Self-Destructive Behavior -- Now What?

What do you do if you suspect that someone has self-destructive behavior? The first step is to pray, and continually ask God to give you wisdom in handling the situation. Don’t condemn her, but encourage her. She needs to know that you love her, no matter what she is doing. Use Jesus as an example. He never condemned. In fact John 3:17 states “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.”.

Ways that you can help:

Offer to search for outside help. Finding a great Christian counselor to guide the healing process is important. Just remember, Jesus is the answer to our problems, not a counselor. Make sure to find a counselor that will address the whole person - spirit, soul, and body.
Many times the process of overcoming self-destructive behavior involves help from several professional staff like a medical doctor.

It is important for the whole family to seek help together for whatever situations that they are facing.

Remember, the goal is for a heart change, not simply good behavior. You want her to be free, accepting and loving herself the way the way God created her and rather than living under self-imposed rules and regulations.

It is very important that as parents, you:

Are involved in your child’s life
Recognize that your child’s behavior is not the root problem.
Be careful that you act quickly and decisively yet not rush in and take control
Remember that balance is the key in handling the situation. If this balance is reached quickly and help is arranged, the chances of healing and lessening the damage are greatly increased

Abundant Life Ranch has several programs designed to help you and the one you love.