Injustice: Who Cares About What I'm Going Through?

​I know there is a God, and that He hates injustice and slavery. I see the storm coming, and I know that His hand is in it. If he has a place and work for me and I think He has I believe I am ready. - Abraham Lincoln

It's not fair!

Injustice. Lots of things in life are not fair. Maybe your parents' marriage has fallen apart. Or one of them is living away from the family in order to earn more money. Maybe you've lost a parent through death.

Is there alcoholism or some other addiction in your home? Has someone you love been victimized by the corruption and greed of others?

Circumstances like these leave you feeling like there's no way out and no one to understand your hurts and confusion. But the fact is, God cares. He sent Jesus to show you his love and he sent his Holy Spirit to be your wise counselor; your constant companion, and your source of comfort.

Because of the presence of the Holy Spirit, Jesus was able to reassure his followers that no matter what happened he would always be with them and see them through any difficulty---clear up to the end! He makes the same promise to you.

Stuff You Need!

Fatigue

Maybe you think you have too much living to do, so you're adding hours to your day by cutting out on sleep. But does it really work? Here's what a habit of short nights will get you (less than 6 hours)

• Difficulty waking up in the morning
• Inability to concentrate and impaired memory
• Falling asleep in class
• Moodiness, irritability, depression, or anxiety

Establish a consistent sleep routine is one of the best ways to improve your mental. physical, and emotional health.

You probably already know what caffeine (a stimulant) can do to keep you from getting the rest you need, but what about the effects of nicotine and alcohol? Both of those substances prevent you from being able to fall into a deep sleep, the kind of sleep that fuels and repairs your body for the next day.

Stress and Depression

What stresses you out?

• Studies
• Negative thoughts and feelings
• Broken relationships
• Problems at home
• Changing schools
• Chronic illness
• Lack of money
• Traumatic memories

Just one of the above is enough to cause stress, but you may find that you're having to deal with more than one of them at a time. When this happens stress can turn into depression. Sometimes the progression is so gradual we don't even realize it. What are some signs of depression?

• Sadness that won't go away
• Irritability over even small things
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Lack of enthusiasm or motivation
• Anger, rage, anxiety
• Sudden decline in grades
• Thoughts of death or suicide

What should you do about it?

You are not alone. Feelings of depression are far too common. Reach out and talk to friends, parents, or teachers whom you trust. Avoid hanging out with those who use drugs and alcohol to cope with difficult situations. Above all, do not do anything that can cause permanent damage or death. Pray, tell to God all your burden and suffering. Ask Him for guidance and healing. Remember "suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem."

If your friend is talking about thoughts of suicide you are not betraying them if you tell a responsible adult. Even if you promised not to tell, your friend needs your help, and you would rather have them temporarily angry at you than gone forever.