“IT’S ALL IN YOUR HEAD!”
I’ve heard that statement throughout the years when people discuss things like anxiety, depression, and other mental/emotional health concerns. I actually believe – in many ways – that is a true statement, but I disagree with how it is used. It is usually said to minimize the person’s point of view or state of emotional distress. As if to say because it’s all in your head – it is all made up – and shouldn’t be a big deal – so suck it up, buttercup – and just get over it.
While neuroscience confirms that many elements of mental and emotional health lay within the “head” – that doesn’t make them made up or less real. In fact, the brain is the control center for emotions and the whole body. Which means, if it is all in your head – it will really impact your emotions and it will soon impact your whole body. This is why people experience stress induced fatigue, joint aches, lethargy, cardiovascular issues, muscle aches, and so much more. When it comes to mental and emotional health IT’S ALL IN YOUR HEAD and it is very real and very serious.
In many ways, the battle for your emotional wellbeing begins in the mind. One of the best evidence based theories in the counseling world is known as Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT). CBT insists that thoughts impact emotions, emotions impact behavior, and behavior reinforces the way we think. In traditional therapy – the battle for your behavior must eventually take place in the mind.
Thoughts of shame, past pain, and trust that keep us from deep and meaningful relationships (loneliness). Thoughts of worry, uncertainty, needing control, and fear keep us from experiencing peace (anxiety). Thoughts of discomfort, exhaustion, fantasy, and a need for escape/relief keep us from experiencing true freedom (addiction). All of these thoughts and elements of life are fought on the battlefield (in one form or another) of the mind.
IT’S ALL IN YOUR HEAD and that’s ok. Moreover – because it is all in your head, there is something you can do about it. Learning how to fight the battle of your mind and win over the “mind games” is crucial to your overall satisfaction and flourishing in life. More importantly – as followers of Jesus we have a supernatural help in the presence and power of God in the Holy Spirit. Paul reminds the church and believers in Rome: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” – Romans 12:2. Followers of Jesus are given a new mind – and a power to think differently about everything. We have incredible help to fight in the emotional “mind games” of our lives.
In so many ways – the battle of the mind is won one thought at a time. It’s important to remember you aren’t alone in your struggle. With the help of friends, counselors, mentors, and Jesus you can find healing. Curt Thompson, MD – a psychiatrist and author (“The Soul of Shame” and “The Soul of Desire”) reminds us that healing comes from safe and confessing communities. So if you’re looking to overcome some of the struggles in your mind – reach out and say something to someone. If it’s all in your head – the first step to healing is getting it “out of your head” and saying it out loud.
Josh Zoerhof 