Jeff shares a story about his fears out in the wild while his gracious father, Dean Given reads from Psalm 27. 

"The object of our waiting is always God."

We wrap up Mental Health awareness week on the PCOM podcast with brilliant and lovely author and therapist KJ Ramsey sharing the story of her new book "This Too Shall Last: Finding Grace When Suffering Lingers," describing how trauma can steal our tongues, and reveling in the hope of the Psalms.

Associate Dean of the Baylor School of Social Work, Dr. Holly Oxhandler, on pandemic coping strategies, the pressures of this uncertain season, and what to do if we or someone we love is feeling suicidal. 

COVID Mental Health Support

The Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (or text HOME to 741741)

Email Pastor Courtney for a mental health referral

Contact The Bridge Ministry for confidential spiritual care and prayer

Perfectly Hidden Depression by Margaret Robinson Rutherford

Our own Malaika Clelland shares strategies for coping with disappointment, the importance of small acts of self-care (are you eating well? getting enough sleep? staying connected to friends?), and the importance of acknowledging our feelings, big and small. Plus, selections from Psalm 69 from The Message and praying for those who struggle with anxiety and depression.

Email Pastor Courtney to confidentially request the list of counselors PCOM refers out to

The Anxiety Workbook 

Atlanta-based counselor specializing in adolescent mental health Robert Vore on ministering to our high schoolers, college students, and emerging adults.

Resources for further reading, from Robert (with notes!):

How some of the most well-loved hymns of the faith were written in remarkably difficult seasons of life. The history behind "It Is Well with My Soul," the echoes of heartache in the Psalms of lament, and praying for our listeners.

Jeff introduces two practical images that may help us enter into our practice of Centering Prayer. 

Is anyone else forgetting what day it is? Tips and tricks for remembering God when things are muddled. Plus, Psalm 22.

Poet David Wright reads "Making Confession," "Local Talent," and Psalm 32. Plus, how the pandemic is affecting universities, staff, and students and how we can pray.

Marlena Graves, author of "A Beautiful Disaster" and the upcoming "The Way Up is Down" on falling in love with Scripture, the hard but oh-so-powerful lessons of desert seasons, and Psalm 145.