In a deeply personal and powerful message, Elder Erich Kopischke shared the story of his son, who has battled severe anxiety and depression. Like many young people in the Church, this young man looked forward to serving a mission with enthusiasm and faith. When his mission call arrived, he accepted it eagerly and set out with hope in his heart.
But mental health challenges don’t always pause for spiritual milestones. Just four weeks into his mission, the weight of his anxiety and depression became overwhelming. Unable to carry on, he returned home—heartbroken and full of sorrow. He felt like he had failed, though nothing could have been further from the truth.
The pain didn’t stop there. In time, the burden became so crushing that this young man made the heartbreaking decision to end his life. Miraculously, he survived. Through the grace of God and the swift, loving actions of family members, friends, and inspired angels, he was given another chance at life.
Healing didn’t come all at once. His challenges didn’t vanish overnight. But step by step, with the care of skilled therapists, medical professionals, and the constant support of a loving community, he began to move forward. Ward members, neighbors, and peers wrapped their arms around him, offering compassion instead of judgment, encouragement instead of criticism.
You may sometimes wonder if you have enough strength to keep going. You might question whether you can make it through another day. But here’s the truth: you do have the strength—and not just your own. The Savior, Jesus Christ, came to earth to walk with you, to lift you, and to provide divine power and comfort when your own feels gone. He knows your pain, and He is right beside you every step of the way.
As Elder Kopischke so tenderly reminded us, let us each discover how near the Savior truly is. His love is real. His power is available.
And His grace is sufficient—not just for tomorrow, but for today.
Note: From “Addressing Mental Health,” general conference, Oct. 2021. For additional help and resources, see mentalhealth.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
dyejo
Guest Author
J Washburn
