a quote on self reliance

We seem to be developing an epidemic of "counselitis" which drains spiritual strength from the Church much like the common cold drains more strength out of humanity than any other disease.

That, some may assume, is not serious. It is very serious!

On one hand, we counsel bishops to avoid abuses in welfare help. On the other hand, some bishops dole out counsel and advise without considering that the member should dove the problem himself....

It is easier then to show them how to help themselves, and more than that, how to help others. That is the greatest therapy...

We have become very anxious over the amount of counseling that we seem to need in the Church. Our members becoming dependent...

We must not set up a network of counseling services without at the same time emphasizing the principle of emotional self reliance and individual independence.

If we lose our emotional and spiritual independence, our self-reliance, we can be weakened quite as much, perhaps even more, than when we become dependent materially.

Boyd K. Packer, "Solving Emotional Problems," Ensign, May 1978