A church should know how to respond calmly and wisely when someone is in psychological distress. Mental health crises can include suicidal thoughts, self-harm, psychosis, severe agitation, or a person becoming unable to care for themselves safely.
Mental Health in the Church
Caring for the Soul: The Church’s Call to Mental Health Ministry
Mental health ministry is not optional—it fulfills the law of Christ to love one another. The stories of David, Job, Jeremiah, Elijah, Hannah, Jonah and Jesus remind us that emotional pain has always been part of the human experience, but God’s compassion is greater than our despair.
10 Best Practices for Overcoming Mental Health Stigma and Misconceptions in the Church
Helpful practices for overcoming mental health stigma and misconceptions in the church include education and awareness, open dialogue, using respectful language, challenging discrimination and many more.
Common Mental Health Stigmas (Negative, Unfair Beliefs, Misconceptions and Myths) in the Church and Community
In both church and community, mental health is often seen as a spiritual failure, a personal weakness, or something shameful and dangerous, rather than as a real health issue that can affect anyone and often needs both spiritual and professional care.
Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries Equips the Church to Support Mental Health and Wellbeing
The Sanctuary Course equips churches as they seek to become sanctuaries where people with mental health challenges feel safe, supported, and a sense of belonging.
Caring for the Whole Person: Why Mental Health Matters in the Church
Emphasizing mental health in the church is crucial because it enables faith communities to offer holistic care, break stigma, and promote healing for individuals who often feel isolated or overlooked.
How People Experiencing Mental Illness Can Meaningfully Serve and Be Supported in the Church
People experiencing mental illness can not only continue to serve in various roles within Christian churches but often bring unique gifts, empathy, and insights to ministry.
We Are His Workmanship 