In March this year, I tried to take my life because I couldn't take life with bipolar disorder and depression anymore. I lost sight of my Savior, and I'm struggling to find comfort. My parents are my strength right now, and I'm trying very hard not to see my life in black and white, as total failure or complete success. Adam fell that men might be, and men are that they might have joy. I hope I can find joy in this life.
A tool to help find Joy in this life - Take a cheap copy of the Book of Mormon, circle every instance of the word "Joy" that you find while reading it. Reflect on how it was that they had Joy in such difficult times, what did those ancient people do to obtain Joy? Alma 27 verse17-18 - "the joy of Ammon was so great ... even to the exhausting of his strength..."
I've lost 3 children to mental health issues and I pray each day to have them back in the gospel life I love. It's up to the Lord, we all need compassion. 🙏
Dear sister, you have not lost them. They are not lost to their Redeemer. Each person has their own path. And God is on that path with them. He doesn’t leave them alone. Only He knows what it is to be them. Our part is to love. Very often it is necessary to “Detach from them with love,” and place them (in our hearts) in God’s hands. He will not forsake them. They are each one engraven on the palms of His hands. This is what I know now.
Depression is a constant dog at my heels. Sometimes I get it to sit and stay and not bother me, but sometimes it comes barking in my face and refuses to be quieted. The Spirit pulls me up at those times and keeps me from taking the final, fatal step into irreversible darkness. I have a testimony of the light of Christ making my life worth living, even in the depth of struggle and pain and depression. Christ will always love us. He knows us better than we know ourselves.
I used to think that people with depression were making excuses. I thought it wasn't a real thing. I thought people wanted something to blame other than their own failures and weaknesses to justify not getting things done or being lazy. But on my mission, I suffered from depression and anxiety. I thought a lot of the same things about myself, that I was just making excuses to be lazy and that I should just get to work, but I was so sad and couldn't make myself do anything. The mission president's wife sent me to the mission counselor who diagnosed me with severe anxiety and extreme depression, but I didn't believe her at first. I thought she was telling me something that would help me shift the blame away from myself and make it easier for me to make excuses. But when I did finally accept her diagnosis, it made things a lot easier. Not because I had something to blame for my laziness. But because I understood myself better and I could be more kind to myself. And I knew it wasn't because I was a horrible lazy person who just wouldn't do what I was supposed to do even when I knew I should. I was someone who kept trying to work and push through something very hard and debilitating and who didn't give up. This experience taught me not only that depression is real, but so are everyone's struggles, problems, and trials, even if I don't understand them.
I was diagnosed with depression 3 years ago and to this day I still find myself thinking those same things, that I'm just finding excuses to be lazy and not get things done. It takes practice to fight those thoughts.
I have anxiety, panic attacks, ptsd, and depression. But through the atonement of Jesus Christ, peace does come most days. I still have these issues, but my Savior helps because HE understands us and especially me. I take meds and therapy also
Mental illness is so rampant these days I know many people on medication, I myself have battled with depression, anxiety, panic attacks until I found out I had a mutation on my genes that actually is the cause of my illness which did not manifest itself until I had a major time of stress when my husband was diagnosed with cancer and died. This mutation which affects more than 40% of the population is related to the methylation paths which makes the happy neurotransmitters like Serotonin when you are positive to the mutation you don't produce much of this neurotransmitter, there are treatments that really work without the use of pharmaceutical meds which are very harmful, just find a practitioner that knows about MTHFR mutations and take it from there with some supplements that are crucial to this methylation path your symptoms will improve. I wish you well on your journey it is a very difficult path but with the help of our Lord we can conquer anything.
It’s so hard to accept a challenge you can’t run away from. I have gone through exactly what you have. And it’s so nice to know I’m not alone. You have a voice that’s going to help so many. Thank you for your words
This is such a beautiful and real message. I can't thank you enough for sharing this and helping me realize more, the importance of seeing people as Christ sees them. None of us was sent here to fail, but none of us will escape the trials of mortality, and loving one another through these times is the way Christ would have us love each other. The older I get the more I agree with the statement that seeing people in black and white is inaccurate. The high definition view is what I will be striving for in everyone!
My teen son has dealt with violent mental health since a toddler. The journey has been so difficult and heartbreaking. It continues to be severely difficult, leaving me lost emotionally. Through it all, though, I have learned so many unique perspectives to see my son with value and even potential. I still pray daily that my son can accept and understand God in some way that has proven inaccessible to him. I have learned to also pray for how I can use my unique experiences/thoughts to reach and lift those going through what I am. To do that, I have had to learn to lift myself first. Thank you for this video. So much.
Thanks Julie. I have also struggled greatly with depression for over a decade now. I have had numerous times where I was ready to end my life. It is the love of the people in my life who have pulled me back from the edge over and over again. And to add to what you said about trying to ask yourself humanizing questions about people who may be on the other end of conflict, one truth I've arrived at repeatedly in my life is...we cannot live in a world where being right is more important than being kind. This doesn't mean to compromise your standards, or your values. It just means that there are more important things than being "in the right". Compassion, forgiveness. Love.
I have the EXACT same experience. Down to the T with having a panic attack because of my boss/job and mental illness runs in my family too. THANK YOU SO MUCH. I was asking God for a sign that he’s there and still cares about me.. as I have felt so incredibly lonely and depressed lately. This is my sign. Thank you again.
CPTSD covers both depression & anxiety. Being reminded of past dark trauma experiences, it's like a cloud of darkness sweeps over me - making all my efforts of trying to keep true to my covenants meaningless. But it's especially during those dark times that I've had to truly call on Him, trying hard to ground myself to avoid suicidal ideation triggers. The times where I've begged Heavenly Father to remove this bitter cup from Me, I've received the reassuring comfort of the Spirit reminding me - I am not alone. Looking at each day, reminding myself that I'm still breathing, I'm still standing - I am of worth. For myself, it's taken a lot of dark experiences like this in order to see & feel His Light. I've learnt to follow my heart, the Spirit, during times when my head is troubled during these mental health battles - even needing to sleep due to fatigue of an endless battle. But rest assured, I know I've drawn near to Him during these dark times - feeling Him carry Me during these trials. I can testify that He is near. Life is worth the good fight. For anyone else who witnesses people like myself experiencing mental health battles - be that friend. Listen to understand. Listen without judgement. Listen with charity.
These videos are pretty remarkable. This one and others like it are so real. We aren't living in a life as simple as black and white. There are challenges in our lives, mistakes that we'll make, and sorrows we will feel. But there is one who can lift us up. Come, Follow Him.
Mental illness is a real challenge for so many people throughout the world. Thank you for talking openly about your struggles. From personal experience, I know that we can be trying to do everying right and still suffer intense bouts of depression.
Thank you for saying that you weren't just healed from depression, but through christ you learned to see light even with depression and anxiety. Acceptance that i'm not just a completely broken person because of my anxiety and depression is something that I've been working on so much with my therapist. It gives me hope that with christ we can learn to accept those parts of ourselves and still have light in our lives.
I agree with this and I also think it gets confused with “pray and read scriptures MORE and you won’t have any problems” which is not true all of the time.
But don't forget to give back, too! I had some silence hit me for a while..I realized it was because I was being selfish and only asking..I needed to start giving back, too❤
I have not experienced mental health issues, either depression or anxiety, so I can't relate exactly, but this helps me understand a little more those who do.
I too have struggled with mental illness. I was not diagnosed properly till I was 46 years old. The diagnosis was a hard hit to me as I was in denial. But with my acceptance and a desire to learn about my illness I have completely changed. I did not have the luxury of medication that would help me. The only help for me was learning how to manage my illness. I learned that the only person who could help me was God. I began to desire to have God and the Saviour as my centre. I began a long journey back to them and it was truly miraculous. I learned that while this illness often felt like a curse, I realized that it was gift! With management I could use this illness to help others. With my reliance on Christ to help me, this illness was truly a gift! I saw my illness as a scourge that would bring me to remembrance. I changed my view as I embraced my I,ness as a way to remind me to rely on my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Yes, I still have bad days, but I know they will pass. My journey has brought me to God and His Son and I have gained strong testimonies of them and their love for me. I truly believe that this illness has saved my life. I don’t define myself through this illness. I don’t even think of myself as ill anymore. I am just grateful to be me and I am grateful for all my challenges as they bring me closer to God and keep me closer to Him. I have great compassion for others who suffer and I also try to uplift and bring hope to those who feel there is no hope due to their mental challenges. I feel LUCKY to be me and blessed to have an illness that reminds me often that God and the Saviour have the power to heal and help me...we all can find hope and healing when we turn to the Saviour and our Heavenly Father. Of this I know!
pleaee prayer for my parents my father is paralized and my mom have cancer last stage please remember my father and mother in praying jesus Christ given long and healthful life to my parents Amen
Thanks so much for your courage to speak up, I am slowing going up hill now and your video has given me a real boost. I need to just find out how to love myself again. Hearing the word "trust" is my biggest trigger to anxiety attacks, we hear it so many times at church to Trust in the Lord. I avoided church for 2 years due to the embarressment of running out of sacrament meeting & relief society hearing that word and bursting into a panic attack and crying. I am now trying to come back, as I have been listening to so many talks and BYU pod casts to put Christ back into my life. I think I am ready to face this now. I will take your many thoughts and apply them to me way of thinking to find the happiness again in my life.
Thank you for your vulnerability in sharing your personal story Julie! You are beautiful inside and out and your message of light is a blessing to me and many more who will see and listen to your testimony of our Savior and the Master Healer for each of us. May the light you share bless those who struggle in the darkness and see only in black and white. This is a great reminder for me to be more intentional in extending compassion and seeing others in color. Bless you!
Does anyone else wish they would list the songs they used in these videos in the description? They are always so beautiful and uplifting! Also, thank you much for sharing! Your words were exactly what I needed to hear right now! Keep being an instrument in the Lord's hands!
I feel like this video was made about my life. Thank you for sharing your story. It can get better and it does get better. Love the gospel, Heavenly Father and our savior.
You are so inspiring. I love your insight. I love the thought of looking at others in color and high definition. Brilliant. Precious. We're ALL important to Him. The Savior is always the answer. Bless you for sharing. Bless you for being so real. Bless you for being you. 🙌💖
Thank you for this. I have struggled with depression in my passed as well. I still have struggles with self worth and feeling I am worthy. I struggle with feelings of if god is listening and if I am enough for him. I have several other mental issues. But it helps knowing someone else is going through similar. Thank you for this it’s helped.
Wow. What a powerful message! I really admire her for having the courage to share her story (I enjoyed the pictures, too)! Very happy to know the Church is advocating for more awareness of mental health.
I like many others have fought depression and thankfully pulled through, because of my faith and testimony in Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father. To any of you who may going through big trials, specifically depression I just want you to know that you are not alone, and Heavenly Father has a plan for you, if you will just have faith and follow him.
I love the hope of hope works. This was very inspiring and overall such a christ filled message. All these wonderful talks provide more love and understanding for the Saviour. Thank you Sister, and to everyone who has ever presented on hope works for bringing us closer to the Saviour through your personal words and trials, or in other words, thank you for connecting us to the Saviour ♥️
Thanks for this message. As the one who has, figuratively speaking (well, and probably literally speaking, too 😳), been the angry driver, I appreciate that I can be forgiven. I know God forgives. But sometimes I need to know others around me can forgive me, too.
Thank you, Julie! Thank you so much for sharing your story. The idea of seeing in color- seeing the whole picture in others- sounds so liberating. I feel a desire and motivation to work on this with my depression and anxiety. Thank you again ❤
Thank you for putting this video together and sharing it. Often times I felt that having compassion for others is a weakness, and holds me back from achieving my goals, even though deep down I know that it is the Christ-like way to live. Your msg validates my understanding and commitment to follow Jesus Christ despite what others around may say or do. Thank you.
This has helped me to realize what I've been doing to myself lately. Negativity never was happiness but, with the help of the Lord, we can be positive, encouraging, "I am OK and I can do this".
3 years ago I finished my mission and a few months later was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety. I strive to live faithfully to the best of my ability (I’m a perfectionist so I was either all in or not at all). My peers knew me as the happy, faithful, lovable, kind, and great person-not to continue on about myself- but it seemed I had everything right. But what hurt me more was when I was told that I didn’t have enough faith, that I didn’t pray enough, etc. What helped me, was learning about me. Caring for me by asking me about what was going on and trying to understand. I’ve always had trust issues but mental health issues definitely provided clarity and trust. To trust the Savior means to trust those He has sent.
Beautiful message, thank you! I often times need to check myself so that I don't see things as "black and white". It's easy to let your feelings get out of control.
I absolutely love this. This is me i try explaining to others the love and compassion I see for others and now I have a way of explaining exactly how I feel.
Thank you so very much for sharing. I am in my late 60s and have suffered from depression off and on from my early 30s. I have been under doctors care and taken medication most of that time. My life while at times had be difficult, it had been mostly joyful. I have been deeply depressed these past two years. Doctors says COVID, the deaths of three family member, my own health issues, and retirement from a very stimulating job have contributed to the depression. It is through the LDS videos such as yours, praying, reading scriptures, getting to rediscovered the tender mercies of Jesus Christ that I can now say I am feeling so much better. I am grateful for you analogy of the TV. I will endeavor each day to see all who I meet in HD. Thank you again.
Thank you so much! We watched this with our teenage children and we all loved it. It was inspiring and brought a sense of peace and reflection. we talked about the comparison to seeing people in color and what that could mean for. us.
It's been two years since I was diagnosed with postpartum. I will be on meds for the rest of my life to feel "normal," but I have learned to be at peace with that. It's been a long road of finding peace through acceptance and the love of God, but I've grown more as a person in the process than I ever thought was possible!
What a perfect message for the World we are living in today, especially during this pandemic! I felt the Spirit so strong from the beginning to the end!
May is mental health awareness month! Mental health is a continuum, not black and white. Self care and social support work on the day-to-day struggles, professional care is needed for psychological injuries and crises. But, Christ's support is a critical piece for miraculous healing and growth across that spectrum.
We Will All Always Humbly Serve and Worship and Love with All Our Hearts and Souls and With Every Part of Our Body to Heavenly Lord Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father God
I have struggled with PTSD for most of my life. One of my biggest triggers was church, temple, prayer and gospel related topics. When abuse is combined with these things, there can be no healing in a religious setting. I literally throw up when I pray. I struggled for 33 years with severe panic attacks in the church and temple. How could I explain this to those who just said, You're not praying enough! Read your scriptures more! You're not worthy to take the sacrament! You're letting Satan into your life! I finally decided to stop going and persue my own spirituality. I have never been healthier. Not perfect, but a thousand times better. But now I have a new challenge: a prophet and members who think I want to sin, that I never had a testimony, that I'm weak, that I'm soul-mates with Satan. People, stop being so cruel.
@Alana Bills, we're sorry to hear about the difficult challenges you are facing, caused by members of the Church. We hope you know that in the midst of these challenges that Heavenly Father loves you greatly! You don’t have to face this alone, and you can find hope and healing through the Savior Jesus Christ. Hoping that it does not act as a trigger, we invite you to visit abuse.churchofjesuschrist.org for information about how to heal, find peace and get help. We also encourage you to seek help from trusted friends and family and professionals. Once again, know that you are loved!
You can offer empathy and emotional validation without agreeing with someone or encouraging them in destructive thought patterns! I just started watching the video (and will continue), but I'm so concerned about people misinterpreting what it means to be emotionally validating--which IS critical to good relationships and righteous connection, and--when properly understood and applied--is absolutely in line with gospel principles. There is a difference between showing love and providing comfort and understanding for what someone is feeling and in telling them that they are "right"!
Well, Christ hasn’t healed me. I’ve been living with this for 25 years. I’m glad you’ve found a way to be supported and heard and that you have a platform. I don’t have a platform. I don’t have friends. There is no relief.
I have suffered from inferiority complex my whole life and it has given me so much anxiety . I was bullied so much in school and it still haunts me to this day
Great powerful testimony I have been through personal experiences of anxiety and trauma which was instrumental in my conversion , but I love your perspective
Good video. I was sure everyone at church was almost perfect compared to me. Now I know everyone I meet is going through lots of problems I know nothing about. But Heavenly Father does.
I see it as 2 extremes. Yes, people don't fit as complete successes or complete failures, but it's where you are going that validates who you want to become. I agree I should stop judging some people unrighteously for the fact they have tattoos or they drink coffee. They are not bad people if they do, and they're not under the same obligations as I am. I wouldn't come up with scenarios of what if they were in a certain situation, but I should love them, ideally as the savior does. It's not for what they choose to do, but who they are, as literal sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven.
Being a Christian doesn’t mean you’re always happy and never depressed. The weight of sin in our life is overwhelming! Don’t feel bad if you are depressed. Just remember that there is a place waiting for you where there is no sin and strive to get there one day!!!! ❤️❤️❤️
Depression is real , it affects so many people today, only Jesus Christ and our loving heavenly parents fully understand, I know loved ones try to understand because of the love they have for us. The power to heal any sickness, addictions or deviant behavior comes from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I know his compassion and mercy is rooted from His Charity , His pure love!
You shouldn't ever worry about yesterday And you need not not worry about Tomorrow What you need to focus on is today, That was the words that were spoken to me Over 60 some years ago. And with the Lord's help you make it each and every day if you trust in him and you trust in yourself, Plus it always has good advantages when you have good friends. And if you got all this then everything will work out.
Get checked for MTHFR mutation, this is the methylation path that makes the happy neurotransmitter Serotonin when you have this mutation you don't make enough to keep things in balance, I had suffered from depression, anxiety etc until they found I had this mutation and with the help of a doctor who understands MTHFR issues I have improved so much with just some key supplements, mental illness is not just about things that happens to us it is also a chemical imbalance, an inherited mutation in the methylation paths, my entire family got tested and we all have this mutation. I wish you well, don't give up in trying to find answers to your problem with the help of our loving Heavenly Father we can conquer anything.
Depression is pain but pain motivates change which is growth. Scripture can repurpose people to a new truth about them. Any tool for this purpose will see the similar results.
Jesus did have compassion on the woman caught in adultery, but he also did condemn the sin. He showed love for God by honoring commandments, but also love and compassion for his fellow man/woman.
Too self involved, you have to recognize your faults. Yes, it's embarrassing but you have own your mistakes and faults no matter how little they may seem be. I have made many mistakes and try to learn from them, or preferably learn from learn other people's mistakes, and I will make many more mistakes. I have seen mental illness destroy lives, it starts with being honest with yourself and who you are. You have want to improve, not just because the church or God wants you to or with the mindset of this will keep me from going to hell or seeking rewards, but because YOU want this...being a better human.
I've not been diagnosed with anything, but I've been struggling for several years now and mental illness does run in my family. I've long suspected scrupulosity (form of OCD) and/or depression, but I'm not sure what to do. I don't really trust clinical drugs, and some have been proven not to work, and I'm also wary of psychologists. I desperately hate showing emotion and I never want people to see me struggling. I know if I talk to someone about it I'll just bawl all over lol. I can spend whole days feeling guilt and fear and hiding tears. Sometimes I get really upset that I don't seem to be able to find the peace others find in the gospel. For me I'm such a perfectionist that I beat myself up and worry intensely, especially concerning anything religious. I'm not sure what to do other than just keep trying to live and hope I'll be able to let go someday.
I feel somewhat left out in the church, there are times when I feel like removing my name from the membership, because of the way the church expects us to live,there are times I cannot handle the restricted lifestyle I am supposed to live,am thinking about converting to my friend's church which is southern baptist
Much love to you, Monica! 🤗🤗 Jesus Christ knows you, He knows the situation you are in. ❤ And he sees you! He will help you and support you with the things that He wants you to do. His grace is sufficient, and He does not expect you to run faster than you are able! Mosiah 4:27, Alma 36:3&27 Also, "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31; "My grace is sufficient for all men [and women] that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them." 💪❤ "My God hath been my support; he hath led me through mine afflictions...." 2 Nephi 4:20
Thanks for sharing your comment and your feelings, Monica. You are loved, and the Lord knows how hard you are trying. Hang in there! The talk linked below from Sister Sharon Eubank about seeking light when it feels dark may give you some additional encouragement and comfort: www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2019/04/42eubank?lang=eng
I am so sorry you have had those negative experiences. Sometimes imperfect people can be hard to deal with. Christ is perfect, but His people have much to learn.
In March this year, I tried to take my life because I couldn't take life with bipolar disorder and depression anymore. I lost sight of my Savior, and I'm struggling to find comfort. My parents are my strength right now, and I'm trying very hard not to see my life in black and white, as total failure or complete success. Adam fell that men might be, and men are that they might have joy. I hope I can find joy in this life.
💖💖💖
Much love your way! ♥️ You can find joy! I promise the Lord has that in store for you. Keep hoping.
A tool to help find Joy in this life - Take a cheap copy of the Book of Mormon, circle every instance of the word "Joy" that you find while reading it. Reflect on how it was that they had Joy in such difficult times, what did those ancient people do to obtain Joy? Alma 27 verse17-18 - "the joy of Ammon was so great ... even to the exhausting of his strength..."
That sounds more difficult than I could imagine. Keep hoping, brother. ♥️
I'm sorry this is happening for you. I hope you are also getting help from the mental health field.
I've lost 3 children to mental health issues and I pray each day to have them back in the gospel life I love. It's up to the Lord, we all need compassion. 🙏
Thank you for your motivation sister Paul!
With god by our side we’ll get compassion
Your story is as same as mine when I lost my baby’s mom through mental health issues
I couldn't agree more; we all need the compassion He freely gives.
@@dericksuapaia Agreed-she is a great example.
Dear sister, you have not lost them. They are not lost to their Redeemer. Each person has their own path. And God is on that path with them. He doesn’t leave them alone. Only He knows what it is to be them.
Our part is to love. Very often it is necessary to “Detach from them with love,” and place them (in our hearts) in God’s hands. He will not forsake them. They are each one engraven on the palms of His hands. This is what I know now.
Depression is a constant dog at my heels. Sometimes I get it to sit and stay and not bother me, but sometimes it comes barking in my face and refuses to be quieted. The Spirit pulls me up at those times and keeps me from taking the final, fatal step into irreversible darkness. I have a testimony of the light of Christ making my life worth living, even in the depth of struggle and pain and depression. Christ will always love us. He knows us better than we know ourselves.
I love all of your thoughts; thanks for commenting!
I feel the same way. I found similar thoughts too. I guess like Michael Jackson we are not alone right?
Thank you for sharing that beautiful testimony
I used to think that people with depression were making excuses. I thought it wasn't a real thing. I thought people wanted something to blame other than their own failures and weaknesses to justify not getting things done or being lazy. But on my mission, I suffered from depression and anxiety. I thought a lot of the same things about myself, that I was just making excuses to be lazy and that I should just get to work, but I was so sad and couldn't make myself do anything. The mission president's wife sent me to the mission counselor who diagnosed me with severe anxiety and extreme depression, but I didn't believe her at first. I thought she was telling me something that would help me shift the blame away from myself and make it easier for me to make excuses. But when I did finally accept her diagnosis, it made things a lot easier. Not because I had something to blame for my laziness. But because I understood myself better and I could be more kind to myself. And I knew it wasn't because I was a horrible lazy person who just wouldn't do what I was supposed to do even when I knew I should. I was someone who kept trying to work and push through something very hard and debilitating and who didn't give up. This experience taught me not only that depression is real, but so are everyone's struggles, problems, and trials, even if I don't understand them.
Thank you for sharing about such a hard time in your life. That's both vulnerable and brave. And thank you for sharing how that changed you. ❤️
I love the empathy you share. I can't imagine going on a mission and struggling like that. I honor you.
@@storymack1535 I couldn't agree more with your words!
I was diagnosed with depression 3 years ago and to this day I still find myself thinking those same things, that I'm just finding excuses to be lazy and not get things done. It takes practice to fight those thoughts.
@@scoutneptune5040 HERO
I have anxiety, panic attacks, ptsd, and depression. But through the atonement of Jesus Christ, peace does come most days. I still have these issues, but my Savior helps because HE understands us and especially me. I take meds and therapy also
Same here same here.
You definitely have a friend in me!
@@summerd5815 It sounds like we would all get along!
Mental illness is so rampant these days I know many people on medication, I myself have battled with depression, anxiety, panic attacks until I found out I had a mutation on my genes that actually is the cause of my illness which did not manifest itself until I had a major time of stress when my husband was diagnosed with cancer and died. This mutation which affects more than 40% of the population is related to the methylation paths which makes the happy neurotransmitters like Serotonin when you are positive to the mutation you don't produce much of this neurotransmitter, there are treatments that really work without the use of pharmaceutical meds which are very harmful, just find a practitioner that knows about MTHFR mutations and take it from there with some supplements that are crucial to this methylation path your symptoms will improve. I wish you well on your journey it is a very difficult path but with the help of our Lord we can conquer anything.
It’s so hard to accept a challenge you can’t run away from. I have gone through exactly what you have. And it’s so nice to know I’m not alone. You have a voice that’s going to help so many. Thank you for your words
This is such a beautiful and real message. I can't thank you enough for sharing this and helping me realize more, the importance of seeing people as Christ sees them. None of us was sent here to fail, but none of us will escape the trials of mortality, and loving one another through these times is the way Christ would have us love each other. The older I get the more I agree with the statement that seeing people in black and white is inaccurate. The high definition view is what I will be striving for in everyone!
My teen son has dealt with violent mental health since a toddler. The journey has been so difficult and heartbreaking. It continues to be severely difficult, leaving me lost emotionally. Through it all, though, I have learned so many unique perspectives to see my son with value and even potential. I still pray daily that my son can accept and understand God in some way that has proven inaccessible to him. I have learned to also pray for how I can use my unique experiences/thoughts to reach and lift those going through what I am. To do that, I have had to learn to lift myself first. Thank you for this video. So much.
Thanks Julie. I have also struggled greatly with depression for over a decade now. I have had numerous times where I was ready to end my life. It is the love of the people in my life who have pulled me back from the edge over and over again. And to add to what you said about trying to ask yourself humanizing questions about people who may be on the other end of conflict, one truth I've arrived at repeatedly in my life is...we cannot live in a world where being right is more important than being kind. This doesn't mean to compromise your standards, or your values. It just means that there are more important things than being "in the right". Compassion, forgiveness. Love.
I’m so sorry! We love you and care about you hope you are doing ok!❤️
I have the EXACT same experience. Down to the T with having a panic attack because of my boss/job and mental illness runs in my family too. THANK YOU SO MUCH. I was asking God for a sign that he’s there and still cares about me.. as I have felt so incredibly lonely and depressed lately. This is my sign. Thank you again.
CPTSD covers both depression & anxiety. Being reminded of past dark trauma experiences, it's like a cloud of darkness sweeps over me - making all my efforts of trying to keep true to my covenants meaningless. But it's especially during those dark times that I've had to truly call on Him, trying hard to ground myself to avoid suicidal ideation triggers. The times where I've begged Heavenly Father to remove this bitter cup from Me, I've received the reassuring comfort of the Spirit reminding me - I am not alone. Looking at each day, reminding myself that I'm still breathing, I'm still standing - I am of worth. For myself, it's taken a lot of dark experiences like this in order to see & feel His Light. I've learnt to follow my heart, the Spirit, during times when my head is troubled during these mental health battles - even needing to sleep due to fatigue of an endless battle. But rest assured, I know I've drawn near to Him during these dark times - feeling Him carry Me during these trials. I can testify that He is near. Life is worth the good fight. For anyone else who witnesses people like myself experiencing mental health battles - be that friend. Listen to understand. Listen without judgement. Listen with charity.
Thank you for sharing your experience and testimony, Adele.
So beautifully said! God bless you in your fight! ❤️ never give up!
You're amazing..
These videos are pretty remarkable. This one and others like it are so real. We aren't living in a life as simple as black and white. There are challenges in our lives, mistakes that we'll make, and sorrows we will feel. But there is one who can lift us up. Come, Follow Him.
I love the Hope Work series too! Thanks for watching my message!
Mental illness is a real challenge for so many people throughout the world. Thank you for talking openly about your struggles. From personal experience, I know that we can be trying to do everying right and still suffer intense bouts of depression.
I can tell you definitely get it. Thank you for your compassion and sharing your thoughts.
@@julieleespeaks Thank you.
Thank you for saying that you weren't just healed from depression, but through christ you learned to see light even with depression and anxiety. Acceptance that i'm not just a completely broken person because of my anxiety and depression is something that I've been working on so much with my therapist. It gives me hope that with christ we can learn to accept those parts of ourselves and still have light in our lives.
The beginning view of how we blame other people for our insecurities is so helpful for everyone to understand
Yes, I agree. We all do it at times I think.
Can you elaborate what you mean by this?
Seeing people as individuals rather than groups is essential to genuinely and deeply loving them.
keep praying and keep reading the scriptures and you will get blessings
I agree with this and I also think it gets confused with “pray and read scriptures MORE and you won’t have any problems” which is not true all of the time.
Agreed; those both help me so much!
@@linseylouwho Yes; this is a great distinction to make.
But don't forget to give back, too! I had some silence hit me for a while..I realized it was because I was being selfish and only asking..I needed to start giving back, too❤
This one's for me!!! An answer!!! I know He lives!!!🙏
Oh I love to see how God uses each of us to answer each others' prayers. It's incredible to witness.
What a precious person! Thank you for sharing this. Was touched by your testimony of Christ and your resilience.
Thank you friend! How kind you are.
I have not experienced mental health issues, either depression or anxiety, so I can't relate exactly, but this helps me understand a little more those who do.
That is such a humble way to approach something you haven't experienced; go you!
I too have struggled with mental illness. I was not diagnosed properly till I was 46 years old. The diagnosis was a hard hit to me as I was in denial. But with my acceptance and a desire to learn about my illness I have completely changed. I did not have the luxury of medication that would help me. The only help for me was learning how to manage my illness. I learned that the only person who could help me was God. I began to desire to have God and the Saviour as my centre. I began a long journey back to them and it was truly miraculous. I learned that while this illness often felt like a curse, I realized that it was gift! With management I could use this illness to help others. With my reliance on Christ to help me, this illness was truly a gift! I saw my illness as a scourge that would bring me to remembrance. I changed my view as I embraced my I,ness as a way to remind me to rely on my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Yes, I still have bad days, but I know they will pass. My journey has brought me to God and His Son and I have gained strong testimonies of them and their love for me. I truly believe that this illness has saved my life. I don’t define myself through this illness. I don’t even think of myself as ill anymore. I am just grateful to be me and I am grateful for all my challenges as they bring me closer to God and keep me closer to Him. I have great compassion for others who suffer and I also try to uplift and bring hope to those who feel there is no hope due to their mental challenges. I feel LUCKY to be me and blessed to have an illness that reminds me often that God and the Saviour have the power to heal and help me...we all can find hope and healing when we turn to the Saviour and our Heavenly Father. Of this I know!
pleaee prayer for my parents my father is paralized and my mom have cancer last stage please remember my father and mother in praying jesus Christ given long and healthful life to my parents Amen
No problem... DONE😉💗
I am so sorry to hear of your struggles!
@@guardianangel9517 I love that you were all over this.
What a blessing you are to them. I will pray for their health but also that you will be supported and comforted during theses trials.
Praying for healing in Jesus Mighty name
Thanks so much for your courage to speak up, I am slowing going up hill now and your video has given me a real boost. I need to just find out how to love myself again. Hearing the word "trust" is my biggest trigger to anxiety attacks, we hear it so many times at church to Trust in the Lord. I avoided church for 2 years due to the embarressment of running out of sacrament meeting & relief society hearing that word and bursting into a panic attack and crying. I am now trying to come back, as I have been listening to so many talks and BYU pod casts to put Christ back into my life. I think I am ready to face this now. I will take your many thoughts and apply them to me way of thinking to find the happiness again in my life.
Thank you for your vulnerability in sharing your personal story Julie! You are beautiful inside and out and your message of light is a blessing to me and many more who will see and listen to your testimony of our Savior and the Master Healer for each of us. May the light you share bless those who struggle in the darkness and see only in black and white. This is a great reminder for me to be more intentional in extending compassion and seeing others in color. Bless you!
Thank you for all your kind words!
“I see you, and you look pretty special to me.” ❤️❤️❤️
It's the truth! We all need each other.
@Christian Princess Thank you so much for your kind words!
I needed this tonight and am texting it to some family members who I feel need it. Thank you for this beautiful, positive message!!
Does anyone else wish they would list the songs they used in these videos in the description? They are always so beautiful and uplifting!
Also, thank you much for sharing! Your words were exactly what I needed to hear right now! Keep being an instrument in the Lord's hands!
You are so welcome; I am so honored to be able to share this message with so many.
I feel like this video was made about my life. Thank you for sharing your story. It can get better and it does get better. Love the gospel, Heavenly Father and our savior.
You are so inspiring. I love your insight. I love the thought of looking at others in color and high definition. Brilliant. Precious. We're ALL important to Him. The Savior is always the answer. Bless you for sharing. Bless you for being so real. Bless you for being you. 🙌💖
Thank you so much Sister, for sharing this powerful message!!! I don’t know you, but I can feel of your amazing example of our Saviour♥️
You are sweet; thank you for your kind words!
Thank you for this. I have struggled with depression in my passed as well. I still have struggles with self worth and feeling I am worthy. I struggle with feelings of if god is listening and if I am enough for him. I have several other mental issues. But it helps knowing someone else is going through similar. Thank you for this it’s helped.
Wow. What a powerful message! I really admire her for having the courage to share her story (I enjoyed the pictures, too)! Very happy to know the Church is advocating for more awareness of mental health.
The reminder to keep my eyes on Christ is amazing!!!
I love you Julie! It’s been a blessing to watch you follow your specific path in life and be an instrument in God’s hands for good ❤️❤️
I love you Dubbya! It's been forever. Thank you for your sweet words.
I am trying to build hope and the spirit in my life. I pray to some day soon to have hope like you.
Be patient with yourself; we are all on our own journey.
I like many others have fought depression and thankfully pulled through, because of my faith and testimony in Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father. To any of you who may going through big trials, specifically depression I just want you to know that you are not alone, and Heavenly Father has a plan for you, if you will just have faith and follow him.
@Randomest Bricks Thank you
Couldn't agree more; we are not alone!
@@jaxonstrong6324 Yes, your thoughts are very important.
I love the hope of hope works. This was very inspiring and overall such a christ filled message. All these wonderful talks provide more love and understanding for the Saviour. Thank you Sister, and to everyone who has ever presented on hope works for bringing us closer to the Saviour through your personal words and trials, or in other words, thank you for connecting us to the Saviour ♥️
Amen
Thank you for your sweet words; I am so grateful to share!
Thanks for this message. As the one who has, figuratively speaking (well, and probably literally speaking, too 😳), been the angry driver, I appreciate that I can be forgiven. I know God forgives. But sometimes I need to know others around me can forgive me, too.
Thank you, Julie! Thank you so much for sharing your story. The idea of seeing in color- seeing the whole picture in others- sounds so liberating. I feel a desire and motivation to work on this with my depression and anxiety. Thank you again ❤
This is so amazing to hear; the analogy has helped me so much too!
Thank you for putting this video together and sharing it. Often times I felt that having compassion for others is a weakness, and holds me back from achieving my goals, even though deep down I know that it is the Christ-like way to live. Your msg validates my understanding and commitment to follow Jesus Christ despite what others around may say or do. Thank you.
This has helped me to realize what I've been doing to myself lately. Negativity never was happiness but, with the help of the Lord, we can be positive, encouraging, "I am OK and I can do this".
I love 💘 it sweetie. I have major depressive disorder and checked myself in the Er best thing I ever did. Grateful for your testimony! Thank you
3 years ago I finished my mission and a few months later was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety. I strive to live faithfully to the best of my ability (I’m a perfectionist so I was either all in or not at all). My peers knew me as the happy, faithful, lovable, kind, and great person-not to continue on about myself- but it seemed I had everything right. But what hurt me more was when I was told that I didn’t have enough faith, that I didn’t pray enough, etc. What helped me, was learning about me. Caring for me by asking me about what was going on and trying to understand. I’ve always had trust issues but mental health issues definitely provided clarity and trust. To trust the Savior means to trust those He has sent.
Beautiful message, thank you! I often times need to check myself so that I don't see things as "black and white". It's easy to let your feelings get out of control.
Me too; it's a daily thing I work on!
I absolutely love this. This is me i try explaining to others the love and compassion I see for others and now I have a way of explaining exactly how I feel.
Sincerely, I needed to hear this beautiful message today. Thank you. 💕
I am so grateful this message found you at the right time. God is good.
Thank you so very much for sharing. I am in my late 60s and have suffered from depression off and on from my early 30s. I have been under doctors care and taken medication most of that time. My life while at times had be difficult, it had been mostly joyful. I have been deeply depressed these past two years. Doctors says COVID, the deaths of three family member, my own health issues, and retirement from a very stimulating job have contributed to the depression. It is through the LDS videos such as yours, praying, reading scriptures, getting to rediscovered the tender mercies of Jesus Christ that I can now say I am feeling so much better. I am grateful for you analogy of the TV. I will endeavor each day to see all who I meet in HD. Thank you again.
Thank you so much! We watched this with our teenage children and we all loved it. It was inspiring and brought a sense of peace and reflection. we talked about the comparison to seeing people in color and what that could mean for. us.
Beautiful. "seeing life is always changing, beautiful, painful, and so, so meaningful"
It's been two years since I was diagnosed with postpartum. I will be on meds for the rest of my life to feel "normal," but I have learned to be at peace with that. It's been a long road of finding peace through acceptance and the love of God, but I've grown more as a person in the process than I ever thought was possible!
Wow Julie, so powerful and meaningful! Thank you for the invitation to see people in high definition!
You are so welcome; thank you for watching!
What a perfect message for the World we are living in today, especially during this pandemic! I felt the Spirit so strong from the beginning to the end!
I am so happy to hear that-we all just need each other!
@@julieleespeaks right?!😁
Compassion rather than being critical. I love this!!
Thank you for your strength in sharing, and blessing my life.
I just love the message of this video. Thank you for posting this. I will share this with all I know who might be able to use this message.
May is mental health awareness month! Mental health is a continuum, not black and white. Self care and social support work on the day-to-day struggles, professional care is needed for psychological injuries and crises. But, Christ's support is a critical piece for miraculous healing and growth across that spectrum.
I'm so glad the video came out this month!
We Will All Always Humbly Serve and Worship and Love with All Our Hearts and Souls and With Every Part of Our Body to Heavenly Lord Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father God
I heard him today. This was a message of comfort. He loves me and you ❤
#HEARHIM
Thank you!! Many messages in this video are what I needed!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful story
You are so welcome; I'm glad I could share!
Very wonderful talk/presentation, sister! Thank you so much! So thankful and happy & glad for your wisdom!
Thank you for your kind words; so glad I could share!
I have struggled with PTSD for most of my life. One of my biggest triggers was church, temple, prayer and gospel related topics. When abuse is combined with these things, there can be no healing in a religious setting. I literally throw up when I pray. I struggled for 33 years with severe panic attacks in the church and temple. How could I explain this to those who just said, You're not praying enough! Read your scriptures more! You're not worthy to take the sacrament! You're letting Satan into your life!
I finally decided to stop going and persue my own spirituality. I have never been healthier. Not perfect, but a thousand times better.
But now I have a new challenge: a prophet and members who think I want to sin, that I never had a testimony, that I'm weak, that I'm soul-mates with Satan.
People, stop being so cruel.
Wow! This gives incredible perspective! Thank you so much for sharing. I agree, too, we ought to be kinder.
@@BestEvaGal thank you for hearing me.
@Alana Bills, we're sorry to hear about the difficult challenges you are facing, caused by members of the Church. We hope you know that in the midst of these challenges that Heavenly Father loves you greatly! You don’t have to face this alone, and you can find hope and healing through the Savior Jesus Christ. Hoping that it does not act as a trigger, we invite you to visit abuse.churchofjesuschrist.org for information about how to heal, find peace and get help. We also encourage you to seek help from trusted friends and family and professionals. Once again, know that you are loved!
@@churchofjesuschrist thank you so much.
I am so sorry to hear this has been your experience.
Thank you very much. Just what I needed today.
I love 💘 it. See them in color. Thank you for your love and testimony. Im touched
You can offer empathy and emotional validation without agreeing with someone or encouraging them in destructive thought patterns! I just started watching the video (and will continue), but I'm so concerned about people misinterpreting what it means to be emotionally validating--which IS critical to good relationships and righteous connection, and--when properly understood and applied--is absolutely in line with gospel principles. There is a difference between showing love and providing comfort and understanding for what someone is feeling and in telling them that they are "right"!
Thank you for sharing...this was beautiful and so are you!!!❤️
You are so welcome; thank you!
Wow, that was good. Thank you, LDS church.
Well, Christ hasn’t healed me. I’ve been living with this for 25 years. I’m glad you’ve found a way to be supported and heard and that you have a platform. I don’t have a platform. I don’t have friends. There is no relief.
I see you! I know your pain
@@ogiesiem thank you ❤️ I’m sorry you know it too.
💖💞💓💗❤️🧡💛💚💙💜Yes, we are all special in our own way. Thank you so much for sharing that beautiful testimony 🙏🏻
This is so beautiful, thanks for sharing your enlightened perspective on how to view ourselves and others better!❤️
Im impressed by this message. Words were inspired and chosen well. I shared this with my family. Very well done!
Nice vid keep up the good work(god bless all of you're fam)
Thank you for your kind words; my family is well.
A moving message. Thank you!
You are so welcome; I'm glad I could share.
I wish I had the song at the end of the video. It is so special! It makes me feels heavenly.
I have suffered from inferiority complex my whole life and it has given me so much anxiety . I was bullied so much in school and it still haunts me to this day
Great powerful testimony I have been through personal experiences of anxiety and trauma which was instrumental in my conversion , but I love your perspective
Thank you for your kind words. We all need Christ.
I love your spirit, Sister! Thank you for uplifting me. 😇
JESUS IS ALMIGHTY'S ONLY HOLLY SPIRIT. Praise THE LORD.
Amen.
I could not agree more; I love the Lord!
God bless you all 🙏❤️✝️
And God bless you; thank you for watching!
Good video. I was sure everyone at church was almost perfect compared to me. Now I know everyone I meet is going through lots of problems I know nothing about. But Heavenly Father does.
Beautiful video and very inspiring.
Thank you so much for your words! I'm happy to share.
I see it as 2 extremes. Yes, people don't fit as complete successes or complete failures, but it's where you are going that validates who you want to become. I agree I should stop judging some people unrighteously for the fact they have tattoos or they drink coffee. They are not bad people if they do, and they're not under the same obligations as I am. I wouldn't come up with scenarios of what if they were in a certain situation, but I should love them, ideally as the savior does. It's not for what they choose to do, but who they are, as literal sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven.
Excellent video, Julie. Thx.
Thank you so much for watching my message!
Being a Christian doesn’t mean you’re always happy and never depressed. The weight of sin in our life is overwhelming! Don’t feel bad if you are depressed. Just remember that there is a place waiting for you where there is no sin and strive to get there one day!!!! ❤️❤️❤️
Excellent inspiring message.
This is incredible and everything that I needed to hear!
Oh I am so glad; God is so good.
I relate a lot to this video. Thank you so much!
You are so welcome; glad you could watch!
This is amazingly wise!
Thank you, I like to think so. :)
Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful and inspiring message with us!🥰💕👏👏☺️😇
Depression is real , it affects so many people today, only Jesus Christ and our loving heavenly parents fully understand, I know loved ones try to understand because of the love they have for us.
The power to heal any sickness, addictions or deviant behavior comes from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I know his compassion and mercy is rooted from His Charity , His pure love!
I couldn't agree more; I love the Savior.
You shouldn't ever worry about yesterday And you need not not worry about Tomorrow What you need to focus on is today, That was the words that were spoken to me Over 60 some years ago. And with the Lord's help you make it each and every day if you trust in him and you trust in yourself, Plus it always has good advantages when you have good friends. And if you got all this then everything will work out.
I love your thoughts and I couldn't agree more.
Amen
Pray for me
Deal. :)
Absolutely; I know God will hear your prayers.
@@carlthewinner I love that you are all over this.
Get checked for MTHFR mutation, this is the methylation path that makes the happy neurotransmitter Serotonin when you have this mutation you don't make enough to keep things in balance, I had suffered from depression, anxiety etc until they found I had this mutation and with the help of a doctor who understands MTHFR issues I have improved so much with just some key supplements, mental illness is not just about things that happens to us it is also a chemical imbalance, an inherited mutation in the methylation paths, my entire family got tested and we all have this mutation. I wish you well, don't give up in trying to find answers to your problem with the help of our loving Heavenly Father we can conquer anything.
Depression is pain but pain motivates change which is growth. Scripture can repurpose people to a new truth about them. Any tool for this purpose will see the similar results.
Thank you.
I appreciate this video.
The symptoms are actually from early trauma
Jesus did have compassion on the woman caught in adultery, but he also did condemn the sin. He showed love for God by honoring commandments, but also love and compassion for his fellow man/woman.
Yes, I agree He is perfect at condemning sin while also having compassion.
Healthy outlook. It’s all relative. Thanks for sharing, Julie.
I agree; you are so welcome. I'm happy to share.
Too self involved, you have to recognize your faults. Yes, it's embarrassing but you have own your mistakes and faults no matter how little they may seem be. I have made many mistakes and try to learn from them, or preferably learn from learn other people's mistakes, and I will make many more mistakes. I have seen mental illness destroy lives, it starts with being honest with yourself and who you are. You have want to improve, not just because the church or God wants you to or with the mindset of this will keep me from going to hell or seeking rewards, but because YOU want this...being a better human.
Yes, I think it's so important to own our weaknesses.
I've not been diagnosed with anything, but I've been struggling for several years now and mental illness does run in my family. I've long suspected scrupulosity (form of OCD) and/or depression, but I'm not sure what to do. I don't really trust clinical drugs, and some have been proven not to work, and I'm also wary of psychologists. I desperately hate showing emotion and I never want people to see me struggling. I know if I talk to someone about it I'll just bawl all over lol. I can spend whole days feeling guilt and fear and hiding tears. Sometimes I get really upset that I don't seem to be able to find the peace others find in the gospel. For me I'm such a perfectionist that I beat myself up and worry intensely, especially concerning anything religious. I'm not sure what to do other than just keep trying to live and hope I'll be able to let go someday.
I feel somewhat left out in the church, there are times when I feel like removing my name from the membership, because of the way the church expects us to live,there are times I cannot handle the restricted lifestyle I am supposed to live,am thinking about converting to my friend's church which is southern baptist
Much love to you, Monica! 🤗🤗 Jesus Christ knows you, He knows the situation you are in. ❤ And he sees you! He will help you and support you with the things that He wants you to do. His grace is sufficient, and He does not expect you to run faster than you are able! Mosiah 4:27, Alma 36:3&27
Also, "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31; "My grace is sufficient for all men [and women] that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them." 💪❤
"My God hath been my support; he hath led me through mine afflictions...." 2 Nephi 4:20
Please don’t walk away, not before you go to the temple. Please know that we are here for you to support you and love you. Please stay.
Thanks for sharing your comment and your feelings, Monica. You are loved, and the Lord knows how hard you are trying. Hang in there! The talk linked below from Sister Sharon Eubank about seeking light when it feels dark may give you some additional encouragement and comfort: www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2019/04/42eubank?lang=eng
I am so sorry you have had those negative experiences. Sometimes imperfect people can be hard to deal with. Christ is perfect, but His people have much to learn.
@@aliciamoulton6876 I love all your words; thanks for sharing!
Praise the Lord
Yes, He is all my hope and stay!