Mental health has been a growing concern in recent years. Mental fatigue, in particular, is the state of tiredness when our brain energy has been depleted and we feel completely burned out.
Our minds can experience mental fatigue when they are engaged in internal monologues, which preoccupy our waking hours. “Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things” (Proverbs 23:33, NIV). For instance, we may find ourselves
Dwelling on what-ifs and should-bes;
ruminating about matters that are not within our control;
blaming ourselves for past events and not being able to move on.
Mental fatigue drains us emotionally and mentally, affecting our well-being and quality of life. Left unchecked, it can lead to more serious mental health issues like depression. Here are some suggestions to help us find rest for our minds:
Take a mind break. Shift our mind’s focus from earthly concerns to heavenly ones – “for I have always been mindful of your unfailing love and have lived in reliance on your faithfulness” (Psalm 26:3, NIV). Take a walk outdoors to get some fresh air. The change of environment, pace and activity allows our mind to find rest and respite. It affords us some quiet time to process, think and pray. As we remember God’s unconditional love and great faithfulness, our focus turns away from our situation to centre on who He is. Even if our circumstances and challenges remain unchanged, our minds can find rest as we trust in God’s good plans for our lives.
Turn monologues into conversations with God. In conversing with God, we experience His divine peace that surpasses human understanding – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7, NIV). As we take counsel from the Spirit and the Scriptures, we are strengthened. “As soon as I pray, you answer me; you encourage me by giving me strength” (Psalm 138:3, NLT). Very often, God speaks most clearly to us in our time of need and helplessness – we only need to be still and listen.
Talk to a friend. Move beyond monologues; share your concerns with a trusted friend or mentor who can help us find strength in the Lord (1 Samuel 23:16, NIV). When we find courage to open up, we hear ourselves more clearly and are able to process the issue, while welcoming Godly perspectives from those we trust. Often, all we need is just a listening ear and prayer to remind us that we are not alone in this journey of faith.
In this season of rapid change and uncertainty, let us prioritise our mental health and be challenged to extend the same concern to those around us. A simple “How is your heart today?” may go a long way to help someone find strength in the Lord.
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