The pain of depression is emotional, mental, and physical, all-consuming in its demand for our attention and energy. It’s hard to live life fully when bent under its crushing weight.

Henri Nouwen, a Catholic priest, spoke openly about his experience of chronic depression, and how he worked painstakingly toward joy through his life. Much of his insight falls into what we call mindfulness.

Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebration‑heavy holidays are often portrayed as uncomplicated experiences of joy and connection. But for many, the reality looks much more like dread, grief, anxiety, resentment, or exhaustion.

Crying can feel confusing. Sometimes the tears make sense — a loss, a conflict, a painful memory. Other times, they seem to appear without warning, leaving you wondering why you’re crying or why you can’t seem to hold it together.

Christians sometimes think that self-care is selfish and should be avoided as we follow Jesus' instructions to "take up your cross and follow me." In fact, self-care is crucial.