Hello friend, and welcome to Empowered Faith Media, where we share the perfect love of Christ in an imperfect world. Today’s post is deeply personal and prayerfully offered.

I am old enough to remember when church folks’ advice was limited to prayer and fasting, when it came to depression and anxiety.  As a Christian woman, I’ve had my share of anxious thoughts and depressed moods. Even though I’ve worked in the field of mental health for many years, advocating for people who choose medication, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or a combination of both, I hesitated to seek help when it came to my struggles.

Why? Maybe because I believe so strongly in the power of prayer. I believe in God’s ability to heal. And yet, I’ve come to understand this truth: God does not want us to suffer in silence. As James 1:17 reminds us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.”

That includes the wisdom of doctors. The healing found in therapy. And the strength to say, “I need help.”

Today’s blog post is not meant to diagnose or persuade you in any specific direction. Instead, it’s here to encourage you: If you are struggling with your mental health, please seek professional support. You are not alone, and you are not less faithful for needing help.

What Is CBT and Why Do Some Christians Use It?

CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) is a proven method that helps you identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier, faith-affirming ones. It’s not about replacing prayer—it’s about partnering practical tools with spiritual truth.

Many Christian women find that CBT helps them break cycles of guilt, perfectionism, and fear by aligning their thoughts with what God says about them. Philippians 4:8 encourages us to think on “whatever is true, noble,  right, pure,  lovely, admirable.” CBT can help us practice that daily.

Faith and Treatment Can Coexist

Whether you choose therapy, medication, or natural supports like journaling and movement, remember: treatment is not a lack of faith. It is a wise, God-honoring step toward healing. God uses various tools to bring about restoration, including doctors, counselors, prayer warriors, Scripture, and community.

When to Seek Help

Some signs it’s time to reach out for help:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness
  
• Lack of motivation or interest in things you used to enjoy
  
• Fatigue or changes in sleep
  
• Thoughts of worthlessness or guilt
  
• Difficulty concentrating
  
• Withdrawal from loved ones
  

If this sounds like you or someone you love, please talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.

Scripture for the Journey

Here are a few verses that have comforted me and many others in dark seasons:

• Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
  
• Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you and help you.”
  
• 1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
  

Please share this post with someone you love 💌. Let us know in the comments: How have faith and mental health walked hand-in-hand in your life?

And don’t forget to check out our brand-new workbook, Walking in Faith: A 30-Day Journey of Reflection and Renewal. Are you a busy Christian woman yearning to deepen your connection with God but finding it challenging amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life?

This guided journal is a gentle path back to Him. It’s pay what you can, starting at just $4.99.

Until next time, my friend, take care of yourself and each other.
With Peace & Love,
Renee

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