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INTRODUCTION
The pressure that young people are under and the impact it is having on their mental wellbeing has been well documented. This session explores how we can aid our sense of wellbeing by remembering to be still, before God. Be careful not to give the wrong impression about issues surrounding mental health and faith. You may need to seek additional advice or support from an organisation such as Livability, Youthscape or CAMHS.
As you begin the session, set up a graffiti wall with large sheets of lining paper and marker pens, and encourage the young people to add some of the things that they find pile up as pressures upon them. Give the young people time and space to add as many thoughts as they wish without drawing attention to any individual’s comments.
Gather the young people together and look at some of the things that have been written on the wall. Explain that you recognise some of the many pressures they feel, all of which can have a negative impact on their wellbeing. During this session, we will be looking at some of the things that can help us.
LISTEN AND DISCUSS
Play the track and as a group, discuss:
- How would you describe the feelings of the singer in this song?
- Is this something you can relate to, perhaps for yourself or for a friend?
- What helps us when we feel this way?
Explain to the group that it is important when we are struggling with our mental health that we seek support from the right places. These include the GP, counselling or support services, which you can help them access as appropriate.
In all circumstances, God promises to be with us, and help us as we find a way to still all the noise around us. Provide Bibles and, perhaps in smaller groups, invite the young people to take a look at some of the following verses: Psalm 46:10; Exodus 14:14; Psalm 37:7; Psalm 62:5; Psalm 131:2.
Encourage the young people to explore what these verses mean, and how they relate to our own experiences.
Explain to the group that we live in a very noisy world – physically, technologically, academically, mentally and emotionally – and that all that noise can cause us to be unsettled for a variety of reasons. Following God does not leave us immune from difficulties with mental health, but finding ways to help us to be still can help us to stay connected to God who can bring us peace. Share some examples of practical things you do that help you to calm yourself before God and to be still with him, encouraging your group to do the same.
As you draw the session to a close, pray together for the group and for any difficulties they may face. Challenge them to find some time in the week ahead to be still, with God. Ensure that you follow up any needs with the appropriate support.
