Suffering can make us more resilient, better able to endure hardships. Just as a muscle, in order to build up, must endure some pain, so our emotions must endure pain in order to strengthen.

What are the effects of suffering?

First, suffering includes psychological distress, such as depression and anxiety, along with feelings of lack of control that reflect the individual's appraisal of his or her condition. Second, physical symptoms, such as pain, nausea, and difficulty in breathing, are a key feature of suffering.

Does suffering have a purpose?

Let's be very clear : there is no divine purpose in suffering whatsoever. The idea of a God who sees some use in people being in physical pain, or traumatised emotionally, or having their lives wrecked by natural diasters or fellow human beings is warped theology.