Faith and Mental Health: 5 Ways It Helps with Anxiety & Depression

Many people struggling with anxiety and depression focus on physical and mental solutions—therapy, medication, exercise, and self-care. While these are important, they don’t always bring complete healing. Sometimes, addressing the spiritual aspect of well-being is what’s missing. Our souls need purpose, hope, and connection to something greater than ourselves. In Word on Fire Podcast Episode 477, Bishop Barron shares how faith can bring peace and healing—not just for the mind and body, but for the soul as well.

1. Let Go of Control

Trying to control everything causes stress. Faith teaches us to trust in God, easing anxiety and strengthening our spiritual well-being.

2. Find Hope

Faith reminds us that our struggles have meaning and that there’s always hope, even in darkness. A strong spiritual foundation can help us see challenges as part of a greater plan.

3. Live in the Present

Anxiety often comes from worrying about the future. Faith helps us focus on today, embracing gratitude and trust in God’s timing.

4. Help Others

Serving others shifts focus away from our own worries and gives life purpose. Acts of kindness nourish the soul and deepen our connection to something greater than ourselves.

5. Overcome Fear of Death

Faith reassures us that life continues beyond this world, reducing fear and despair. Knowing we are part of an eternal story brings spiritual peace and purpose.

Mind and body approaches (i.e., therapy and medicine) are primarily used to address depression and anxiety, but spiritual well-being plays a key role in overall health as well, offering comfort, strength, and a sense of divine purpose.

Listen to the full episode here: wordonfire.org