The Christian Psychologist: Mental Health for 21st Century Christ Followers

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ReferencesCambridge Dictionary. (n.d.). Emptiness. https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/emptinessD’Agostino, A., Pepi, R., Monti, M. R., & Starcevic, V. (2020). The feeling of emptiness: A review of a complex subjective experience. Harvard Review of Psychiatry, 28(5), 287-295.Hudson, C. C., Ferguson, I., Fan, K., Björgvinsson, T., & Beard, C. (2024). A general inductive approach to characterize transdiagnostic experiences of emptiness. Journal of Clinical Psychology.Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. InterVarsity Press.Konjusha, A., Hopwood, C. J., Price, A. L., Masuhr, O., & Zimmermann, J. (2021). Investigating the transdiagnostic value of subjective emptiness. Journal of Personality Disorders, 35(5), 788-800.Main, J. (2006). Word into silence: A manual for Christian meditation. The World Community for Christian Meditation.Martin, J. A., & Levy, K. N. (2022). Chronic feelings of emptiness in a large undergraduate sample: Starting to fill the void. Personality and Mental Health, 16(3), 190-203.Miller, C. E., Townsend, M. L., Day, N. J., & Grenyer, B. F. (2020). Measuring the shadows: A systematic review of chronic emptiness in borderline personality disorder. PLoS One, 15(7), e0233970.Morton, J., Snowdon, S., Gopold, M., & Guymer, E. (2012). Acceptance and commitment therapy group treatment for symptoms of borderline personality disorder: A public sector pilot study. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 19(4), 527-544.Wax, T. (2012). The meaning of “Maranatha.” https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/trevin-wax/the-meaning-of-maranatha/

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This discussion highlights the powerful role attentional control plays in mental health. By directing focus towards meaningful aspects of life, individuals can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Personal stories illustrate how maintaining focused attention deepens one's connection with spiritual practices like contemplation and centering prayer. The impact of mindfulness techniques is also emphasized, showcasing their potential to enhance both psychological well-being and spiritual growth.