Author Archives
-
Finding Strength for the Weary Through Word and Sacrament: Mental Health in the Church (Part 13 of 13)
The ordinary practices of the church – preaching, prayer, fellowship, the sacraments, and pastoral presence – can be a source of real stability, hope, and belonging for people who are struggling.
-
Supporting Family Caregivers: Caring for the Ones Who Hold Everything Together (Mental Health in the Church Part 10 of 13)
Family caregivers often carry the heaviest emotional load in a mental health struggle, yet they are easy to overlook. A church that cares well for the person in crisis should also care for the spouse, parent, sibling, or child who is trying to hold everything together.
-
Establishing a Clear Policy for Care: Mental Health in the Church (Part 9 of 12)
A church policy for mental health care should make compassion easier to practice, not harder. Clear policies help leaders respond consistently, protect vulnerable people, and know when to involve professional help.
-
Responding to Trauma and Abuse with Presence and Care: Mental Health in the Church (Part 8 of 12)
Trauma is often at the root of what looks, from the outside, like anxiety, depression, withdrawal, anger, or spiritual numbness. A trauma-informed church does not try to fix people quickly; it creates safety, patience, and room for healing.
-
The Difference Between Pastoral Care and Clinical Care: Mental Health in the Church (Part 4 of 12)
Pastoral care and clinical care are related, but they are not the same thing. A healthy church should know the difference so it can care wisely, refer appropriately, and avoid placing impossible burdens on pastors or congregants.
-
Responding to Psychosis with Clarity and Compassion: Mental Health in the Church (Part 7 of 12)
Psychosis can be frightening for the person experiencing it and for the people around them, but churches can respond in ways that are calm, humane, and helpful. The goal to recognize when someone may be losing contact with reality and needs prompt support.
-
Suicide and Self-Harm Prevention and Postvention: Mental Health in the Church (Part 6 of 12)
Churches need to speak about suicide and self-harm with honesty, calm, and care. Silence can leave suffering people feeling invisible, while clear and compassionate language can make it easier to ask for help.
We Are His Workmanship 