Daniel L. Sonnenberg

Mental health challenges are present in every congregation, but many churches still feel uncertain about how to respond. This series is designed to help pastors, leaders, and members learn how to care well for people who are suffering—to think biblically, speak carefully, and act wisely. The aim is not to turn the church into a clinic, but to make the church a safer, wiser, and more compassionate place for people who are weary, anxious, or depressed, and for the people who love them.

This series is titled, “Helping People Who Are Hurting: A 13-Part Series on Mental Health Care in the Church”

Part 1 of 13. When People Feel Ashamed About Their Mental Struggles: Creating a Safe Place in the Church

Part 2 of 13. When Faith and Struggle Meet: How Christian Faith Can Help People Who Are Suffering Inside

Part 3 of 13. Why Hidden Pain Matters in the Church: Learning to Care for People Bearing Heavy Burdens

Part 4 of 13. Caring Well: The Difference Between Pastoral Care and Clinical Care

Part 5 of 13. When a Church Faces a Mental Health Crisis: Staying Calm, Staying Present, and Helping the Person Who Is in Danger

Part 6 of 13. When Someone Talks About Suicide, We Must Respond with Care, Not Judgment 

Part 7 of 13. Responding to Psychosis with Clarity and Compassion: Staying Present When Someone Is in Crisis

Part 8 of 13. Responding to Trauma and Abuse with Presence and Care

Part 9 of 13. When Addiction and Mental Struggle Meet: Helping Our Church Care for the Person, Not Just the Problem

Part 10 of 13. A Church Policy That Makes Compassion Easier to Practice

Part 11 of 13. Supporting Family Caregivers: Caring for the Ones Who Hold Everything Together

Part 12 of 13. Neurodivergence in the Church: Welcoming People Who Are Wired Differently

Part 13 of 13. Strength for the Weary: How the Word and Prayer Help Us Carry the Load

This website is educational and informational, not a substitute for emergency or professional care.

You do not have to face a crisis alone. If you or someone you know may be in immediate danger or may act on suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 in the United States to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If emergency help is needed immediately, call 911.

*More articles on Mental Health Care in the Church on this website*

Categories: Articles, Mental Health in the Church

Tags: Mental Health in the Church