Our Cultural Moment

Course Cut-OutFreedom From Anxiety
Written By Austin Cavaliere

If you need help seeing Jesus in the middle of your struggle, or just feel like you are stuck, ready to move into growth and healing, connect with a Christian coach.

Excerpt: Root Cause: Our Cultural Moment - Anxiety Session 4

Course: Freedom From Anxiety

Speakers: Rebekah Lyons, Curtis Zachery, Benji Horning

Navigating the Noise: Anxiety, Culture, and the Quest for Rest

We live in a culture of constant motion, a relentless drive to produce and build, where even rest feels like failure. This 'hurry sickness' permeates our lives, leaving us anxious and exhausted. Gen Z, the first generation raised in social media ubiquity, experiences this acutely. They are everywhere online but nowhere truly present, creating a paradox of hyper-connectivity and deep isolation.

The Machine Age Mentality

Our bodies are designed for circadian rhythms – sunrise and sunset. But we’ve replaced these natural cues with devices that demand constant activity, mirroring the industrial era’s 24/7 machine mentality. Sleep, a crucial restorative process, is sacrificed for endless screen time, disrupting our natural melatonin production and leaving us perpetually tired.

The Illusion of Control

This relentless pace creates a sense of being out of control, fueling anxiety. We feel pressured to keep up, fearing we’ll fall behind. Yet, true well-being requires us to disconnect, to find embodied experiences of friendship and vulnerability.

The Cultural Climate of Anxiety

Our culture is defined by tension and contention, from racial and political divides to everyday social interactions. We are tension-averse, seeking to eradicate discomfort rather than engage with it. This avoidance only amplifies anxiety.

The Postmodern Burden

We’ve shifted from a modern era of authority to a postmodern era of authenticity, placing the burden of truth and meaning squarely on the individual. This self-reliance, compounded by social media pressures, creates immense personal pressure.

Intentional Disconnection and Compassionate Engagement

To counteract this, we must intentionally pursue rest. This means putting down our phones, engaging in real-life connection, and listening to perspectives different from our own. Compassionate engagement with tension, rather than avoidance, can lessen anxiety and foster understanding.

Reclaiming Human Connection and Wholeness

We need to critically examine the culture that surrounds us. Has it delivered on its promise of freedom and peace? Often, the answer is no. We must seek trustworthy guidance – therapists, pastors, or content that prioritizes human connection and wholeness.

Conclusion: Reclaiming Our Humanity in a Restless World

Anxiety is a symptom of a culture that prioritizes constant motion over human well-being. By intentionally disconnecting, embracing vulnerability, and engaging compassionately with tension, we can reclaim our humanity and find true rest in a restless world.

 

If you like the content, you can continue in a few different ways…

  • 1) See the outline below and check out other sections from the FFP course.

  • 2) Take the full small group course to your church community! The first course your church runs is free! Reach out to us here to learn how.

  • 3) Connect with a Share The Struggle Coach for one-on-one support. Let’s face it, some of us have tried kicking this thing, and we’ve had no luck. It’s time to start looking toward forms of support that can help us see and feel the beautiful life God has in store for us.

 

Freedom From Anxiety

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Freedom From Anxiety 〰️

Understanding the Roots of Anxiety

Session 1

Session 2

Session 3

Session 4

Session 5

Healing Through Relationships

Session 6

Session 7

Session 8

 

Share The Struggle Courses

Share the Struggle Courses are topical expert led video courses to help you understand life’s greatest struggles and provide you with tools for navigating them. Moreover, STS courses create a space for you to connect with others struggling with similar things, experience belonging, and encounter God’s nearness in a place of wilderness in your life (pain, confusion, healing journey). Want to start a group at your church? Reach out to us here to learn how.

 

What Share The Struggle Believes

Here at Share The Struggle we believe Jesus is present with us in the middle of our pain and mess, and it is in that place that we often experience and encounter Jesus most deeply.

We understand the unique challenges faced by Christians dealing with mental health. Our mission is to bridge the gap between faith and mental health support, providing a platform where individuals can find resources, coaching support and guidance, all tailored to their spiritual life and emotional needs.

We invite you to explore our resources, share your journey, and find the support you need to overcome the struggles you face.

Austin Cavaliere
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