Counsels on Mental Health

Counsel #5 — Escalating/Deescalating Anxiety

Picture: Counsel #5 — Escalating/Deescalating Anxiety CMH 23.1

Alcohol, drugs, tobacco, and caffeine all escalate anxiety. Habit-forming and debilitating, these stimulants are difficult habits to break. Caffeine, for instance, is a drug that makes people think they are more alert and focused.^[21] But if you use it regularly, it can alter the make-up of your brain. If you try to quit, you may experience withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and nausea. But by persistent choice and relying on the strength of Jesus, anyone can overcome the craving and be released from bondage to these health and mind-destroying habits. CMH 23.2

In contrast, outdoor exercise, sunlight, plant-based foods, sufficient sleep and a low sugar, antioxidant-rich diet can deescalate anxiety and contribute toward health and peace. CMH 23.3

“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
1 Corinthians 10:31 NKJV CMH 23.4

“Satan tempts people to indulgence that will becloud reason and benumb the spiritual perceptions, but Christ teaches us to bring the lower nature into subjection. He never places before us that which would be a temptation. His whole life was an example of self-denial.” Ellen White in The Ministry of Health and Healing, p. 186.5 CMH 23.5

Reflect: What lifestyle changes could you make to decrease your anxiety? CMH 23.6