Mental Health and the Church: Moving Beyond Stigma
In recent years, the stigma around mental health has gained in popularity in the public eye. However, within the field of mental health, people have considered Christianity and mental health treatment as two separate entities, with no relationship between them.
This stigma can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need due to feelings of shame. In times of emotional distress, individuals turn to the guidance of their church. When they do not feel the support from their spiritual leaders, it can lead to dire consequences.
Understanding the Stigma
Why is mental health such a challenging topic of conversation for Christians? Although there is no single reason, it often stems from a lack of understanding and misconceptions about mental illness. What are these myths?
1. A Sign of Weakness
Instead of being recognized as legitimate psychiatric conditions, depression, anxiety, and other disorders may be seen as signs of weak faith, personal flaws, or a lack of self-discipline.
2. Surrender Your Illness to God
Some Christian churches believe that it's possible to pray away mental health conditions. While God does heal, Doctors, Psychiatrists, and Therapists are given wisdom to help treat your symptoms here on earth. Praying for healing is good. Using wisdom and allowing someone to treat you while you pray is even better.
3. Testing Your Faith
Some Christians believe that suffering from mental health issues is a result of God testing their faith. They may feel they have to prove themselves to be worthy disciples.
4. Punishment for Sins
Some people may experience rejection from churches or their church community if they confess they are dealing with a mental illness. This is because some extreme or fundamentalist churches falsely believe that illness and mental illness is a result of sin, and will often push a person to repent instead of seeking treatment.
5. Disappointment to God
Everyone within the Christian community experiences sorrow, grief, and sadness. As a devoted follower, you may struggle with feeling like a disappointment in the eyes of God. However, this does not make you a bad Christian or a disappointment.
How to Move Beyond the Stigma
Churches can be a wonderful, compassionate, and supportive environment for all of their congregation. It starts with the faith leaders. By openly discussing mental health, they can provide more accurate and realistic education around it. By incorporating these conversations into sermons and Bible studies, the myths can finally be broken down, and dialogue can be encouraged.
Resource Accessibility
As a church, it's important to provide support and resources to individuals who are struggling. First and foremost, start by listening. By actively listening and asking questions, you can understand the root of the issue and know how to help. It's important to seek efficient training and education to provide assistance to others. Partner with outside agencies or groups to learn more.
Promoting a Holistic View of Health
The church is amazing at promoting spiritual well-being, but it's important for them to also adopt a holistic view that also includes mental and physical health. On top of prayer, encourage congregates to engage in self-care activities such as proper nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness. This will reduce the stigma and support an overall sense of well-being.
Testimonies
Personal stories and testimonies from others within the church can be a powerful way to reduce the stigma. Encouraging members to share their experiences and have open discussions about their mental health journey can normalize these feelings.
Spiritual and Professional Support
The church can provide spiritual support and guidance through prayer, pastoral counseling, and community involvement. By utilizing outside resources, the church can also provide individuals with a way to seek help from a mental health professional. Remind members that they are not alone, and through the power of love, prayer, and support, the church can help individuals overcome their battle against mental health.
If you are looking to move past your battle with mental health issues, please reach out to us today and schedule a consultation for Christian therapy. We're here to help!
