"May is Mental Health Awareness Month"

Dr. Donna Scott, ThD, BCMHC

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and an opportune time for us to examine where we are as a people as well as a church when it comes to the stigmatization that continues to follow this critical area of our well-being. While society overall has begun trending toward more awareness, there has not been that same movement in churches, especially congregations that are historically houses of worship for people of color. Because there remains significant opposition to the topic of mental health in our communities, it is hard to eliminate the stigmas attached. This is crucial as this same stigma enhances the reluctance get the mental health care that is needed.

The rate of experiences of mental health challenges in the African American community is as frequent as most other people groups, while 40% of white people seek treatment in contrast to 25% of Black Americans. This is not a new phenomenon as it has been reported that Martin Luther King Jr. suffered severe depression several periods in his life but was reluctant to seek psychiatric care because of the stigma attached. It was also mentioned that some of his staffed attempted to get him to seek help, but he refused treatment. This kind of perception must be addressed and become a focal point for the church to take notice. Some of the same people included in these statistical numbers are also part of our church congregations. Somehow, we have avoided the scripture text that encourages us to give care to the soul, which is the seat of many of life’s trauma. We find the writer of 1 Thessalonians 5:23 saying Now, may the God of peace himself cause you to be completely dedicated to him; and may your spirit, soul, and body be kept intact and blameless at our Lord Jesus Christ’s coming. (CEB) giving a clear picture of the 3 intricate parts of our being. And yes, God is concerned about the WHOLE of mankind. Our souls do matter!

Following the pandemic the increase of individuals seeking mental health assistance started to increase significantly. With a deeper look at the people groups, the next generation of our young people are in crisis and the professionals have begun to have conversations as to what should be done. Those in their teenage years have reported that they are experiencing increased levels of depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation. Even if these specific young people are not part of our congregations, often their parents, grandparents and friends are. If our focus is on souls, this group is just waiting to be rescued by the gospel of Jesus Christ. For the church to become the support, source of education and health resource that is needed there has to be an understanding of the conditions of mankind and a passion to see ALL SOULS healed!!

Faith Leaders have operated as first responders for their congregations for years but have been weakened by the lack of resources in addition to the stigma that exist regarding mental health. Most congregants will seek out their Pastor before going to a professional. This can afford churches an amazing opportunity to help our young people that may be struggling. The church can provide an environment where young people can express their feelings and receive help without criticism. Addressing their mental health openly we can provide much needed coping mechanisms to help as they approach adulthood. This is how we can help one another as we are encouraged to do in Galatians 6:2 Carry each other’s burdens and so you will fulfill the law of Christ. 

As a mental health paraprofessional and CEO of a not-for-profit organization which focuses on suicide ideation, I see the opportunity for the church to reach souls in a new and profound way. The American Association of Christian Counselors report that this is an ideal time to start mental health ministries. Creating a culture where young people can feel understood and accepted can go a long way in young people feeling comfortable in sharing. AACC have worked hard in this area by training peers, parents and mental health coaches to provide critical “first responder” care. Unmasking Suicide, Incorporated have been a recipient of these amazing resources.

We at US, Inc. are working diligently in the community to bring opportunities to area churches to become the mental health safe havens needed. By partnering with Behavior Health Network of STL, we are providing suicide intervention and Pastoral Compassionate Care training for congregations interested in becoming a light in this area. A congregation that has a burden for souls suffering in silence could provide education, partnerships with professionals in the area, offer resources and referrals, and address the ugly head of mental health stigma. 

In addition to the discipleship efforts mentioned, promoting spiritual growth is essential in the work of a ministry of this sort. Bible studies and prayer groups can help individuals fighting mental health issues to grow in faith. Part of growing in faith is being assured that God cares for them. This teaching will provide and increase hope. When we understand that our souls matter as much as our spirit, we will focus intentionally on issues of the soul. In addition, we will find satisfaction in assisting individuals who may be suffering. The Bible shows us in 1 Peter 5:7 Throw all your anxiety onto him, because he cares about you, that God cares about our soul.

A mental health ministry will provide a great resource but does not eliminate the option to encourage an individual to seek professional-level help from a licensed therapist or counselor. In the hour in which we live all opportunities to win a soul is critical. Considering the environmental, political, financial and societal ills we face, we are all challenged to maintain a healthy mental state. This is the hour we NEED one another to walk the journey of our faith. Our soul plays a significant role in that success. A traumatized soul will inevitably affect the spiritual success we all seek to maintain. As we examine our ministries and areas of discipleship, remember my soul matter, your soul matter, ALL SOULS DO MATTER!

Dr. Donna Scott, ThD, BCMHC

https://www.dmsministry.org

evangelist@dmsministry.org

314-719-6505