Charleston School of Law continues Mental Health Awareness week today. The focus today is on forgiveness.
This event will be held at 12 noon in Room 224. Briana Suhr, a clinical mental health counseling intern with Lawyers Helping Lawyers, will address the complex process of loss and grief and how connection can support the healing process.
Forgiveness is a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. Although forgiveness doesn’t excuse or erase the act that hurt you, forgiveness can lessen its grip on you. We often think of forgiveness as letting someone else off the hook while in fact, holding onto resentment often keeps you stuck. The beauty of forgiveness is that it helps free you from the control of the person who harmed you. Forgiveness can even lead to surprising feelings of understanding, empathy, and compassion. And PEACE. Forgiveness can bring peace.
What are the benefits of forgiveness?
Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way for improved mental health and peace of mind. Forgiveness can lead to:
- Healthier relationships
- Improved mental health
- Less anxiety, stress, and hostility
- Lower blood pressure
- Fewer symptoms of depression
- A stronger immune system
- Improved heart health
- Improved self-esteem