Faith and Focus

When I was 14, I didn’t want to wake up another day. I felt numb, exhausted, and completely alone. I truly didn’t believe I’d make it to the end of high school, let alone writing something like this. That’s the thing about depression, it messes with your head. It lies. It tells you that there’s no way out. But it’s not true. The only reason I’m still here today is because I asked for help. My parents, my therapist, and my faith held onto me when I couldn’t hold onto myself.
I look back now, and I’m not ashamed of where I’ve been. That dark chapter of my life helped me grow into someone who wants to help others. This blog is part of a Capstone Project for my senior year. Yes, I’m graduating in days from now. This project didn’t just teach me about school and mental health, it taught me about survival, forgiveness, and what it means to keep going when it would be easier to quit. One of the most important things I learned? It really does get better. Maybe not all at once, and maybe not in the way you expect, but it will get better. You can heal. You won’t feel stuck forever.
So if you’re reading this and you feel like giving up, please hear me. You are not alone. There is help. There is hope. And there is a future for you that is so much bigger than what you’re facing right now. Keep going, even when it’s hard. Talk to someone. Don’t be afraid to say, “I’m not okay.” That one sentence could save your life. It saved mine.

I wish healing came with a calendar. I wish I could’ve told myself, “You’ll be okay by this day,” and actually believe it. But real life doesn’t work that way. This year, even while working on my Capstone project about teen mental health, I hit a rough patch myself. I felt overwhelmed, missed deadlines, and fell into the same habits I’d worked so hard to get out of. I was finding myself shutting down, avoiding things, and telling myself I wasn’t good enough. I recognized that downward spiral, but I wasn’t able to push myself out of it quickly.

At first, as I often am, I was frustrated with myself. I’ve always wanted to be the “perfect” student, but especially now because this topic meant so much to me. I had to face something really hard. That being mean to myself wasn’t helping. What actually helped was giving myself grace. I had to learn to forgive myself when I couldn’t keep it all together. I worked to stop calling myself lazy or broken and started reminding myself I’m just human. I’m a 17 year old that still has a lot of life and learning. I believe that is the first step toward healing is accepting where you are without feeling ashamed. It’s not easy and it’s okay to not be okay all the time.

This blog is all about being real with yourself and others. There is no perfect timeline for getting better. You don’t have to prove anything to deserve help. You just have to keep showing up and know that is a brave thing. You are doing hard things and you are doing them for your future self. That is worth it.

A lot of us walk into school every day carrying way more than just a backpack. We’re dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, past trauma, or just constant stress that never lets up. But no one really talks about it. It’s like people think school and mental health are two totally different things — but they’re not. When your mind isn’t okay, showing up, paying attention, or getting stuff done feels almost impossible. Research shows that students with mental health issues are more likely to struggle with grades, repeat a year, or even drop out (“Does School Cause Mental Illness?”).

Mental health challenges is not just kids in really difficult life situations. Even students in rich neighborhoods or top schools deal with this. One study said kids in high-achieving schools can be just as mentally drained as kids in foster care or with parents in jail. Mental health doesn’t care who you are or where you’re from — it hits everyone. Kids spend so much of their time in school, making it so important for them to support mental health.

This and many other reasons are why schools need to be part of the solution. If teachers and counselors could recognize the signs earlier and actually make school a safe place to open up, it could seriously help people. Just knowing someone’s got your back makes a huge difference. I have been lucky enough to have many helpful teachers in my situation, but honestly it’s still really hard.

I know there are things we can all do that will help us in school. Things like using a planner, having a daily routine, practicing self-care, etc. (See blog post titled “Help you can actually use.” for more.) Having ADHD or other things on top of the anxiety and depression truly make it difficult to pull all of these things together, even with the best intentions. Getting enough sleep and taking care of your body is super important too. One article even said that sleep helps with memory, both short- and long-term (“How Students with ADHD Can Be Successful in College”). My school started a new schedule this year for high schoolers. We have 2 late starts per week, with the idea that we need more sleep. This has been really helpful in my opinion.

We know more information about this every year, so I hope that every school will do more and more each year to help their students. What do you think? Does your school do things to help with mental health? Is it enough?

Faith and Mental Health

Can Faith Help When I’m Struggling?

Yes, faith can remind you that you’re not alone, even when life feels heavy. Faith will not make your problems disappear, but for many people it’s a blessing. God isn’t afraid of your anxiety, your sadness, or your questions. He sees you, hears you, and walks with you.

Mental health is real. So is God’s peace. And they can go together.

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV)

It’s okay to have both a therapist and a Bible. It’s okay to pray and also ask for help. You were never meant to carry it all by yourself.

It’s normal to wonder why you are here or what your life is supposed to be about. You don’t have to have it all figured out. God created you on purpose, for a purpose and that purpose is unfolding, even when you can’t see it yet.

You are loved, chosen, and called. Not just sometimes, but now and always.

Bible Verses for Hard Days

Here are some verses you can come back to when you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure.

When You’re Stressed:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NIV)

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 NIV)

When You’re Afraid:

“So do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you and help you.” (Isaiah 41:10 NIV)

When You Feel Alone:

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18 NIV)

When You’re Struggling to Believe in Yourself:

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago” (Ephesians 2:10 NIV)

Short Devotionals for Students

Dealing with Stress

When life feels like too much, it’s easy to think you’re failing. But stress doesn’t mean weakness, it only means you are human. Even Jesus took time to rest, pray, and be alone when things were hard.

“But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” (Luke 5:16 NIV)

Take a breath. Pray this simple prayer:
“God, I feel overwhelmed. Please give me peace and help me know what to do next.”
One step at a time is enough.

Facing Fear with Courage

Fear can feel like a wall that blocks us from moving forward. It might be fear of failing a test, not fitting in, or the unknown future. But the Bible reminds us that courage doesn’t mean being without fear — it means trusting God even when we are afraid.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9 NIV)

The Serenity Prayer

This is something that I learned from my time at a mental health facility

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.

Finding Peace in a Busy World

Life can get really hectic. Between homework, friendships, family, and everything else, it’s easy to feel like there’s no time to breathe. But God offers peace — not a peace that depends on our circumstances, but a peace that lasts no matter what.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27 NIV)

Peace doesn’t always mean things get easier right away. Sometimes it means choosing to trust God even when your mind is racing. It’s okay to take breaks, breathe deeply, and remind yourself that God is in control.

Today, try to find a quiet moment, even if it’s just for a minute, and breathe in God’s peace. Let your heart rest in Him.

Faith + Mental Health: It’s Not Either/Or

Some people think that if you have enough faith, you won’t struggle mentally. That’s not true. Many people in the Bible, like David, Elijah, and even Jesus felt sadness, fear, and deep emotional pain.

Mental health struggles aren’t a sign of weak faith or weakness. It’s a part of being human.

If you’re dealing with anxiety or depression, talk to someone. God works through counselors, medicine, rest, friendship, and prayer. There is no shame in healing.

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy and with my song I praise him.” (Psalm 28:7 NIV)

Finding Your Purpose

It’s normal to wonder why you’re here or what your life is supposed to be about. You don’t have to have it all figured out. God created you on purpose, for a purpose, and that purpose is unfolding, even when you can’t see it yet.

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7 NIV)

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV)

Faith and Mental Health Journal Prompts

• What fears or worries am I carrying right now? How can I invite God into those feelings?
  Write honestly and then try to pray or meditate on Joshua 1:9.
• When have I felt God’s peace in a difficult situation before? How can I remember that today?
  Reflect on a past experience where faith helped you feel calm or strong.
• When do I feel most connected to my spiritual beliefs and practices?
  Describe your favorite ways to connect (prayer, meditation, going to a church service, youth group, etc.) How do these impact your mental health?

Whether you are stressed about school, feeling anxious, or just having a hard day, you are not alone and there are real tools and support systems that can help. This post includes resources for reaching out, tips for staying on top of school, and ways to take care of yourself every day. You are doing hard things and you are brave, do not forget that.

AT SCHOOL

Get Support: Talk to Someone Who Cares

Talking to a teacher or counselor can feel scary, but it’s one of the most helpful things you can do. School counselors are there to help with stress, anxiety, and mental health.

Here’s how to start the conversation:

• Pick a quiet time. Try: “Can I talk to you privately when you have a minute?”
• Be honest, even if it’s awkward. Try: “I’ve been really stressed and it’s starting to affect school. I think I might need some support.”
• Don’t worry if you don’t have all the words. You can write a short note or email if that feels more comfortable.

Hotlines & Helplines (For Immediate Support)

If you need someone to talk to right away, here are free and confidential places to call or text:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
📞 Call or text 988 — Available 24/7
🌐 988lifeline.org

Crisis Text Line
📱 Text HELLO to 741741 to connect with a trained counselor

Teen Line
📞 Call (800) 852-8336 (6–10 PM PT)
📱 Text TEEN to 839863
🌐 teenlineonline.org

You’re never bothering anyone, these resources exist for people just like you.

Books & Podcasts for Teens

Here are some recommendations that are helpful and real:

• Books/Spiritual:
  “You Are Not Alone” by Jennie Allen
  “Stop the Spiral Devotional” by Jennie Allen
• Books/Fiction:
  “The Dark Matter of Mona Starr” by Laura Lee Gulledge
  “We Are All So Good at Smiling” by Amber McBride
• Books/Non-Fiction/Guidebooks:
  “I would, but my DAMN MIND won’t let me!: a teen’s guide to controlling their thoughts and feelings” by Jacqui Letran, MSN
  “The Teens’ Workbook to Self Regulate” by Richard Bass
• Podcasts:
  Teenager Therapy
  Mindful Teen *check the website as well mindfulteen.org
  She Persisted

Tools to Stay Focused and Organized

Weekly Planner Template

Get yourself a planner to organize your school week, goals, and self-care:
(You can also use a notes app, reminders or Google Calendar)

Within a planner, create a daily routine. A consistent routine provides structure, which can be a comfort and help you feel more in control in hard times. Your routine should also help you to reduce being overwhelmed.

Prioritize Self-Care

Make time for things that are relaxing for you. Examples could be connecting with nature, going for a walk, listening to music, or getting together with a friend that is easy to be yourself with. Pay attention to the things that make you happy and relaxed.

Study Tips That Actually Work

• Break big tasks into small steps that are more manageable to help you feel a more immediate sense of progress and accomplishment.
• Set realistic goals
• Celebrate yourself for completing tasks to boost a release of dopamine, which can in turn give you a rise in serotonin. This will also help to build your momentum and maintain your motivation.
• Prioritize the most important assignments and focus on doing them first.
• Move to different areas around your home or try a coffee shop to break up the monotony.
• Take a short walk or go to the gym to boost mood and energy levels.
• Use timers (like the Pomodoro Method: 25 min study, 5 min break).
• Try focus apps like Forest, Study Bunny, or Notion.
• Ask for help from a friend, family, therapist, or teachers when you are struggling to stay focused or organized. Being isolated in your stress is not helpful. Remember many people like to help others, asking is a brave thing to do.

Daily Check-In Checklist

Ask yourself:

• Did I drink enough water today?
• Did I get at least 6–8 hours of sleep?
• Did I eat something nourishing?
• Did I eat enough protein?
• Did I go outside or take a break from my screen?
• Did I do something calming or enjoyable?

Mental Health Journal Prompts

Try writing about:

• “What am I grateful for today?”
• “What does ‘self-care’ mean to me?”
• “What’s something that made me feel anxious today?”
• “What do I need more of this week?”
• “When was the last time I felt proud of myself?”

Don’t feel pressure to write every day. Check in with yourself when you can.

Techniques for Anxiety or Stress

Box Breathing (4–4–4–4)

• Inhale for 4 seconds
• Hold for 4 seconds
• Exhale for 4 seconds
• Hold for 4 seconds
• Repeat 3–4 times until you feel calmer.

5-4-3-2-1 Sensory Grounding

When your brain feels overwhelmed, try this:

• 5 things you can see
• 4 things you can feel
• 3 things you can hear
• 2 things you can smell
• 1 thing you can taste

This helps pull your mind back to the present.

EFT/Tapping: The Butterfly Hug Technique

• Cross your arms over your chest, similar to how you would hug yourself.
• Your hands should rest on your upper arms.
• Begin tapping or gently patting your hands alternately on your upper arms.
• The movement should be soothing and rhythmic.

Save this post, share it with a friend and remember you are not alone.