In the case of the three denials, a piercing look was enough to remind Peter of his error. The later books of the Christian scriptures, written about the time after Jesus, give hope in that they show a more mature, confident man who has clearly learned from Jesus' encouragement and gentle setting of limits. Some contemporary Christian ministers suggest that faith can relate to individuals with psychiatric diagnoses. Once one becomes aware of a psychiatric diagnosis, it becomes one's responsibility to learn more about the condition. Through knowledge, one might be able to minimize impulsive acts that might offend or injure others.
Prayer can lead to a sense of forgiveness and freedom from shame.
Even if one feels forgiven, there is still the obligation to attempt to make amends to other people who might have been hurt by one's impulsive acts. When one is freed from shame and secrecy, it is often easier to make meaningful amends to others. Prayer or meditation can be a source of quieting and centering. Some distractible individuals may not be able to sustain a lengthy, focused prayer. However, in the Screwtape Letters , C.S. Lewis indicates that the most powerful prayer is a simple brief prayer for the grace to manage the daily challenges.