This burden is too heavy! Help me carry it.
The comment made by one of our faithful readers was right on. Being with a family member with mental and emotional distress is very difficult. We are trying to equip churches and community groups how to get involved and support the families and care givers as much as possible. (Hope and Change for Humpty Dumpty is an overview of the training.)
There is a lot of research that indicates that folks with a serious mental challenge can be significantly helped by Peer Helpers (Trained Lay Persons) who Befriend them and spend regular time with them. The goal is friendship and an ongoing relationship of relaxed time together.
When friendship occurs, symptoms decrease. Anxiety, depression, acting out, etc seem to happen less often. It is not a miracle but, as scripture says, "Faith, hope and love remain but the greatest is LOVE!
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