NOVEMBER 6, 2024 | CHRISTY PIERCE
Christy Pierce Discusses Faith, Therapy, and Youth Mental Health Crisis Solutions
Join Dan Chun in a heartfelt conversation with Christy Pierce, an ordained pastor and mental health advocate, as they discuss the multifaceted approaches to mental health, the importance of community support, and coping strategies for suicide, anxiety, and depression. Discover resources like the 1024 Movement, Lifeline training, and practical tools from Christy's book Lifeline: Hope in a Mental Health Crisis. Tune in for vital insights into addressing the mental health crisis affecting today's youth and adults.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
Embrace Multiple Paths to Mental Health:
Christy emphasizes the importance of holistic mental health approaches, including family doctor consultations, faith communities, and personal practices like journaling.
Takeaway: Start mental health checks with your family doctor, and don't hesitate to use your faith community for support.
Understanding the Crisis:
Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for young people aged 10 to 24.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health issues, particularly among young adults.
Takeaway: Be aware of this crisis and open channels for candid discussions about mental health within your community.
Support & Helplines:
The Hope and Healing Center offers free therapy sessions and has a national hotline (832-831-7337) available from 5-8 pm (CT.)
The National Suicide Prevention Hotline number is 988, and there's a crisis text line (text "HOME" to 741741).
Takeaway: Keep these numbers handy and share them as needed.
Empower the Younger Generation:
Christy's book "Lifelines," co-authored with her daughter Annie, educates young people on advocating for themselves and seeking help.
Takeaway: Encourage young people to identify trustworthy adults and cultivate safe spaces for mental health discussions.
Community Support & Faith:
Both Christy and Dan stress the church's potential role in mental health support, viewing faith in Jesus as a crucial lifeline.
Takeaway: Integrate your faith into mental health advocacy by fostering a supportive and non-judgmental community.
Practical Acts of Kindness:
Simple acts like sitting with lonely peers can prevent feelings of isolation and support mental well-being.
Takeaway: Practice proactive kindness throughout your day; small gestures can make a significant impact.
Christy Pierce
Christy Pierce is the President of New Hope Peninsula Ministries, a non-profit focused on helping individuals deepen their experience of God's presence and find healing through a personal relationship with Jesus. She holds a Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary and is an ordained pastor. Christy has authored three books–God is Whispering to You, Shut Up, and the recently released, Lifeline: Help in a Mental Health Crisis. She is a devoted mother of three young adults.
