and Reconciliation regularly for spiritual nourishment and healing.
3. Mindfulness and Self-Care: Mindfulness techniques allow us to stay present in the moment and focus on what we can control. Box breathing, progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery can help promote a sense of calm. Self-care activities such as exercise, hobbies and spending time in nature promote emotional and mental well-being.
4. Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from St. Raphael’s Counseling.
5. Community Support: Surround yourself with a supportive community of family, friends and fellow believers who can offer encouragement, understanding and prayer during difficult times.
Anxiety can be a strong adversary, but it doesn’t have to define or control us. By anchoring ourselves in faith, surrendering our worries to God and embracing uncertainty with courage and trust, we can find peace and serenity amidst life’s challenges. Remember, you are not alone in your struggles, and God’s love and grace are ever-present to sustain and guide you on your journey towards healing and wholeness.
