My emotions, moods, and even behaviors are difficult to predict or even manage at times, and this can make my worship and service more difficult. Is there a place for me?

Yes. Jesus Christ invites all to come unto Him. He invites all to partake of the gospel. Not only is there a place for those with mental health challenges, but there is also a need. We each have spiritual gifts, attributes, and talents to help build the kingdom of God. It is common for individuals who have felt emotional pain to have high levels of empathy and understanding. The Church needs you and wants you, and you should feel like you belong.

As a member of the First Presidency, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf taught:

“Some might say, ‘I just don’t fit in with you people in the Church.’

“If you could see into our hearts, you would probably find that you fit in better than you suppose. You might be surprised to find that we have yearnings and struggles and hopes similar to yours. Your background or upbringing might seem different from what you perceive in many Latter-day Saints, but that could be a blessing. Brothers and sisters, dear friends, we need your unique talents and perspectives. The diversity of persons and peoples all around the globe is a strength of this Church” (“Come, Join with Us,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 23).