May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an initiative that was first started over 60 years ago by Mental Health America.
Each year, organizations across the country and the world participate by sharing resources, stories, and tools to support increased mental health awareness throughout the population. This year, Hallow is proud to participate by supporting our community in strengthening their mental health.
At Hallow, we believe that prayer can and should be an integral part of a mental health practice. God calls us to share our gifts and talents with the world, and the best way to do that is by starting from a position of strong spiritual and mental health.
In fact, several research studies have shown that a routine prayer practice can have measurable effects on a person’s resilience, happiness, and performance.
Below, you’ll find several different prayer techniques and spiritual practices that can help contribute to your goal of strengthening your mental health through a personal relationship with God, wherever you may be on that journey.
Lectio Divina: draw wisdom and strength from God’s word
Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor fearful. (John 14:7)
Praying with Saints: learn from holy men and women who had mental health challenges of their own
“God, whose very own you are, will lead you safely through all things; and when you cannot stand it, God will carry you in His arms.” – St. Francis de Sales
Examen: spend time each day reflecting on God’s presence in your life
Where has God been present today? What are you looking forward to tomorrow?
Community and Family prayer
Build accountability and support by sharing your prayer practice with those around you.
We are excited to pray with you during Mental Health Awareness Month this year. As with any prayer journey, the first step is collecting yourself in the present and asking God to join you. The Hallow team has written a prayer to help you do just that.
Dear Lord, Thank you for being with me always.
Help me quiet my mind and heart so that I can hear your voice and follow your will.
Extend your grace into the busyness of my life, so that I may learn to be still and notice your presence.
I pray for the courage to come to you, to share my burdens, and to listen to your voice.
Help me trust in you so that you can hallow my life.
Amen.
Note: While prayer is an important part of strong mental health, it is not a standalone solution to severe mental illness such as depression, addiction, severe anxiety, etc. If you are experiencing any of these, we urge you to reach out to a mental health professional in your area.