Embracing Emotional Intelligence: A Biblical Guide for Christian Women Battling Lupus Overwhelm and Raising ADHD-Afflicted Sons
by Kisha Johnson McRae
What is Lupus?
Lupus, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a long-term disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy parts of the body, causing inflammation and damage. It can affect different organs like the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells.
The exact cause of lupus is not known, but it’s thought to be a combination of genetics, hormones, and environmental factors. Women of childbearing age, especially those from African, Asian, or Hispanic backgrounds, have a higher risk of developing lupus.
Lupus can have a range of symptoms that vary from person to person. Some common signs include feeling tired, joint pain and swelling, skin rashes, fever, chest pain, hair loss, mouth sores, and sensitivity to sunlight. These symptoms can come and go, and their intensity can also change, which makes managing lupus a complex and unpredictable process.
What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
ADHD, which stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD or ADD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects people’s ability to pay attention, control impulses, and regulate their activity levels. It is a condition that typically begins in childhood and can continue into adulthood. Children & adults diagnosed with this disorder sometimes don’t go through the complexities of being hyperactive so they are considered ADD.
In simple terms, ADHD makes it challenging for individuals to focus, stay organized, and control their impulses. They may have difficulty paying attention to tasks, completing them on time, or following through on instructions. It can also lead to restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty sitting still or staying quiet in situations where it’s expected.
ADHD is not just about being easily distracted or hyperactive; it can affect various aspects of a person’s life, including their relationships, education, and work performance. However, it’s important to note that ADHD does not mean someone is unintelligent or lazy. Many individuals with ADHD have unique strengths and talents.
There are different types of ADHD, including predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined presentation. The specific symptoms and their severity can vary from person to person. It is crucial to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional who specializes in ADHD.
Living with lupus and raising children with ADHD can be an overwhelming journey for any Women. The emotional challenges faced by these remarkable women are often underestimated and require a unique approach rooted in biblical principles. In this article, we will explore the power of emotional intelligence and how it can positively impact the lives of Christian women battling lupus overwhelm while raising sons with ADHD. Through the lens of faith, we will discover valuable insights that can empower you to navigate these challenges with grace and wisdom.
Parenting children can be such an exhausting and beautiful experience. However, imagine the uncertainty, overwhelm of you and your children future when a diagnosis such as lupus suddenly interrupts the daily functioning of your life. Life is no longer the way you knew it. Then your son is diagnosed with ADHD and you no longer can parent him the same as another parent would their child who doesn’t share this diagnosis.
With your emotions emerging out of control and the stigma of being a Christian woman and feeling ashamed of your situation and how sharing your feelings with your congregation may have you to appear weak and of little faith, so you struggle in silence without seeking help. Your emotional & mental wellbeing matters and is the catalyst of your ability to parent with a peace of mind not in daily emotional distress.
Understanding Emotional Intelligence:
Emotional intelligence refers to our ability to recognize, understand, and manage our emotions, as well as the emotions of others. As Christian women, we can draw inspiration from biblical teachings that emphasize empathy, compassion, and self-control. By cultivating emotional intelligence, we can develop healthier relationships, cope with stress, become more emotional available and support our children more effectively.
The Power of Self-Awareness:
Self-awareness is a vital aspect of emotional intelligence. By turning to Scripture, we can find guidance on self-reflection and introspection. The Psalms, for example, reveal the depth of human emotions and demonstrate the importance of acknowledging our own struggles. Through prayer, journaling, and seeking godly counsel, we can develop a deeper understanding of our emotions, triggers, and strengths.
Cultivating Empathy and Compassion:
As Christian women, we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves. Applying this principle to our relationships with our children and those around us can have a profound impact. Understanding the challenges our sons face with ADHD, and the overwhelming emotions they experience, allows us to respond with empathy and compassion. Remembering Jesus’ teachings about forgiveness and kindness equips us to guide our children through difficult emotional moments with grace and patience.
Nurturing Emotional Resilience:
Living with lupus can often lead to feelings of overwhelm, frustration, and even depression. The Bible reminds us that we can find strength in God during times of trouble. By anchoring ourselves in faith and seeking solace in prayer, we can nurture emotional resilience. Scripture assures us that God is our refuge and strength, and that we can cast our anxieties upon Him. Embracing these promises enables us to face the challenges of lupus with a renewed spirit and a steadfast heart.
Building Healthy Coping Mechanisms:
Christian women battling lupus overwhelm and raising ADHD-afflicted sons can benefit from developing healthy coping mechanisms. Engaging in activities that promote self-care, such as prayer, Bible study, exercise, and connecting with supportive communities, can significantly improve emotional well-being.
Proverbs 31 reminds us of the importance of self-care, encouraging us to rise above our challenges and care for ourselves as we care for others.
As Christian women facing the challenges of lupus overwhelm while raising sons with ADHD, embracing emotional intelligence rooted in biblical principles can be transformative. By cultivating self-awareness, empathy, compassion, and resilience, we can navigate these trials with grace and wisdom. Remember that you are not alone in this journey, and God’s love and guidance are available to you every step of the way. Embrace emotional intelligence, lean on your faith, and empower yourself to thrive as you raise your children and overcome the hurdles of lupus.
Resources:
ADDitude: ADDitude is an online magazine and community that focuses on ADHD-related topics. They provide articles, expert advice, and practical tips for managing ADHD in various aspects of life, including relationships, education, and work. Check out their website at: https://www.additudemag.com/
Lupus Foundation of America: The Lupus Foundation of America is a leading organization dedicated to supporting people living with lupus and promoting awareness and education about the disease. Their website offers a wide range of resources, including information about lupus symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and living with the condition. They also provide educational materials, webinars, and support networks. Visit their website at: https://www.lupus.org/
Kisha Johnson McRae is a contributing Author and Member of RSRWBA. Kisha is also the CEO of Beautiful Butterfly K.W.E.EN. Enterprise.