7 Powerful Prayers for Your Child’s Mental Health

As parents, we want nothing more than to see our children happy, healthy, and thriving. But sometimes, our children, teens, and adult children face challenges that can be difficult for us to understand. As a mom, you can pray powerful prayers for your child’s mental health.

When I was growing up we didn’t have the same pressures and problems my children and grandchildren face. The internet had not been invented and social media wasn’t even a thing.

It seems like today, no matter where we turn we see someone with a cell phone in their hand. Although they are great to have in an emergency, constant access to chaos can cause stress in our lives.

Mental health issues in teens and young adults are more common than we might think, and they can have a profound impact on their development and overall well-being.  According to the World Health Organization

• One in seven 10-19-year-olds experience a mental health disorder
• Depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders are among the leading causes of illness and disability among teens
• Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29 year-olds
• The consequences of failing to address adolescent mental health conditions extend to adulthood, impairing both physical and mental health and limiting opportunities to lead fulfilling lives as adults.
  

When our children, regardless of their age, are facing mental health challenges we can turn to the power of prayer for comfort, guidance, and healing. God’s Word is the best place to turn to for any problem or concern.

Speaking Bible verses over our children is something we can do any time of the day or night. And we know when we pray scripture over our children we are praying according to God’s will.

As we read scripture we find time after time, people turning to prayer for peace and comfort when afraid, depressed, or anxious. When we lift our voices to the Lord, we invite His presence into our lives and open ourselves to the transformative power of His love and grace.

Through prayer, we can find peace in turmoil, courage in the face of fear, and hope in the darkest of moments. Through prayer, we can call out for God’s help in our times of trouble.

The Importance of Prayer for Our Children’s Mental Health

The Power of Prayer in Difficult Times

When our children or grandchildren are struggling with mental health challenges, it can feel like a heavy burden weighing on our hearts. When we pray, we invite God’s unfailing love and peace into our lives and those of our children in their time of need.

Creating a safe place for our kids to come and talk about their problems gives us a better understanding of how to pray. We can choose specific Bible verses to pray over our children when we understand what they are thinking and feeling.

The Role of Faith and Spirituality in Mental Wellness

Exercising our faith in God, reading His Word, and prayer can play a big part in improving our mental health. When we help our kids by teaching them about God, His love, and His Word we’re giving them tools to find meaning and feel connected to the world around them.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8

This can be a huge help when life gets tough. Praying together can deepen their bond with God and give them a sense of hope that carries them through hard times. The Bible has a lot to say about our mental health so we need to help our children find help and hope in scripture to improve their mental health.

We need to start praying for our children before they are born. We pray our children’s hearts will be turned toward the Lord. We pray they will love Him with all their hearts, minds, and strength and trust Him in all things. When they do, they will be better able to feel God’s presence with them.

Understanding Mental Health Issues in Children and Teens

Common Mental Health Struggles in Children and Teens

Just like adults, children, and teenagers can experience a wide range of mental health issues. Some of the most common struggles include anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, and bipolar disorder. It’s important to remember that these conditions are not a reflection of poor parenting or a lack of love and support.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental health issues in children can be challenging, but it’s important to be aware of any changes in your teen.

Look out for changes in behavior, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, social withdrawal, changes in sleep or appetite patterns, and physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches. If you notice any concerning changes, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

The Impact of Mental Health on a Child’s Development

Untreated mental health issues can have a profound impact on a child’s development. They can affect their ability to learn, form healthy relationships, and develop essential life skills. Early intervention and support are important to help children overcome these challenges and reach their full potential.

Powerful Prayers for a Child’s Mental Health

Prayers for Fear

“Dear Lord, I lift up my child to You, for they are struggling with fear. Please calm their anxious heart and remind them that You are always by their side. I know you have not given them this spirit of fear, because you give us a sound mind. Please help them to keep their thoughts focused on you and fill them with Your perfect peace that surpasses all understanding. In the powerful name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.”

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” Isaiah 26:3

Prayers for Depression

“Heavenly Father, my child’s heart is heavy with sadness and despair. Please shine Your light into their darkness and remind them of Your unfailing love. I pray they will be aware of Your love and presence with them today. Please give them the strength to keep going. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”

“When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:17-18

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

Prayers for Anxiety

“Lord Jesus, my child’s mind is consumed with worry and fear. They are so anxious about their circumstances right now. Please grant them Your peace that passes all understanding. Help them to trust in Your perfect plan and to cast all their cares upon You. In Your mighty name, I pray. Amen.”

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7

Prayers for Sadness

“God of all comfort, my child’s heart is broken, and they are overwhelmed with sadness. Please wrap them in Your loving arms and remind them that You are their source of joy and hope. Help them to believe You know what’s going on in their life and You hear their prayers. Heal their hurting heart and fill them with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18

“The eyes of the LORD watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers.” 1 Peter 3:12

Prayers for Behavioral Issues and ADHD

“Lord of peace, my child struggles with behavioral issues and difficulty focusing. Please grant them the self-control and patience they need. Help them to find calm in the chaos and to embrace the unique way You have created them. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”

So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 1 Peter 1:13

Prayers for Autism Spectrum Disorder

“Dear God, my child’s mind works in beautiful and unique ways. Please help them to walk confidently through the challenges they face and to embrace their gifts. Surround them with understanding and acceptance, and grant them the support they need to thrive. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. -Psalm 139: 13-14

Prayers for Bipolar Disorder

“Heavenly Father, my child’s emotions are like a rollercoaster, and they struggle with bipolar disorder. Please bring stability and balance to their life. Grant them the wisdom to turn to You for their strength to manage their condition, and surround them with Your peace and love. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Incorporating Prayer into Your Child’s Daily Life

Creating a Routine for Prayer

Establishing a routine for prayer can be a powerful way to incorporate it into your child’s daily life. Set aside a specific time each day, whether it’s in the morning, before bedtime, or during a family mealtime, to come together and lift your voices to the Lord. This consistency can help your child develop a habit of turning to prayer in both good times and challenging moments.

Involving Your Child in Prayer

Encourage your child to actively participate in prayer by allowing them to share their own thoughts and concerns with God. You can also invite them to take turns leading the prayer or just reciting verses that help them. This involvement can help them develop a deeper connection with prayer and a stronger relationship with the Lord.

Using Prayer as a Coping Mechanism

In addition to scheduled prayer times, teach your child to turn to prayer as a coping mechanism during times of stress, anxiety, or emotional turmoil. Encourage them to pause and lift their worries to God whenever they feel overwhelmed or troubled. This practice can provide them with a sense of peace and reassurance, knowing that they are never alone in their struggles.

Setting the Example

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Do as I say, not as I do.” Well, in this case, it is so important for your children/teens/grandchildren to actually see and hear you pray in times of difficulty, stress, or sadness. We can talk to our kids all day about the importance of prayer and how it will help them but if we don’t do it, why should they believe us?

Revelation 12:11 says, “And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony.” Our family needs to hear our testimony of how God answered our prayers and defeated the enemy in our own lives to believe He will do it in theirs.

If you haven’t been praying or talking to your kids about the power of prayer in your own life, I strongly encourage you to start. It is never too late and I promise, when you ask God to give you opportunities to share His love and power with your family, He will!

Seeking Professional Help and Support

The Role of Mental Health Professionals

While prayer can be a powerful source of strength and comfort, it’s important to recognize that professional help is often necessary when dealing with mental health issues. Mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, have the expertise and training to provide effective treatment and support for your child’s specific needs.

A word of caution here. You must check out the mental health professional BEFORE taking your child to see them. Ask about their core values, beliefs, treatment used, and anything else you can think of before letting someone counsel your child.

As a Christian mom or grandmother, you don’t want to go to someone for help only to find they are leading your child in a different direction away from God.

Support Groups and Resources for Families

In addition to professional help, there are numerous support groups and resources available for families dealing with mental health challenges. Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer valuable information, support networks, and advocacy efforts to help families navigate these difficult situations.

Combining Prayer with Professional Treatment

Prayer and professional treatment can work hand in hand to support your child’s mental health. Focus on the Family has some great resources for anyone dealing with mental illness. While seeking professional help, continue to lift your child up in prayer and encourage them to do the same. This combination can provide a holistic approach, addressing both the physical and spiritual aspects of their well-being.

It’s important to remember that we are not alone in this fight for our child’s mental health. Prayer is a powerful tool that can provide us with strength, comfort, and guidance during these difficult times. By incorporating prayer into our daily lives and teaching our children to turn to the Lord in times of need, we encourage our children to have a deeper connection with God and a stronger sense of hope.

Seeking professional help and support from mental health professionals, support groups, and other resources is also helpful in providing our children with the comprehensive care they need to thrive. God put people in these positions to help others, so don’t feel like you have failed as a mom or grandmother when seeking help.

We know that our Heavenly Father is always with us, listening to our prayers and surrounding us with His love and grace. With faith, perseverance, and a willingness to seek help, we can support our children’s mental health and help them through even the most challenging of times.

FAQs

Can prayer alone cure mental health issues in children?

While prayer can be a powerful source of strength and comfort, it’s important to understand that it should not replace professional treatment for serious mental health issues. Of course, we all feel “down” from time to time and may not need professional help. Prayer can be a valuable complement to professional care, but it is not a substitute for the expertise and guidance of mental health professionals.

How can I encourage my child to pray more?

Encouraging your child to pray more can be achieved through leading by example and making prayer a regular part of your family’s routine. Involve your child in the prayer process by allowing them to share their thoughts and concerns with God, and consider creating a dedicated prayer space or time that feels special and meaningful to them.

What if my child doesn’t believe in God or prayer?

If your child doesn’t believe in God or prayer, it is heartbreaking. However, we know this is the work of the enemy trying to keep them from trusting in Jesus. Focus on providing them with love, support, and understanding, and seek professional help to address their mental health needs. Above all, do not give up praying for your child, no matter their age, to come to know the saving grace of Jesus. We know that nothing is too hard for God and with Him all things are possible.

Don’t be discouraged, momma. God knows your heart and your fears, but even more importantly: HE KNOWS YOUR CHILD! God knows best how to reach them and how to help them. No one is too far gone that His hand cannot reach them nor His love rescue them.

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