Hi, E.M. —

Thanks for the question.

The Catechism tells us:

So, yes, he does try to destroy our souls. He wants us to be his associates in revolting against God.

• How does he do it?

By planting thoughts in our head that are totally against Christian values; remember we are talking about an invisible realm of real creatures. His demonic hope is that the thoughts he places in our head will move on into sinful actions that effect others.

Important: Because of your medical situation, you have to approach your issue in a balanced manner. Depression can sometimes make things appear worse than they really are.

None of us at AskACatholic are councilors, but it appears you are blessed to be under the care of a doctor. The best balance is to listen to what your doctor says and take what he prescribes while praying the Rosary.

Pray the Rosary for yourself and your doctor. This will help you, and help him [your doctor], help you better.

The Rosary is a very powerful weapon that has a high stopping power in CQSC (Close Quarters Spiritual Combat) with the demonic. I call it my M-16.

I would personally recommend buying a Brown Scapular as well:

• www.FreeBrownScapular.com — Free and low-cost Scapulars
• Third Order of Penance of St. Dominic — Sacramental Request
• Rose Scapular - High-end quality Scapulars

You said:
I am sure God does not want me to be so troubled and obsessed.

I agree. Also remember, that the Lord never allows any thing to happen to us that we can't, through His Grace, bear ourselves. He is always with us, through our trails and better times.

Also, He never allows anything bad to happen to us without pulling out a greater good in the future. Thoughts of despair come from the devil. Thoughts of hope come from God.

This web page from my Christian Basics page should address most of your questions about the soul.

• The Life of the Soul — "The Grace of Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ."

You said:

• Is your mind and your thoughts part of your soul?

Yes!

Hope this helps,

Mike