The remarkable personal story Elder Kopischke (General Authority Seventy) told about mental health in general conference by Trent Toone (Deseret News)

What key points did Elder Kopischke’s talk give on mental health?

• “To combat such deception, it is important to remember that the Savior loves each of His Father’s children. … Challenges often indicate a need for additional tools and support and are not a character defect.”
• Elder Kopischke related a personal experience about his son dealing with severe panic attacks, anxiety and depression, which led to him coming home early from his Latter-day Saint mission. His son fell into hopelessness and nearly committed suicide, but survived and over time his condition improved thanks to an outpouring of love, along with medical, therapeutic and spiritual care.
• “It can be difficult for parents to identify their children’s struggles, but we must educate ourselves,” Elder Kopischke said. He urged families to study the topic of “mental health” in the Life Help section of the Gospel Library app.
• “There is not a simple cure-all for emotional and mental wellness. … Regardless of our mental and emotional well-being, focusing on growth is healthier than obsessing about our shortcomings.”
• “Educating ourselves about mental illness prepares us to help ourselves and others who might be struggling. Open and honest discussions with one another will help this important topic to receive the attention it deserves.”
• “One of the first things we need to learn is that we are certainly not alone.”
• “Learning will lead to more understanding, more acceptance, more compassion, more love. It can lessen tragedy, while helping us develop and manage healthy expectations and healthy interactions.”
• “We need to constantly watch over each other. We must love one another and be less judgmental — especially when our expectations are not immediately met.”
• Those personally affected by mental illness need to “hold fast to your covenants, even if you might not feel God’s love at this time.”

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