Question 1

How Can You Convince Your Friend to Stop Self-Hating?

Accepted Answer

People often hate themselves because of guilt, shame, and anxiety coming together in their hearts and minds. If your friend is struggling with self-hatred:
-Help them find the source
-Remind them how wonderful they are
-Think about what you would need in the same situation
Of course, you can’t control them or their feelings, but being there for them will likely lift their spirits. Just be sure to protect your own heart and energy along the way.

Question 2

Why Life Is Not Fair

Accepted Answer

Life is not fair. Here are 3 reasons why with advice on how to deal with it.
#1: Life is outside of your control
#2: Life rewards performance, not desire.
#3: Life allows multiple points of view.
Here is advice on how to cope with it.

Question 3

Time to Rest &#8211; It&#8217;s Okay to Do Less

Accepted Answer

Rest is important because without resting, we are more likely to get sick, to feel emotionally drained, and to overreact to stressful things in our lives. In some cases, doing less is an act of self-care. If you feel overwhelmed, it may be time to cut what’s not absolutely necessary out of your schedule or routine. Take time to slow down, rest, and heal so you can have energy for what matters most.

Question 4

Why Does My Depression Get Worse in the Winter?

Accepted Answer

While it’s not the case for everyone, winter can make depression worse for some people. The grey days of winter make some people feel down. If you live in an area where harsh weather affects your ability to leave home, you may feel more isolated. You may also have seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Question 5

How Can I Deal with the Guilt of My Past Without Self-Harming?

Accepted Answer

The Bible says, ". . .there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death" (Romans 8:1-2). Leaning on our faith in God, and getting support from people we trust to help us in our faith and with our mental health can help us heal from the pain of guilt and shame.

Question 6

Is Your Partner a Narcissist?

Accepted Answer

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a legitimate mental health issue that requires diagnosis and treatment. It’s a curse, if you want to stick with the mythology theme, to be rendered incapable of fixating on anything other than yourself. “Pathological self-absorption” has been a subject of study since the late 1800’s, but it’s actually pretty rare. Only about 1% of the population suffers from the condition.

Question 7

Disordered Eating: Do I Have an Eating Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Eating issues can manifest themselves in many different ways, but there are two extremes: Some people are living on the obsessive side, such as constantly worrying about their weight, meticulously counting calories, compulsively exercising and/or living in fear of eating the wrong thing. Other people struggle with chaotic, out-of-control eating — especially in response to stress or emotional upset – and/or lack any structure or regularity of meals. Many people fall somewhere in between, leaning one way or the other, while others swing back and forth between the two extremes such as with yo-yo dieting. Does any of this sound familiar?

Question 8

How to Stop My Porn Addiction?

Accepted Answer

As long as your addiction to pornography remains a secret, you will continue to be in your addiction. You’ve got to find somebody you can tell your story to, who will mentor you and hold you accountable and talk with you. There are certain triggers that happen when you turn to porn, and you need to find out what those triggers are.

Question 9

How Do I Know if I Love a Narcissist?

Accepted Answer

Having a relationship with a narcissist is not impossible, but because it is so difficult, you will likely feel healthier distancing yourself from narcissistic people. Knowing the signs of narcissism and understanding its impact in relationships might keep you from getting trapped in a toxic relationship. If you are trying to understand whether or not you love a narcissist, pay attention to how the relationship makes you feel, and to their patterns of behavior. Here are some things to look for if you are wondering whether the person you love is a narcissist.

Question 10

7 Ways to See the Positive Side of Quarantine

Accepted Answer

You can acknowledge the sadness of Coronavirus and the difficult emotions it brings. But it’s important not to despair or give up hope. There are mindset changes you can make to find the silver lining in taking safety precautions and spending more time at home.

Question 11

Am I Weak if My Depression Gets Worse After Watching the News?

Accepted Answer

Watching the 24-hour news cycle does more than cause temporary stress, it can actually cause mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and even PTSD if we don’t set healthy boundaries around news intake. Self-care is important to keep your mental illness from getting worse. Learn how to balance awareness and rest.

Question 12

How Do I Help My Friend with Addiction Without Breaking Their Trust?

Accepted Answer

Having a friend with an addiction is tough. Their addictive behaviors cause them additional pain, because addiction does nothing to heal the pain that drives them to drink, use drugs, or harm themselves in other ways. Your support doesn’t mean you have to stop their addiction or make them complete their recovery. It just means you have to continue to be a true friend, as they always have been, so they know someone is there encouraging them in their recovery when things get tough. Here are some suggestions for how you can do that.

Question 13

Are More People Depressed During the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Accepted Answer

While you may have struggled with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or suicidal thoughts before the pandemic, you may also be among the many people for whom mental health issues have gotten worse since isolating and social distancing. You are not alone, and there are many options when it comes to treatment and resources.

Question 14

How To Deal with Anger

Accepted Answer

When we get angry, it can be difficult to control it. Have you yelled, broken something, or said something you regretted out of anger? These mistakes are part of being human. It can be difficult to manage our strong feelings, especially when we feel hurt, or when we feel like an injustice has been done. The step to controlling your anger is understanding it. Here are some healthy ways to manage your feelings of anger.

Question 15

10 Ways to Reduce Negativity in Your Life

Accepted Answer

The world can be a dark place and if we let it, this darkness can take over our thought patterns. If we don't change these negative thought patterns they can begin to control our lives, controlling our words and actions, feelings and emotions. They can affect our peace and happiness. This can lead to depression, sadness, anger and self-esteem issues. So how do we reduce the negativity in our lives to get to a place of hope and positivity? We hope these 10 ideas will help you start on the path to overcoming the negativity that may be present in your life.

Question 16

How Do We Pray for Peace in Difficult Times?

Accepted Answer

The world isn’t a very peaceful place. Wars seem to always be raging, environmental disasters force people to evacuate their homes, and there seems to be more political and social upheaval now than at any time in recent history. This lack of peace around us can soon become a lack of peace within us. Praying for peace is one way we can regain a sense of calm in the face of fear and uncertainty. It can also help us to become a more peaceful presence in the lives of people around us.  So what do we do? How do we pray for peace in difficult times?

Question 17

Bad Breakup: She Searched for an Easy, Painless Death

Accepted Answer

“Don't worry. Life changes, but you need to have perseverance. Never give up on this life.” Those words stopped me that day and changed my life! There are still a few moments where I feel weak and I've wanted to give up, but let me remind you of this: You need to water yourself to stand straight even under the direct sun. Take as much water as you need every day.

Question 18

What Can I Do if My Sibling is Cutting Themselves?

Accepted Answer

If you have a sibling cutting themselves, it’s completely understandable that you are fearful or concerned about their self-harm. I know it comes from a place of love, and I hope you see how powerful and meaningful that is. When you are ready to have a conversation with your sibling it is important to not judge or shame. Then ask a lot of questions and listen well.  Here are more ideas about how to have this important conversation and give you a greater sense of hope for your sibling, their well-being, and your relationship.

Question 19

How Can I Ever Love Someone After I’ve Been Raised by a Narcissist?

Accepted Answer

"Here are some steps I've counseled people to take to help them learn to love and trust others after growing up around narcissistic abuse.

1. Understand Your Triggers
2. Distinguish the New Person in Your Life from the Narcissist
3. Give Yourself Time
4. Ask for What You Need
5. Learn to Love Yourself
6. Get Extra Support"

Question 20

6 Tips for Making New Friends and Trying New Activities

Accepted Answer

Some good ideas for making friends ""in real life"" is to start with thinking about what's important to you, and what to share about yourself with others.

1. Think About What Brings You Joy
2. Ask Yourself, ""What Would I Like to Learn?""
3. Find Groups That Match Those Interests and Passions
4. Put yourself Out There

There are safe ways to make new friends and try new things together.

Question 21

Spiritual Warfare: How to Deal with Demonic Attacks? EP 46

Accepted Answer

Abby told us, "When I felt spiritually attacked, I would repeat over and over again in my head, “I’m a child of God. I believe in God. I’m going to heaven.” Then it would stop. Since then it’s stopped." If you're experiencing mental or emotional pain over a spiritual attack, you can reach out to God in prayer, and reach out to others for support.

Question 22

SUICIDE- 10 Facts You Need to Know

Accepted Answer

A nationwide survey of high school students in the United States found that 16% of students reported seriously considering suicide. If you haven’t thought about killing yourself, chances are you know someone who has. If our blogs, podcasts, and ebooks on suicide can help one person turn away from taking their life, it will all be worth it. We're here right now if you need us.

Question 23

What to Do if You Suspect a Loved One is Self-Harming

Accepted Answer

There’s not one right way to tell your friend that you're concerned about their possible self-harm. Here are two ways that might work:

“It seems like you've been hurting a lot lately, Would you like to talk to me about it?”
“I've noticed several marks on your arms and wrists. I care about you, so that worries me. Do you want to talk about it?”

If they acknowledge they self-harm, you can ask more questions but go slowly and respect their boundaries.

Question 24

Why Say No To Suicide?

Accepted Answer

"Here are 4 reasons to keep working at life:

1. Do you know for certain what the future holds? What if you miss out on something GREAT?
2. Someone DOES care.
3. You can help others and perhaps save someone’s life.
4. God loves you.

Don't give up. You can get help for depression and suicidal thoughts right now."

Question 25

Bible Verses About God Accepting Everyone

Accepted Answer

“I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” (Luke 5:32) Have you ever thought, "God could never love me. I've messed up too bad. My sins are too big. I am too ashamed. I am too broken." But God says throughout the Bible that He welcomes everyone who comes to Him. The Bible is full of verses that talk about God accepting everyone.

Question 26

18 Bible Verses About Fear &#8211; Help When You Feel Afraid

Accepted Answer

"So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you" (Deut 31:6). God is always with us, and there are many Bible verses for help when you feel afraid, worried, or uncertain about the future.

Question 27

15 Ways To Distract Yourself From Self-Harm

Accepted Answer

If you struggle with self-harm, you can find healthy distractions right now:
If you cut or self-injure to express pain or intense emotion:
1. Try painting or drawing
2. Keep a journal to write about your thoughts and feelings
3. Write a poem or song
Get more tips for stopping the urge to cut right away.

Question 28

Depression Self-Care Checklist

Accepted Answer

- Stay connected to friends and family—hang out with friends and family, do activities together that you enjoy.
- Try to not isolate yourself from others.
- Confide in a trusted parent, adult, or friend that you are depressed so they can encourage you and keep you accountable.
- Keep your body healthy- go outside for a walk, exercise, stay away from junk food, etc.

Read more self-care tips on our depression checklist.

Question 29

4 Things You Can Do When You are Feeling Hopeless

Accepted Answer

When you are feeling hopeless:

- Find simple pleasures.
- Search for good news.
- Lean on faith and prayer.
- Seek encouragement from people you know and trust. 

Stopping hopelessness takes practice, but it is definitely possible to find healing. Plenty of people have found a greater sense of hope by patiently making small changes, and there are people available to help you get through this.

Question 30

Don&#8217;t Lose Hope In Tough Times. There Is More.

Accepted Answer

When you're losing hope, it's not always helpful to have someone tell you what to do or explain where you went wrong. You need someone to listen, to be there for you, and to remind you that you were created for a purpose. I rediscovered my sense of hope in a dark time by talking with a HopeCoach.

Question 31

How Can I Make Loneliness Go Away?

Accepted Answer

Overcoming loneliness is a process, not a one-time decision. Each day, it’s important to remind yourself of your worth. You are lovable and worthy of love, and you have people in your life who are ready and willing to affirm that. Reaching out to people for support helps a lot, too. Start with friends and family you trust. Let them know how you’re feeling. If you want to spend time with them, ask. People care and will do what they can to help.

Question 32

Do Not Be Dismayed, God Is With Us

Accepted Answer

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isa 41:10) We don't have to be greatly distressed or worried that God abandoned us. He is faithful, and He's with us all the time.

Question 33

Mental Health: 5 Simple Ways to Improve Your Mood

Accepted Answer

Fighting depression can be tough, especially when it seems to take away your motivation. But there is always hope. We have seen great results when people develop daily habits that include (1.) remembering what and who they are grateful for, (2.) prayer and meditation, (3.) physical activity they enjoy, and (4.) talking to someone they trust.

Question 34

How to Cling to God in the Midst of Anxiety and Worrying

Accepted Answer

When I was struggling with anxiety, I remembered what 1 Peter said, "Cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you". I realized God was already there with me, waiting patiently for me to realize just how much He loves me. Enough to wait, hand outstretched, for years. He would have waited for me until my dying breath.

Question 35

Mental Health Help: My Heartbreak Feels Overwhelming

Accepted Answer

There are simple steps you can take that go a long way toward greater recovery after heartbreak:

- Committing to getting support: Deciding to reach out for the support you need is one of the surest ways to make progress.
- Keeping the faith: God is close to us in our heartbreak, and His power is greater than any situation.
- Enjoying little things: There are still things to enjoy about life, even during a painful time.

Question 36

What to Do When Guy Says: “Date Me or I’ll Kill Myself?”

Accepted Answer

If he kills himself, he’s going to kill himself because he’s a very troubled young man, not whether or not you dated him. You're not responsible for him. You're not responsible for making him happy under the threat of death or suicide. If you or a friend need support right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, for free confidential, 24/7 help.

Question 37

Suicide &#8211; I don&#8217;t have anyone to talk to about this.

Accepted Answer

Question 38

7 Life Lessons from a Suicide Survivor

Accepted Answer

Although I am the healthiest I've ever been, I will continue to live with mental illness for the rest of my life. But the struggle (or wrestling) is sacred because it teaches me more about myself and reminds me of the compassion of a God who chooses to sit with me during hard times. When I feel tempted by thoughts of suicide, prayer is one of the things that brings me back from the brink.

Question 39

A Daughter&#8217;s Journey: The Loss of My Father to Suicide

Accepted Answer

"Here's how Sarah felt after losing her father to suicide:

""The initial feelings I had after my dad died were anger, misunderstanding, resentment, sadness, and emptiness. Something that has helped me since losing my dad has been writing notes to him…sometimes they are feelings that I don't want to hold on to anymore."" 

If you're going through this, you're not alone."

Question 40

6 Emotions Survivors of Suicide Loss Face

Accepted Answer

"Grieving a loved one's death by suicide may include:

- Feeling disconnected from reality
- Feelings of guilt and failure 
- Feeling desperate to ""make sense of it""
- Sense of abandonment, rejection, or betrayal
- Anger

There is still a stigma around suicide loss, but there are plenty of safe spaces to talk about and process suicide grief."

Question 41

Suicide: Giving Life Another Chance

Accepted Answer

I’ve talked to many people, of all ages, and from all backgrounds, who have recovered from suicidal thoughts. And I’ve reconnected with my own sense of purpose after struggling through dark times. What helps most? Remembering people who love you, and things about your life you enjoy. Remembering there’s only one you, and that just your being you brings happiness to others. Sometimes, even with this encouragement, it’s still hard. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or find yourself making plans, U.S. residents can call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text “START” to 741741. If you love outside of the United States, contact the International Crisis Center in your home country. Here are the reasons to Give Life Another Chance.

Question 42

25 Grounding Techniques for Panic Attacks

Accepted Answer

If you're having a panic attack, you can take steps to relieve it.
1. Run cold water over your hands, between your fingers, over the backs, cup the water, etc.
2. Rub a cotton ball between your thumb and finger. What sensation do you get? Rub it on your face or arm. How does it feel now?
3. Stand barefoot in the grass/dirt/carpet. 
Get 22 more tips.

Question 43

Self-Care: Can What You Eat or Drink Affect Your Mental Health?

Accepted Answer

Practicing self-care is about nurturing your well-being. Eating well, getting enough rest, and drinking plenty of water are great ways to take care of your body. You also want to be sure you are caring for your emotional and spiritual needs, too. That could mean meeting with a faith community, meditating, or talking with a counselor. No matter what your self-care routine, nurturing yourself is a great choice.

Question 44

31 Tips to Boost Your Mental Health

Accepted Answer

31 Tips to Improve Mental Health:

1. Track gratitude and achievement with a journal. e tutorials.
2. Start your day with a cup of coffee. 
3. Set up a getaway. 
4. Work your strengths. Do something you're good at to build self-confidence, then tackle a tougher task.
5. Keep it cool for a good night’s sleep. 
6. “You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” 
7. Try something new.

Question 45

My Sister&#8217;s Battle with Mental Illness Gave Me a Purpose

Accepted Answer

This is my story and as odd as it sounds, I am grateful that my grief has taken me down this journey because it has put me in the position to understand what people feel when they are struggling. It helps me see the world from a new perspective. And most of all, it helps me to truly understand that God is faithful.

Question 46

Just a Bad Week or Depression? How to Tell the Difference

Accepted Answer

First, it’s a good idea to know some specific clinical depression symptoms:

- Feeling sad, weepy, worthless or empty (and unable to explain it)
- Significant weight loss or gain within the last few months
- Sleep problems 
- Thoughts/plans of death, dying, or suicide
- Losing interest in your favorite activities
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

If these last for weeks at a time, it may be depression, rather than just a bad week.

Question 47

Bible Verses About Liars &#8211; What Does the Bible Say?

Accepted Answer

"The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy" (Prov 12:22). Understanding why lying is a sin means we also trust God to protect our hearts and relationships with his laws. God also blesses honesty and truthfulness with peace in our hearts and minds.

Question 48

Breaking Free from Self-Harm

Accepted Answer

You get there one day, one moment, at a time. You get there, not by resolving to last for however long without messing up, but by submitting in your heart to give up your will and your way and to run to God in every pain and bump that you face. You walk hand in hand with Him, moment by moment, day by day, and then one day, you stop and look over your shoulder in amazement.

Question 49

Bible Verses for Depression &#8211; Get Help from God

Accepted Answer

"You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book." (Psalm 56:8) God cares about you, and He can handle all the painful emotions that come with depression and the challenges of mental illness. There are many Bible verses that can encourage people with depression, and help lift your spirits.

Question 50

Consequences of Cutting

Accepted Answer

"Having someone tell you to stop cutting is one thing. Hearing about the real consequences of cutting from people who struggle with self-harm is another. They experience:

1. Paralyzing, Emotional Pain
2. A Body Full of Scars
3. A Sick Web of Addiction

Are you addicted to cutting? You can get help to find healing from self-harm today."

Question 51

Resisting The Urge To Cut Yourself

Accepted Answer

Sometimes resisting the urge to cut or harm yourself can boil down to finding a healthy distraction when you feel that urge:
- Call a friend or meet them in person. 
- Take a shower.
- Exercise 
- Play with a pet. 
- Watch television or a non-violent, healthy movie.
- Make yourself a sandwich, drink a glass of water or a cup of hot chocolate.
Get more tips at TheHopeLine.

Question 52

How Can I Find Hope?

Accepted Answer

"When you have a hard time finding hope, remember these four truths about yourself and your life:

- Things will get better.
- You have a purpose to fulfill.
- There is a plan for your life.
- You are cared for.

If you're losing hope, finding encouraging ways to remember these things can get you back on track. Learn more. . ."

Question 53

How to Deal with Anxiety: EP 20

Accepted Answer

Anxiety is an overwhelming feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about a looming event or something with an uncertain outcome. Having some anxiety is normal but for others, it becomes so frequent, and forceful, it takes over their lives and affects their ability to function. In this podcast episode, hear real advice about how to overcome and cope with anxiety.

Question 54

Eating and Body Image Issues &#8211; Find Healthy Balance

Accepted Answer

Eating disorder treatment varies from person to person. In general, you need lots of support. We recommend staying in touch with your doctor, your mental health professional, and people you trust to help you in your recovery.  It is also helpful to be aware of healthy goals you can strive for to find a healthy balance with your eating.

Question 55

Bible Verses About Suicidal Thoughts &#8211; Get Hope from God

Accepted Answer

God is a God of hope! If you have suicidal thoughts, He loves you and wants you to choose life,“Today I have given you the choice between life and death. . .Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live!" (Duet 30:19-20). Learn what the Bible says about suicidal thoughts and get help now.

Question 56

Bible Verses About Hurting Yourself &#8211; Find Hope

Accepted Answer

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10) Self-harm can steal your health and cutting destroys your happiness. There are many Bible verses that remind us how much God loves us, and how trusting in Him can bring us peace, hope, and healing from self-harm.

Question 57

Bible Verses &#038; Quotes for Eating Disorders &#8211; Get Help Here

Accepted Answer

"I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well." Psalm 139:14 reminds us God cherishes all of us, and our bodies are precious and wonderful, just as they are. Read more Bible verses to encourage you as you're working to heal from eating disorders.

Question 58

Bible Verses for Self-Acceptance When You Hate Yourself

Accepted Answer

"For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." (Ephesians 2:10, NLT) How does it make you feel to know that you are God's masterpiece? If you struggle with hating yourself, these Bible verses can help you learn to love yourself again.

Question 59

Bible Verses About Anxiety &#8211; Get Help from God

Accepted Answer

There's a lot of advice about anxiety out there. But what does the Bible say about being anxious? "Cast all your anxieties on Him because He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7) Anxiety is nothing to be ashamed of, but if we don't give our worry and anxiety to God, we can get overwhelmed by anxious thoughts.

Question 60

10 Tips To End Loneliness

Accepted Answer

"Here are 10 tips to deal with loneliness:

1. Realize It's Not Unusual 
2. Get Motivated to Connect with Others.
3. Identify Your Thought Patterns
4. Use Alone Time Wisely 
5. Get Offline
6. Don't Miss the Positives
7. Break Habits of Loneliness 
8. Focus on Others
9. Develop Realistic Expectations
10. Remember You're Never Truly Alone

Learn more and find support."

Question 61

What Sleep, Food, and Exercise have to do with Recovery

Accepted Answer

Sleep, food, and exercise: each of these makes a huge difference in the quality of our mood and our overall mental and emotional well-being — including depression and anxiety, or how well we can focus our attention at any given moment. For someone in recovery, self-care could make the difference between avoiding emotional relapse triggers and having another relapse.

Question 62

We All Go Through Dark Times

Accepted Answer

Hopeless is how I spent most of my life. But what I perceived as hopelessness was actually just darkness in disguise. It wasn’t until I learned to drop my guard, admit that it was okay to not be okay, share my hurt with others, and grab hold of God that things started to change for me. The darkness started to subside, and hope began infiltrating every crevice of my life. It wasn’t immediate. It took time.

Question 63

Why Do You Hate Yourself?

Accepted Answer

Hating yourself is a common emotion. It’s so tragic to hear someone say, "I hate myself". But deep down, many people do. Do you hate yourself? If so, it isn't because you're a bad person. You're worthy of love, and you can repair your self-esteem and sense of worth. You don't have to stay stuck in a cycle of self-loathing.

Question 64

Disordered Eating

Accepted Answer

Because eating disorders are an attempt to control your body and your relationship with food, they can easily become addictive behaviors that make you feel trapped in a cycle of overeating, starvation, binging, and purging. But you’re not trapped – and there is always hope. Here's what it's like from Maddie's perspective.

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