“It’s all in your head, just get over it!” I shuddered at the mere thought of typing that statement, but it is, of course, a sentiment that you may have heard, or said. Whether the speaker’s intent is innocent or malicious often has little to do with the fact that the ‘it’ leaves you feeling heavier than before.
We live in a society that is prone to extremism. Cultural beliefs, societal shifts and foundational upbringing may have forced us to believe that some version of the extreme is the way of life. In humanities attempt to remain in control we pendulum between trying to do everything all at once or doing absolutely nothing at all. If you find yourself needing mental, emotional, physical, or even spiritual healing, both extremes seem to push towards avoidance or self-reliance. Where do you see the Creator in that?
Is it wrong to get help?
Without getting into the debate of “therapy and theology” which seems to perpetually be a thorn in my side, I have only one question to ask; is it wrong to get help? I am of the personal conviction that the “just get over it” mentality is damaging and sells an alienating interpretation of the hope we have and love of our Creator.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds [healing their pain and comforting their sorrow]” (Psalm chapter 147, verse 3).
For us to be comforted and healed like this scripture in Psalms says, we cannot go through life with an avoidance or even the “just get over it” mentality. If we do so, we risk intrenching the idea that we can, in fact, care for our own worries. Whether we’re talking about spiritual, physical, emotional, or mental health, acknowledging our dependence on God for help is always the first step. We cannot find ourselves healed, stepping into wholeness, or working on our salvation without knowing that we need comfort and help.
Is it a sign of weakness?
Anyone that’s ever heard any version of “it’s in your head” or “just get over it” knows that there comes a point where your need for help is seen as weakness. That’s entirely not the case. Turning to help, is a sign of strength and an ability to see beyond the pain.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”” (Jeremiah chapter 29, verse 11).
Although this is a well-known and abundantly quoted scripture, how often have you stopped to consider this in context. Personally, I have heard the scripture quoted in times of financial distress, emotional turmoil and all types of situations, but how often do we step back and consider that the Creator of the universe wants good for us.
Should we not, in turn, support those around, giving them a hope for the future and standing with them beyond the “just get over it” mentality? A part of us developing and becoming more like Christ is to extend compassion in trying to help those who choose to confide in us, directing their hopes towards the brightness of the Son.
Well, just get over it
Maybe I’m wrong. Maybe you think that mental health, healing, emotional wholeness are things we can attain in and of ourselves. Hey, maybe I am wrong. But I stand on the firm belief that our faith in the God that is beyond our human comprehension extends to the realms of the entirety of our creation – from the physical intricacies of our very DNA to the depth of our character and emotions. Well, just get over it. Like John chapter 10, verse 10 says our portion in Christ is to have a full life.
Starting today, seek help where you need it. Reach out to someone you trust for help, reach out for someone to hold you accountable and have a group of likeminded people to pray for you. Reach out to me if you feel led. Just reach out! Connection matters now more than ever.
Hailing from South Africa, Crystelda is an avid nerd and an unapologetic dreamer. With a BSc. Biological Sciences and BCom Hons in marketing, she has launched the Christian lifestyle blog - Selah Blogger and is the joint winner of the 2019 International Theology Award. The blog can be found at https://selahblogger.wordpress.com/ and her previous articles may be viewed at https://www.pressserviceinternational.org/crystelda-naidoo.html