Even though studies show spirituality can be protective against mental distress, when faced with suffering,  spiritual awareness is pulled to the forefront - working to build resilience for future stressors … mental health, therefore, is a discipleship opportunity.

Resilience is a learned skill and trait and becomes part of your character (nature). Resilience is not about striving for happiness (the “blessed life” in God) but rather knowing how to see God’s “blessings” just as much in the complexity and uncertainty (a contentment, and unshakable strength of Christ in all things, Phil. 4:13).

One of the most interesting observations across culture and science is the shift from compartmentalized sickness management to a whole-health management lifestyle.

In short, the simple answer is "no" — taking medications and seeking therapy for mental health challenges is not a sin or a sign of weak faith! In fact, Christians should consider mental health medications and therapy if and when needed because it's not only wise, it’s Scriptural — and part of the faith journey, not a lack of it. Let’s explore why and a beautiful Scriptural perspective to overcome the stigma!

“Stigma is a dignity issue, not a campaign issue ... and it’s easier than we think to “break mental health stigma.” We have to rethink our methods.” Here are simple ways to break stigma and build a stigma-free church.

Over the last year and a half, I have heard from more and more students in our youth group who are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, and loneliness. For some of these students, these feelings are so heavy that they are questioning whether or not life is really worth living. Some of these students take medication; some see therapists; some have strong relational support systems to lean on; some have nothing at all.