Week 28- Mental Illness 

Scriptures:

Psalms 31:12- Like a broken vessel

2 Ne 2:2- The Lord shall consecrate our afflictions for our gain

D&C 45:31- desolating sickness covering the land

D&C 123:17- Cheerfully do all in our power

General Conference Address:  

“Like a Broken Vessel” Elder Jeffrey R Holland CR 10/2013

“Addressing Mental Health” Elder Erich W. Kopischke CR 10/21

Thought:

“Many years ago, I was first counselor to a district president in the eastern United States. More than once, as we were driving to our little branches, he said to me, “Hal, when you meet someone, treat them as if they were in serious trouble, and you will be right more than half the time.” Not only was he right, but I have learned over the years that he was too low in his estimate.” Elder Henry B Eyring CR 10/2018 “Try, Try, Try”

Misc: 

It’s likely misattributed to Plato, but it’s been said, “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”

You cannot conclude that, because it doesn’t bother or affect you, it doesn’t bother, cripple, or otherwise affect someone else. Some have described their illness as an unwelcome intruder.  Medicine and treatment can help keep the intruder out.  Just remember that you are not everyone else and vice versa.  Be kind, patient, and flexible. 

Invitation: 

Write down a list of 10 people who have positively impacted your world.  Now try to guess which 2-4 have a mental illness.  That’s the reality of mental illness.  It’s impossible to guess who’s suffering and which battles they are fighting.  So don’t judge.  Just be kind, patient, and loving.