This is Abbey's story.

Resources from Abbey’s Story:

1. “Name It to Tame It” – Dr. Dan Siegel

This phrase comes from brain-based research on how naming our emotions helps regulate them. Learn more:

• Dan Siegel’s Website
• Book: The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson

2. Scripture Reflection: 1 John 4:18

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear…”

This verse reminds us that God’s love is greater than our anxiety—and invites us to root our identity in Him.

3. Mental Health Tool: Emotional Check-In

Try this simple tool:

• Pause
• Name what you’re feeling
• Ask: “What is this emotion trying to protect or show me?”
• Invite God into that space with grace, not shame

4. Recommended Devotional:

“Anxious for Nothing” by Max Lucado - Faith-based encouragement for those navigating anxiety.

5. Crisis + Professional Support Resources:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nami.org
• Faithful Counseling (Christian therapy online): faithfulcounseling.com
• In a crisis? Text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor via the Crisis Text Line (U.S. only)

6. Book Recommendation:

The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt

A powerful exploration of the cultural shifts—especially around screen time and social media—that have shaped today’s mental health landscape. This book pairs well with Abbey’s story and offers practical insight for parents, leaders, and anyone who cares about the next generation.

Connect With Us: X: @illstartpodcast Instagram: @illstartpodcast Facebook: I’ll Start Tag us and share your thoughts using #IllStartPodcast

One of the most difficult parts of mental health struggle is feeling alone. Shame, fear, and stigma keep us isolated and reinforce the belief I am the only one who struggles with mental health. When someone shares their struggle with us, suddenly we have hope. Even when pain is present, there is something so healing about being in community. How do we build a community in the middle of our struggle?

Someone needs to start the conversation.

Most of the time we are hoping someone else will be the one to do it. What if we stopped waiting on others and told our story. What if we said, “I’ll start.” “I’ll Start” is a podcast where individuals bravely share their stories, listen with compassion, and connect through their faith and mental health experiences. Each episode of “I’ll Start” highlights a personal story of mental health challenge, endurance, and hope. At the end of each episode, you will receive mental health tools and theological truth from our Co-hosts, Morgan Arseneau and Heather Kaloupek.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak to a professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.