Seasons of waiting are so hard. Especially in today’s digital age where we are used to things happening instantly. We get our questions answered in seconds by ChatGPT, Amazon offers same-day delivery, breaking news spreads in minutes all over social media. The human attention span has deteriorated so much so that even 5 minutes can feel difficult to sit and wait for something. We all know that real life doesn’t work as fast as the internet does, yet despite logically knowing this, it’s still so taxing to be in a season of waiting. These periods are confusing, challenging, and they test your patience. And who really wants their patience to be tested more than it already is everyday?

At some point or another, we will all have a friend or loved one affected by mental illness. When that happens, it can be uncomfortable or even overwhelming to know what to do or how to respond. You don’t want to be overbearing or annoying, but you want to show you care. A blanket “I’m here for you” statement doesn’t feel like enough, but you don’t know what else to say. So what can we do to better support those we love and care about who are dealing with a mental illness?