Mental health issues require a response that recognizes the specific challenges associated with them. Faith communities are often the first place people experiencing mental health issues turn for help. A study done by Lifeway Ministries surveyed protestant pastors, protestants diagnosed with acute mental illness and protestant family members of those diagnosed with acute mental illness. Some key conclusions of the survey found the following:

• Few churches have plans to assist families affected by mental illness

• Few churches are staffed with a counselor skilled in mental illness

• There is a lack of training for leaders on how to recognize mental illness

• There is a need for churches to communicate to congregations about local mental health resources rather than stigma and a culture of silence that leads to shame

These findings show some of the deficits that can not only be seen in protestant churches, but in churches and faith communities of every denomination. The Church’s response has the potential to positively or negatively impact the course of a person’s mental health journey; therefore, it’s extremely important for churches to be ready and equipped to deal with this specific challenge. 

Unsure where to start? Let us help!  Novel is here to make the load a little lighter. Novel currently provides services to help you decide what solutions would be best based on the individual needs of your faith community. Vision is an essential part of tackling any issue. Let us help you create a solid plan you can execute confidently. We currently offer education, training and personalized plans. See our services page for more details.

We’ve also provided resources below with tips and information on how you can better help your congregants deal with mental health issues.