For the past two years, a self-reliance group offered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been helping people strengthen emotional resilience through a stronger connection to Jesus Christ.
The group materials known as the “Finding Strength in the Lord: Emotional Resilience” course are now available globally in 30 languages. The course teaches principles of the Savior’s gospel that build spiritual strength and help people develop healthy coping skills to meet the challenges of life.
“As we learn and practice emotional resilience in our own lives, we can feel greater hope, which can anchor us to the Savior during tempestuous trials,” said Bishop L. Todd Budge, Second Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric. “And as we become more resilient ourselves, we can be a light for others amid their trials. Even in the midst of our trials, we can find hope and give hope to others by learning and practicing emotional resilience, including the skills taught in [this] course.”
The group focuses on skills such as developing healthy thinking patterns, managing stress and anxiety, understanding sadness and depression, overcoming anger and moving forward with faith in Jesus Christ.
“When we are in the middle of our trials, we can feel distant from the Savior,” said Presiding Bishop Gérald Caussé. “But we can hear [Christ] and receive guidance, even through our trials, by learning about the best resources for our needs. In many cases, seeking professional, therapeutic or medical help when needed, and resources like the ‘Finding Strength in the Lord: Emotional Resilience’ course can make it easier to perceive the Lord's guidance in your life.”
The emotional resilience manual and videos may be viewed in the Gospel Library under the Self-Reliance portion of Life Help (see here). Manuals are also available at Church distribution centers. Those interested in the program are encouraged to reach out to local Church leaders to learn when groups meet in their areas.
“Mental illness and other emotional trials are not always in our control,” Bishop Caussé said. “But we can make changes and seek help in order to strengthen our connection with and guidance from the Lord.”
Other self-reliance groups the Church offers include “Personal Finances,” “Starting and Growing My Business,” “Find a Better Job“ and “Education for Better Work.”