Did you know that May is Mental Health Awareness Month? Mental Health has been an essential part of healthcare for a long time. We now know that trauma and mental health play an important part in physical health outcomes. We are also more aware now than ever, of just how important it is to find ways to care for our mental wellness.
Read on to learn more about the connection between mental health and physical health.
How Mental Health Impacts Physical Health
There are many ways in which someone’s mental health can adversely impact physical health.
Anxiety, for example, can impact one’s ability to get restful sleep. A lack of quality sleep can lead to a weakened immune system. A weakened immune system leaves the body vulnerable to all kinds of illness.
In a recent article, Registered Nutritionist Rhian Stephenson explained the link between mental and physical health this way:
“Our mental health will also affect how we feel in our body in more obvious ways,” explained Stephenson. “Sleep health, motivation and energy for exercise, response to exercise and appetite can all be positively and negatively impacted by our emotional state. For example, studies have shown that emotional states such as anxiety and depression can increase insulin resistance, which over time can lead to not only diabetes but increase the risk for other chronic illnesses that are associated with insulin dysregulation.”
In recent years, the impact that mental health has had on physical health has become better understood. With the development of the ACE test, we can predict with near certainty how someone’s health will progress, or deteriorate, over time by assessing the amount of trauma experienced in childhood.
A study done in 2019 by BMC analyzed the survey results from a 1979 survey and determined that ACE results predicted a diabetes diagnosis for women with an ACE score of 2 or higher. Research has also shown that a traumatic childhood is correlated with the development of arthritis.
It isn’t, of course, a failproof method to determine future outcomes. Many variations can determine what happens as a child grows up: Did they have access to mental health tools? Did they have supportive adults in their lives? Did they find a safe environment to heal? The answers to these questions can also help determine the impact of trauma on mental and physical health.
Mental Health in Healthcare Providers
Healthcare workers, such as nurses, doctors, and technicians, aren’t immune to mental health issues. The CDC spells out clearly that mental health stressors have always been a part of the job, even prior to the pandemic. Common stressors include:
Intensely stressful and emotional situations in caring for those who are sick
Exposure to human suffering and death
Unique pressures from relationships with the patient, family members, and employers
Working conditions with ongoing risk for hazardous exposures such as infectious diseases, hazardous drugs, and more
Demanding physical work and risk of injuries
Long and often unpredictably scheduled hours of work. This is often related to as-needed scheduling, unexpected double shifts, and unpredictable intensity of on-call work.
Unstable and unpredictable work lives, and financial strain (Source: CDC)
With the added trauma of a worldwide pandemic, statistics are showing that mental distress is going up for healthcare workers. In a recent study that measured the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on healthcare workers, 82% of healthcare workers said they were emotionally exhausted, 70% said they struggled with sleep, and 63% said they dreaded coming to work.
Covid and Mental Health
With the pandemic still going on, mental health is often featured in news headlines. Never before has mental wellness been at the forefront of the world’s mind in quite the same way that it has been these last few years.
With job losses, income loss, and life interruptions, mental wellness issues have begun to spike. Increased isolation due to lockdowns and a constant stream of news at the ready any time we pick up our phones means that anxiety and depression have been increasing at alarming rates. This is particularly true for vulnerable people already at risk for adverse mental health symptoms such as the elderly, the poor, and other marginalized groups.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic recession have negatively affected many people’s mental health and created new barriers for people already suffering from mental illness and substance use disorders. During the pandemic, about 4 in 10 adults in the U.S. have reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder, a share that has been largely consistent, up from one in ten adults who reported these symptoms from January to June 2019
Mental health is also an important issue to consider when it comes to the mission field. Missionaries, of course, are not exempt from stress. Indeed, many things on the mission field can be extremely distressing to experience and, if self-care is not a priority, can lead to adverse experiences on this job.
Burn-out, anxiety, and depression are common stressors in the mission field. When you are deep in the work, it can be all too easy to forget to care for your own health too. When everywhere you look is a soul who needs Jesus or a child who needs clean water or medical attention, it’s easy to forget your own needs in the process. This is when mental health tends to become a struggle.
“Research confirms that 94% of missionaries experience trauma on the field with 86% being exposed to multiple incidents; yet, only half of these individuals reported suffering Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms. Of those surveyed, 43% developed a diagnosable mental disorder.”
Robert Bagley, “Trauma and Traumatic Stress Among Missionaries,” Journal of Psychology and Theology 31, no. 2
With these types of numbers, it is absolutely essential to consider mental health as a part of self-care when it comes to serving in the mission field. Having a safe community of people to turn to for support is of the utmost importance. Seeking out professional help from qualified therapists should be encouraged.
The more we understand mental health, the better off our work as the servants of the Living God will be.
What Can We Do?
First, it’s important to note that mental health struggles are a normal part of life and there is nothing shameful about them. Everyone experiences some amount of trauma that needs processing. Everyone also goes through some form of grief, depression, or anxiety.
If you suspect that you have been struggling with any aspect of your mental health, please reach out to a trained professional who can help you assess and come up with a treatment plan.
If you have a loved one or a friend who struggles with their mental health, be a support for them. Let them know they are safe in your presence to speak about their feelings and experiences. And always encourage them to seek out professional help when it is needed.
And lastly: whether you are on the mission field or not, remember to prioritize your self-care. Get lots of rest, exercise regularly, and eat food that is nutritious for your body. Don’t forget to surround yourself with a supportive community that you can trust and lean on when you need them.
If your mental or emotional state quickly gets worse, or you’re worried about someone you know – help is available. You’re not alone; talk to someone you …
Once you decide you want to learn more and you go through the process of signing up and preparing to go, you will be so excited and joyful about the work you may do, that you wish the first day would arrive. Multiple things in life may compete for your focus till then. We would like to share three ways to focus on things of good report that will help keep the joy and excitement fresh while we wait.
Whatever is True, Whatever is Noble
Philippians 4:8 is one of the most encouraging Bible verses. It contains so much simple wisdom we can continue following every day.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.” Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
When we consider what we do as medical missions volunteers through the perspective of “whatever is true, whatever is noble”, we find we are able to think upon what God is doing already that we don’t know that is of good report. He has always done amazing things for us and with us. We can turn our focus to the opportunities around us to do good. Also, we can be thankful for the many ways we will get to serve again as we hope to one day.
Whatever is Pure, Whatever is Lovely
Medical professionals and volunteers are not immune to having a bad day. Everyone experiences moments of being annoyed or tired, for example, especially when multiple things simultaneously go differently than planned.
Before you are under such pressure is a great time to think about what strategies you might employ. Think of it like a tool in your self-care kit. One way to do this is that when ugly thoughts enter your mind, immediately evict them with opposing thoughts of what is pure and what is lovely.
For example, if you are working and suddenly find yourself concerned about how long it is taking to receive your passport in the mail, think about how wonderful it will be to present your new passport to the ticket agent one day. Think of the smiling face of a patient who has just received a good report. Consider the people in a community washing their hands in clean new water. There is so much good news to take note of each day!
Whatever is Admirable
The new year has begun, and with it come new opportunities to grow and use your gifts to spread the good news of Jesus and help provide basic health care in places where people are unable to access it. You can do this at home or where you work while you wait to go on a medical missions trip. All around you are valuable ways to make a difference. You can partner with someone who is already in another country, donate to them, help them brainstorm, or partner with people who are doing this too. You can donate to nearby groups or causes, volunteer to help someone where you are, start a blog, or do many things!
We believe every person has so much valuable experience to share, and we are thankful if you are interested in volunteering with us. We’ve seen many good things happen! Also, we are thankful for you however you join our endeavors to bring health, hope, and healing to parts of the world where people are unable to obtain basic medical care. While some difficult things such as COVID-19 are going on in the world today, there are also many good things going on in the world today too! It’s a big decision at times to focus on things of good report, but if you choose it, it’s also truly amazing! It will positively impact your life and the lives of others forever.
It is easy to become used to dealing with whatever comes up during the moment. What will I need to do tomorrow to make next week more productive? What actions do I need to take to be ready for this big event several months ahead? Inwardly we know God has it all worked out though. We can rest like one who sleeps in the wind because the work is already done. Everything that is going on in the world today has already been envisioned and lovingly provided for by God. Even that thing–yes! We have found it can help to focus on scripture or words that are inspired by God when we pray or make plans.
We believe that life is filled with blessings and opportunities to both be blessed and a blessing to others. Our upcoming trip to Benin is one possible way, and we know it’s on a lot of hearts. With that in mind, we gathered three scriptures to pray from and keep close to you this summer as you move toward autumn and all that it requires.
Scripture: Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
These types of scriptures encourage us that we are not at the end of a thing while we go through it. God hears your prayers. He sees your tears and senses your concerns. You are not alone right now or when you go on your upcoming mission trip. Right now is an excellent time to press in and see that the Lord is so good! As we continue faithfully committed to the work at hand, we are assured that God is with us, and all will work out in a way we could not have imagined. Missions work is hard work, and it is worth it!
Scripture: Romans 10:13-15
“For ‘everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’ How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!’”
God has always intended for us to be missions-minded in one way or another, even before the fall of Adam and Eve. The way we do this now since that fall did happen, is through all the opportunities we create so we can live in a way that others see God’s love at work. We share the gospel in Treasures, on social media. Whenever we share a testimonial, scriptures, or get into a conversation that invites this encouragement. We share it when we live out our faith in giving of our time, resources, energy, and prayers. Our hands, feet, and mouths are made for this. Hearts and minds can be full of joy and hope as we look forward to all the ways we will be a part of the blessings others receive all over the world as we serve and love with our lives.
Scripture: Joshua 1:9
“Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
We can be sure of our heavenly Father lighting the way at all times. He cares about what is going on globally. The intricate details of each personal need, hope, or dream matter to Him. He knows the best way to accomplish every goal. He knows what it will take for every person to be strengthened, encouraged, and active in the service into which they are called. We can be courageous and take action even when we are unsure of what to expect because we know God is God. He is with us and for us wherever we go.
Are you considering going on a mission’s trip?
If you’re new to praying from scriptures, one way to do it is to change some of the words into a prayer. For example, if you pray from Galatians 6:9, you could reflect on the scripture and pray how you usually pray. You could say “I will not grow weary in doing good. When the time is right, I will reap a harvest if I do not give up!”
If you’ve been thinking about joining a medical missions team, check out information on our upcoming medical mission trip to Benin. If you’re interested in learning more about our current upcoming 2021 destinations, have a look here. Do you need some questions answered before you say yes? We’d love to answer your questions about joining our team. Click here to submit your question via our contact page. We look forward to hearing from you!
Have you registered to go on your first medical mission’s trip or do you plan to do that in the future? Group leaders are supportive and helpful when it comes to information on how to prepare yourself for a trip, and there is no lack of information for anyone who is earnest in making the most of their moments of service, prayer, and encouragement away from home. You can find out a lot on this website and on the Mission Partners for Christ Facebook page as well!
To help you get ready in different ways you might not have considered yet, we have put together this list of three things you can do this summer to prepare for going on a medical mission’s trip.
Listen to the mission’s teams who share their testimonies in church
The teams who come to visit your churches are one inspiring source of information, and so are others within your church or community who have gone on any type of mission’s trip. This may be how many of us first came in contact with the idea of medical mission’s trips. While no trip is exactly the same as another, this one thing can be an encouragement and well of wisdom. Listen to the missionaries or team members sharing their presentations or testimonies. Ask good questions. Consider staying in contact with some of the out-of-town missionaries who encourage this–by writing letters, sending emails, or through their preferred mode of communication.
You might be surprised to find there are all sorts of people who go on mission’s trips. Many are not in full-time ministry, but also are employed in other professions such as doctors, nurses, medical technicians, teachers–or they are students or families who take time off to serve on mission’s trips. You can learn so much by connecting with other like-minded people.
Watch medical care and mission’s trip documentaries
Medical care documentaries are often easier to find than mission’s trip documentaries. One is usually available online and the other tends to be shared in churches or at small group gatherings. Both are on Netflix and Amazon Prime. These movies may not provide a full picture of what is going on, but will help you to understand issues and history involved with medical care and missions.
Cover yourself and all the people going on a trip in prayer
Your mission team group may have specific prayers you share with one another from a booklet or on a website or group leader emails, but you can pray in addition to this. You could pray for the people where you are going who will be served, the people in every port of entry and all things related to transportation and shipping, the medical team and medical supplies, any medical teams you will be working with, and more. You could pray to make new lasting friendships, learn new skills, and to serve in the best ways possible for you personally to serve.
Cover your life in prayer as well as the lives of those close to you. We know sometimes when something big is going on to bring glory to God’s name, if the enemy of our faith can’t wear you down or wear out, he may try to wear down or wear out those around you. Practice good self care and be in continual prayer. Want more specific prayer ideas? We once shared a list of seven prayers to pray before going on a mission’s trip that would be good to pray at this time.
Share your comments with us
These are just three things to help you prepare for your first medical mission’s trip. Can you think of anything else? Head over to the Mission Partners for Christ Facebook page share your thoughts and experiences with us. Is there any way you would like us to pray for you? Share that too! We love to hear from you!
Many health care workers are on the front lines of the fight against Covid-19. In this crisis, it’s not unusual to work back to back 12 to 16-hour shifts in extremely stressful environments. Every day the front-line workers risk contracting the virus themselves and/or taking it home to their families. Health care workers are carrying an enormous amount of stress and it can quickly become overwhelming. Implementing good self-care habits can help.
Sustained, high levels of stress poses a threat to the physical and emotional wellbeing of health care workers. Practicing or creating self-care routines during times like this is crucial to reducing both the short and long-term impacts of stress.
Here are a few easy to implement self-care habits you can add to you your day to release some of the physical, mental, and spiritual pressure you’re feeling:
Private prayer time is a great place to start looking at self-care.
Most of us understand the power of prayer for communication with God, but we tend to underestimate the impact it has on lowering our stress. We believe God is listening to us, wants what’s best for us, and loves us, BUT, in a crisis, it’s easy to justify not having the time or space for prayer.
Scheduling time to pray every day puts you in contact with the creator of the universe and creates a space to unload everything you’re carrying for other people. Letting down your guard and speaking honestly about your fears and grief with God can significantly lighten your load.
Simply praying and saying “Father, I am scared, please help me through this day” can be enough to refresh your soul, provide peace, and start good self-care.
Put your own oxygen mask on first, practicing good self-care taking with your physical needs.
Just like on a plane, when the flight attendant is walking you through the instructions should the cabin lose pressure, you put your oxygen mask on first BEFORE you help the person beside you. What does this mean to you? You can’t help people if you are physically burned out. You can’t do your best work if you never take a break, don’t eat nourishing foods, and don’t rest enough.
When managing a crisis, it’s easy for our body to get caught up in the adrenaline response and push right past the normal eat, drink, rest cues. Set timers to remind yourself when it’s time to meet your body’s physical needs. Make sure you have nourishing foods on hand that can be prepared and eaten quickly so you are less tempted to skip them.
It is imperative that you regularly check in with yourself and ask “How am I doing?”.
This is something that you can do on a schedule. Set an alarm so that 3 times a day you are asking how am I doing, do I need food, water, sleep, or movement? Do I need to run, do I need to create something? Do I need to punch a bag or whatever it is that you do to help your body to release the stress that you are carrying?
Acknowledge that your pain is real and important. This form of self-care is so necessary.
As first responders, you may have the tendency to serve others first and put off your own feelings until a much later date. Sometimes we minimize our own pain because we see others’ suffering as “worse”.
First, I want you to trust that your feelings are normal, valid, and perfectly OK. The way you walk through this season doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s journey.
Second, I want you to know that you have a choice in what you do with those emotions. You can choose to take those emotions and dump them out at the feet of Jesus during your prayer time. Other ways to process the emotions that you are feeling could be writing in a journal, play with your pet, take a long hot relaxing bath or shower, listen to soothing music, read a book, whatever feels like it might provide you a healthy release for you.
Get help, no matter how busy you are. Asking for help is good self-care and other-care.
This is a stressful time. Healthcare workers and those in supporting roles are carrying heavy burdens for patients and their families. Under the added pressure it can be easy to try to stuff your emotions or put them off until ”later”. That’s easier said than done and emotions, especially complex ones like fear, anger, and grief, tend to demand our attention.
If you don’t have a support system in place to work through those emotions, it can be easy to turn to emotional eating, alcohol, and other coping strategies that further undermine your ability to handle crises. Often these are old habits that we don’t even realize we are doing to just cope with stress so it’s important to be attentive to how we process these complex emotions.
Not sure which one will work for you? Pick one that looks easy and try it today. If writing stresses you out then don’t grab a journal, instead, crank up that favorite song of yours and belt it out at the top of your lungs! Not a pet person? Maybe a hot shower and a few moments of privacy and quiet will recharge you. Or light a candle and just focus on a few moments of deep breathing.
There isn’t a right or a wrong way to do any of these techniques and these aren’t the only ways you can care for yourself.
What’s most important is to find self-care that works for you and make it a priority in your daily routine.
Please know that the MPFC team values you and the work that you do so much! We know the losses would be much greater without the incredible care that you are providing during this health crisis. THANK YOU! We are praying for you.
May God Bless you and keep you and make His face shine upon you!
