Tsunami and Sucker Punch

by a Care Giver

“Tsunami” and “sucker punch” are two images that describe the experiences of families who have loved ones who deal with chronic mental illnesses. 

“Tsunami” describes the emotional overload and stress families feel when they hear the news that their loved one is in crisis and in need of hospitalization. Grief, guilt, stress, fear, worries about the future are only some of the emotions families go through. Coming all at once the emotions and stress threaten to overwhelm them and pull them under. 

“Sucker punch” describes what happens a few months later when things have settled down for the family. Their loved one is out of the hospital. The new meds seem to be working. They are trying to pick up the pieces of their life that was so rudely interrupted by their mental illness. Despite the fact that experience has taught the family to keep their guard up because a crisis can happen at any time, they are once again caught off guard when their loved one has a relapse. Like a boxer who has his hands up to protect his face only to be punched in his gut. The family finds itself hit with a “sucker punch” as the emotional roller coaster starts all over again. 

What hope do families and those who struggle with mental illnesses have as they walk this journey together? Where can they find comfort and strength? For me comfort and strength is found in these promises from God’s Word. 

When I feel too worn out to continue: 

Deuteronomy 33: 27 “The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” I feel God’s loving arms surround me as he carries me through yet another crisis. What a better place to be than in his arms. 

When sorrows burden my heart beyond words: 

Isaiah 53:4 “Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows…” Jesus knows exactly what I am going through even if no one else seems to. His suffering on the cross was far beyond anything anyone will ever experience. 

When fear threatens to over power me: 

Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 

Psalm 91:11, “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.” God walks beside me and my loved ones. His angels watch over us. We lean on him, pray to him, and trust in him. Jesus conquered death and lives to silence our fears, wipe away our tears, calm our troubled hearts, and bless us with his love.