Women of F&W Series: Sofia T.

At what moment did you realize you needed healing —mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually, etc.?  

I realized that I needed healing while reading Shook Ones by Cthagod about mental health and hip hop. As he was describing symptoms of anxiety backed by a co-author therapist, my eyes were opened to see my own anxiousness and how anxious I had been for most of my adolescence into my twenties. Moments when I would have panic attacks and go to the ER without a full diagnosis other than to rest. Or going days barely eating because I felt heavy in my chest. Still it was a surprise to me. I never thought I had anxiety to the degree that required healing. But I owned up to it and began taking an intentional approach to heal.

Based on challenges or struggles you were or are facing, how has faith helped you find strength in your healing journey? 

My faith in the word of God has been my rock! Scripture teaches us to be transformed by the renewing of our mind. While seeking renewal and in therapy, I learned that with anxiety you have to recall the facts. You have to speak what you know so that your mind doesn’t wander and create 100 scenarios concerning things you don’t know. For me that meant replacing debilitating thoughts with the word of God. Not denying my feelings but bringing them to God and seeing what He has to say about my situation. I’ve always had faith in what Jesus did on the cross but personalizing His word has been a game changer for me. Salvation is only the beginning, Jesus came to bring life more abundantly.

How have wellness practices contributed to your healing journey?

I’ve found a lot of solace in reading books. Whether my Bible, non-fiction psych or fiction novels with practical lessons. Prayer and meditation has kept me when I don’t have the answers. Caring for my body by taking vitamins and working out to release physical energy. And last but never least, leaning into community to share and listen has also healed me in ways that I may have gotten to eventually, but never at the same pace as opening up to others.

Share an affirmation, scripture, or words of encouragement for the women navigating their healing journey.

“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promises as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance (a changed mind).” 2 Peter 3:9