The most important thing I can tell you is that God understands what you’ve been going through, and I want to assure you that He hasn’t rejected you or abandoned you. Nor does He look down on you, or treat you as a failure or outcast.

Instead, God loves you and wants to help you and encourage you. Do you believe this? It’s true – and the reason I know it’s true is because God’s own Son was willing to give His life for you. The Bible says, “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us” (1 John 3:16). If you have never asked Him to come into your life, I pray you will do so today.

Your parents’ attitude was unfortunate; perhaps it came from a misguided sense of pride. I’m thankful, however, that in general mental illness no longer carries the stigma it once did – nor should it. After all, some of God’s greatest servants across the ages struggled with depression and other mental problems. The Psalmist cried out, “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?” (Psalm 42:5).

But the Psalmist found new strength in God and His love – and so can you. Learn to walk with Christ every day – and then ask Him to help you to help others who face the same problems you have experienced.