Mental Health in the Church
Is Mental Illness a Big Deal?
Mental health is hugely important. To some degree, we are all working through our mental health. The WHO describes mental health as “Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It is an integral component of health and well-being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in.” As christians, we can understand this as the way we relate to and see ourselves, our relationships with others, and God. For some, our ways of relating to the above things are so dysfunctional (through any number of things including: past traumas, chemical imbalances, etc.) that our mental health can be classified as a disorder.
In the United States, the prevalence of mental health is similarly striking. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that nearly one in five adults experiences some form of mental illness each year. This includes a wide range of mental illnesses, from anxiety disorders and depression to more severe illnesses like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Anxiety disorders, for instance, affect about 18% of the American population, making them one of the most common mental health issues faced by individuals today. Similarly, major depressive disorder impacts approximately 7% of adults in the U.S., often leading to significant challenges in daily functioning and overall well being.
What the Bible Says About Mental Health
The Bible calls us to arm ourselves against battles of the flesh. One of which is the battlefield of our mind. Not equipping ourselves with that can leave us open to temptation, believing false truths about ourselves, etc. All of these can result in mental health struggles like anxious thoughts, feelings of shame, and guilt. The Bible teaches us to put on the armor of God to “stand firm against the schemes of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11). This is the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit.
Another focus in the Bible that speaks on our mental health is identity. The bible has a ton of stuff about identity. “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Renewing our mind is clothing ourselves in our identity in Christ, not of patterns and habits of the world, all of which can erode our identity which is intertwined in the story of our mental health.
Overcoming Mental Struggles: Elijah, David, and Job
Elijah
Elijah, initially downhearted and wishing for death, was provided with rest, food, and encouragement by God. After fleeing from Queen Jezebel, who sought his life, Elijah reached a point of utter despair, feeling isolated and believing he was the last faithful prophet. However, God’s intervention came through an angel providing nourishment and rest, followed by a powerful encounter on Mount Horeb where God spoke to him in a gentle whisper. Through this care and the reassurance of divine presence, Elijah regained his strength and sense of purpose, allowing him to continue his prophetic mission with renewed vigor and hope.
King David
King David's journey through mental anguish is documented poignantly in the Psalms, where he openly disclosed his sorrow and despair. Throughout his life, David faced numerous adversities, including King Saul’s relentless pursuit, the betrayal by his own son Absalom, and the weight of his own sins. Despite these profound emotions, David consistently sought solace in his relationship with God. By turning his turmoil into prayer and worship, David found comfort and strength. His psalms are filled with raw emotion, oscillating between anguish and hope, reflecting a deep trust in God’s unwavering love and mercy. This showcases the therapeutic power of faith and spiritual expression, providing a blueprint for others to navigate their own emotional struggles.
Job
Job’s narrative is one of unwavering resilience. Despite experiencing intense suffering and questioning the purpose of his tribulations, Job never abandoned his faith in God. His multi-faceted ordeal included the loss of his children, his wealth, and his health, leading him to wrestle with profound questions about justice, suffering, and divine providence. Throughout his dialogues with friends, Job maintained his integrity, refusing to curse God despite the intense pressure to do so. His steadfast belief, coupled with the support of his friends and eventual divine revelation, led to his restoration and healing. God eventually answered Job out of a whirlwind, restoring his fortunes and blessing him abundantly. Job's triumphant perseverance illustrates that even in the worst circumstances, faith and trust in our Lord can pave the way to recovery and renewal, offering a testimony to the sustaining power of faith in the face of insurmountable trials.
What to Do if You Struggle With Mental Illness in the Church
Connect with a Trusted Person
Share your struggles with someone you trust in the church, such as a pastor, mentor, or close friend. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up."
This passage emphasizes the importance of companionship and support in our lives. As believers, we are called to bear one another's burdens, as Galatians 6:2 tells us, "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." By sharing our struggles, we allow others to come alongside us, offering encouragement, prayer, and practical help. Don't hesitate to open up to those who care for you; together, we can navigate life's challenges with faith and fellowship.
Mental Health Professionals
While faith is vital in our lives, consulting a mental health professional is crucial for comprehensive well-being. A mental health professional is equipped to provide therapies and interventions that can significantly complement your spiritual practices. By seeking mental health treatment from mental health professionals, you can address a wide array of emotional and psychological challenges, ensuring a balanced and holistic approach to maintaining your mental health. Combining spiritual guidance with professional mental health treatment can lead to more effective and sustainable outcomes for overall wellness. If your struggle is severe, your church can be a helpful in pointing you toward more appropriate forms of support.
Immerse in Scripture
Regularly reading and meditating on the Bible can offer profound comfort and strength, serving as a foundation for both spiritual and emotional well-being. The scriptures are filled with divine wisdom and promises that can uplift and encourage us in times of need. For instance, Psalm 34:18 states, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." This verse reassures us of God's unwavering presence and compassion, particularly during our most challenging moments.
Passages like Isaiah 41:10, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand," highlight the divine strength and support that God provides. This divine assurance is not just a source of comfort but also a testament to His everlasting love and care for His people.
In John 14:27, Jesus offers peace to His disciples, saying, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." This peace is a divine gift that transcends worldly understanding and provides solace in times of turmoil.
The divine importance of these scriptures lies in their ability to connect us with God's promises and His eternal presence. They remind us that we are never alone and that, through faith and trust in God, we can find the strength to overcome any adversity. As mentioned above, the bible is the foundational truth for identity, purpose, and belonging, all questions that understanding the truth about will positively impact our mental health
Engage in Prayer and Worship
Spending time in prayer and worship can profoundly lift your spirits and refocus your mind, offering solace in times of trouble. In a world where mental illness exists and affects millions, turning to prayer can provide a sense of peace and stability amidst the chaos. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
This scripture highlights the importance of laying our burdens before the Lord, reminding us that through heartfelt prayer and worship, we can find a divine calm that shields us from anxiety and worry. Isaiah 26:3 also reassures us, "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you." In moments of mental distress, anchoring oneself in prayer and worship can help cultivate a steadfast mind, one that is resilient and focused on God's promises.
Additionally, Matthew 11:28-30 offers comfort, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." This invitation to find rest in the Lord through prayer and worship underscores the therapeutic nature of building a relationship with God, especially in the face of mental illness.
Get Involved in Community Activities
Being part of church activities and groups can provide a profound sense of belonging and purpose, significantly aiding in your emotional well-being. For individuals struggling with serious mental illness or those who are mentally ill, the support and community found within a church can be a crucial lifeline. Participating in church activities offers opportunities for fellowship, spiritual growth, and service, all of which contribute to a person's overall mental health. This works because we learn how to relate and work with others.
Scripture reinforces the importance of community and mutual support. In Hebrews 10:24-25, it says, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This passage highlights the significance of gathering together and encouraging each other, which can be especially uplifting for those dealing with mental health challenges.
Practice Self-Care
Ensure you are taking care of your physical health by eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Your body and mind are interconnected, and physical well-being can significantly impact mental health. As the Bible says in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." By nourishing our bodies, we honor God and promote mental health.
Taking care of your physical health is not just about avoiding illness; it's also about preventing a mental disorder. Proverbs 17:22 reminds us, "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Physical well-being plays a crucial role in maintaining a cheerful heart and a sound mind. Engaging in regular physical activity, consuming nutritious foods, and ensuring adequate rest are all essential practices that help prevent mental disorders and promote a balanced, healthy life.
Educate Yourself and Others
Learning about mental health can dispel myths and build understanding. By educating ourselves, we can better support one another in times of need when we understand mental illness. Sharing this knowledge helps support an environment within the church, where compassion and empathy can thrive. By embracing this mission, we live out the teachings of 1 Thessalonians 5:11, which urges us to "encourage one another and build each other up." Let us work together to create a community where every individual's mental well-being is valued and cared for.
What Needs to Be Done in the Church for Mental Health
To create a church environment that is welcoming and supportive for those dealing with a mental health condition, several key actions and practices can be implemented. Here is a list of what needs to be done:
Provide Education and Training
Educate church leaders and members about mental health issues to dispel myths, build understanding, and create a supportive community. Offer comprehensive training sessions on recognizing signs of severe mental illness and provide guidance on how to respond compassionately and effectively. Where can you find these training sessions? L.E.S.S training (Listen, Explore, Share, Support) through Share the Struggle has what you need.
Support an Inclusive Environment
Make everyone feel welcomed and valued, regardless of their mental health status. It's important to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and supported. Encourage open discussions about mental health to normalize these conversations within the church community. With an atmosphere of understanding and acceptance, we can help break down the stigma surrounding mental health and ensure that everyone feels comfortable seeking the support they need.
Encourage Self-Care
Promote the importance of physical health, proper nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, highlighting their impact on mental well-being, as guided by Scripture. For individuals coping with mental illness, maintaining physical health through these means can be particularly challenging but immensely beneficial. Proper nutrition provides the body with vital nutrients that support brain function and emotional stability. Regular exercise has been shown to release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Adequate sleep is crucial as it allows the brain to rest and recuperate, improving cognitive function and emotional resilience. However, many people struggling with mental health issues may turn to substance abuse as a coping mechanism, which can further disrupt their physical and mental health.This is why encouraging self-care for people with mental illnesses is crucial to prevent them from turning to substance abuse.
Create Support Groups
Mental Health Discipleship groups, like those created by STS, can be a great resource for anyone wanting to explore their mental health journey to better relate to themselves, God, and others. Participants can benefit from shared understanding, practical advice, and emotional encouragement, ultimately helping to reduce isolation and improve overall well-being. It is important to have a leader or mental health professional in these support groups to help you understand your mental health and how to work and improve towards a positive mental health.
Offer Specific Prayers
Include specific prayers for those dealing with severe mental illness during church services. By doing so, we can bring attention to the struggles faced by people with mental health challenges and offer them spiritual support. Encourage members to consistently pray for the mental well-being of others in a way that one would come to feel known and loved and God would work through that struggle for the purpose of redeeming stories. This can create a sense of communal support and care, reminding everyone that they are not alone in their struggles.
Access to Mental Health Professionals
Collaborate with mental health professionals to offer comprehensive access to counseling and therapy services. Ensure that there are ample resources available for individuals seeking professional mental health support. Create programs and initiatives to promote mental well-being and raise awareness about the importance of mental health care and mental illnesses.
Organize Workshops and Seminars
Host workshops and seminars that address mental health issues, offering both practical advice and spiritual guidance. Invite mental health experts to speak, providing valuable insights and create a supportive community environment. These events can help attendees better understand their mental health, learn coping strategies, and connect with others who share similar experiences. By creating a safe space for open discussion, we can work together to break the stigma surrounding mental health and promote overall well-being.
Highlight Stories of Overcoming
Share testimonies and stories of individuals who have overcome mental health challenges, providing a beacon of hope and encouragement for others. By addressing mental health issues openly, we can inspire those struggling to seek help and support, nurturing a community where everyone feels understood and valued. Highlighting these personal journeys shows the importance of addressing mental health illnessses and reminds us that recovery is possible.
Frequently Asked Mental Health in the Church Questions
What is the Church's View on Mental Health?
The church's charge is to equip the body of Christ to help us become like Jesus, and to share that good news with others. Part of helping us become like Jesus is understanding our stories, understanding where we stumble in relation to our thought life, and then providing discipleship support where we can come to fully know our identity in Christ to live a life modeled after Him.
How Do You Address Mental Health in the Church?
Addressing any mental health conditions in the church starts with the shared desire to all live into the fullness of life Christ has in store for us. It’s recognizing that our resilience to all sorts of mental health struggles impacts our ability to be known and loved in our mess and identify and God’s beloved. Knowing this truth the church's role is to find ways, and for the community of believers to empower it, to help people understand their identity in Christ. Mental health discipleship content (like small group courses) can be a great place to meet this need as it provides the psychoeducation along with the relational experiences to feel heard and known in our struggles, while walking with others through the journey.
How Does Going to Church Affect Mental Health?
We are meant to live in a community. Not in isolation. Isolating ourselves can trap us in truths and ways of relating to others, self, and God that are not authentic to the scripture, and can ultimately cause us to move backwards in our journey of mental health. Being a part of a church community, or social relationships that provide authentic connection, is central to understanding our story and identity, and really a prerequisite for being mentally healthy.
Conclusion
Addressing mental health within the church is not only necessary but vital for the overall well-being of the congregation. By creating programs and initiatives, organizing workshops and seminars, and sharing stories of overcoming, we create a supportive community that understands and values mental health. The church’s open stance and compassionate approach, rooted in Scripture, provide both spiritual and practical support to those facing mental health challenges. Together, as a faith-based community, we have the power to break the stigma surrounding mental health and offer hope to those in need. Let us continue to be a sanctuary of love, understanding, and healing, reflecting God's compassion and care for every individual’s mind, body, and spirit.