Blog Archives
Ministries Unlimited Thought For The Week (#12)
July 7, 2025Why do we sometimes treat people as "less than" just because they struggle or need support? Stigma has long been attached to those who live differently or face challenges beyond their control. Society does this for those with physical disabilities, mental health, homelessness, the unemployed, anyone needing help, or even based on where they live or the job they have. Rather than judging others, we should focus on how to support them in overcoming barriers and participating fully in society. Mental illness is finally out in the spotlight yet only 40% - 45% actually seek assistance. Anxiety (1 in 5 individuals) and depression (1 in 6 individuals) are two of the most common forms of mental health issues today. Anxiety disorders include conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Nearly half of those diagnosed with an anxiety disorder also experience depression.
This overlap is not surprising, as anxiety can lead to social withdrawal, which in turn creates conditions where depression can thrive. People living with anxiety may avoid social situations, employment, or daily responsibilities out of fear, leading to isolation. Over time, this lack of connection and support can fuel feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low self-worth — core traits of depression. The cycle becomes self-reinforcing: anxiety drives isolation, isolation deepens depression, and depression makes it even harder to reach out for help. The two disorders also share biological roots, such as imbalances in serotonin and other mood-regulating chemicals, which helps explain why they so often go hand-in-hand.
For individuals living in poverty, this cycle is even more severe. The stress of financial instability — worrying about food, housing, employment, or childcare — can trigger or worsen mental health conditions. Yet, those same individuals often avoid seeking help. Barriers like lack of insurance, transportation, or affordable counseling options can make access to mental health care nearly impossible. On top of that, stigma plays a powerful role: many fear being labeled as “unstable” or “weak,” particularly in communities where mental illness is misunderstood or judged. When someone is already struggling to meet basic needs, the added burden of shame or fear around asking for help can keep them trapped in silence — and in suffering. We can all break the stigma by guiding others toward available resources and showing compassion instead of judgement. None of us has life all figured out. Let’s cheer each other on, lift each other up, and keep pushing forward—together.
Submitted 7/7/2025 by Kathy Scheller, Director of Operations