Have you ever wondered what the Christian view of mental illness is? Mental illness affects many people, even those in the Church. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about twenty percent of adults in the U.S. experience a mental illness each year. Mental illnesses are quite common yet stigmatized.
Many people are unsure of the biblical perspective of mental illness. I have experienced a bit of stigma regarding mental illness in Church.
This article aims to look at what the Bible has to say about mental illness. I hope the report will guide Christians who may be struggling with mental health issues or are supporting others who are. We will discuss the following,
- What does the Bible say: Christian view of mental illness
- What is mental illness?
- Spiritual warfare and mental illness,
- Prayer and spiritual practices use in addressing mental health issues,
- The role of the church community and support in addressing and overcoming mental illness,
- Discerning the difference between mental illness and spiritual oppression,
- Forgiveness and healing from mental health concerns, a Christian perspective
- The effect of abuse and trauma on mental health and the biblical response,
- Grace and compassion in addressing mental illness in the Church: Christian view of mental illness
- The importance of professional medical help in addition to spiritual support, and
- How to minister to those struggling with mental illness in the Church.
By providing a view from the Bible on mental health, I hope to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and offer hope and healing for those struggling with mental illnesses in Church.
What Does The Bible Say: Christian View Of Mental Illness
The Bible is what should guide on the Christian View of mental illness. It talks about the human mind and emotions. It describes the mind as a vital part of our humanity, designed to reflect the image of God. God created our minds and emotions to function healthily. The fall of humankind has resulted in brokenness in all areas of our lives.
This does not, however, mean that God is absent or uncaring in the face of mental illness. Have you ever wondered where God is in mental illness? Do know that the Bible contains passages that offer hope, healing, and compassion for those struggling with mental health.
Here are some passages on what the Bible says about the human mind and emotions.
- The book of Proverbs talks of the mind as “the lamp of the Lord” (Proverbs 20:27) that lights our understanding of God and everything around us.
- The Psalms offer an understanding of human feelings. They describe a range of emotions, such as joy (Psalm 126:2), sorrow (Psalm 6:6), and fear (Psalm 34:4).
- God cares deeply about our emotional and mental well-being. In Isaiah 61:1-3 we see the Lord’s desire to heal and comfort the brokenhearted.
It’s also important to note that mental health is a complex and touching topic. It’s necessary to consult experts in the mental health field and your Pastor or another religious leader to help with your struggles with your mental health.
What Is Mental Illness?
Mental illness affects how a person behaves, thinks, and feels. It covers various disorders ranging from mild anxiety to chronic schizophrenia. A mental disease hampers a person’s ability to think, feel, process and react to life situations in usual ways.
Malfunctioning of our brains can badly distort our thinking and perceptions, resulting in harmful and hurtful actions and thoughts. Being mentally ill can distort our views of others, God, and ourselves. Mental illnesses can, at times, lead one to sinful behavior. Some Christians view mental illness as making one very sinful. This is not a biblical view.
God is compassionate to us in our weaknesses. He can heal us or help us to manage our mental illnesses. When he walked on earth, Jesus healed many people who were considered mentally ill. The Gerasenes demoniac in Mark 5:1–20 would have been deemed mentally ill by psychiatrists today. He would probably be confined to a mental institution. But Jesus went for the real problem and cast out the evil spirits in him. Another incident when he cast spirits out of a person is in Mark 1:34 and Luke 11:14.
Jesus also healed people who were mentally sick. Not all mental health issues are caused by demons. For instance, many people with schizophrenia do not react to the name of Jesus, which they would do if they were demonized.
Is There A Link Between Mental Illness And Spiritual Warfare?
Many people today have been diagnosed with mental illnesses but what they have is demonic influence. Such people need to surrender to Jesus as this would lead them to deliverance.
We live in a fallen world and are constantly under the influence of Satan and his minions. The enemy seeks to harm us in any way he can. Spiritual warfare is real and can manifest in various ways in our lives, including in our mental health. Ephesians 6:12 talks about our struggle not being against flesh and blood but against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Our struggles with mental illness can have a spiritual dimension. Some cases of mental illness may result from spiritual oppression or attack rather than just a chemical imbalance in the brain. However, it’s also important to note that mental illness is a complex topic, and not all cases are necessarily caused by spiritual warfare. It’s also essential to distinguish between mental health issues and personal sin and seek professional and pastoral help.
It’s important to consult experts in the field of mental health and Bible studies, as well as trained spiritual leaders, to understand the distinction and how to act accordingly. Do note that assuming that someone with an unwell mind is under spiritual oppression is not the biblical or Christian view of mental illness.
Addressing Mental Health Issues: Christian View of Mental Illness
Prayer and spiritual practices play a significant role in the life of a Christian. These also pray a role in addressing mental health concerns. We are encouraged to pray in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:17) and to cast our anxieties on God (1 Peter 5:7). Alongside prayer, there are also spiritual practices that bring healing and restoration in mental health cases.
These practices include,
- Meditating on scripture (Joshua 1:8)
- Practicing thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6)
- Forgiveness (Colossians 3:13)
These practices can help promote emotional well-being.
It’s crucial to note that these spiritual practices are best when combined with other therapeutic interventions and treatments prescribed by mental health professionals. Mental health issues can be complex and can dramatically affect life.
If your faith is not enough to receive your healing, you should see a mental health expert without feeling any condemnation. The proper treatment of mental illness is complex and may often include spiritual and medical components.
The Healing Power Of Community And Support In Mental Illness
Community and support are essential in the lives of believers. The Church, as the body of Christ, is expected to care for each member and show love and compassion to everyone.
In cases of mental illness, community and support can be especially critical in the healing process. Having people who understand and support you can make a significant difference in the journey toward recovery.
Friends and family can also play a significant role in supporting someone with a mental illness. This support can take various forms, such as,
- Providing practical help and care,
- Providing a listening ear,
- Offering words of encouragement and hope, and
- Providing education and awareness about mental health.
How To Differentiate Between Spiritual Oppression And Mental Illness
It is not always easy to distinguish between spiritual oppression and mental illness. In some cases, a person with a mental illness can also be going through spiritual oppression. This is a valid biblical and Christian view of mental illness.
One way to discern the difference between spiritual oppression and mental illness is to consult with trained spiritual leaders, such as pastors or counselors. They provide guidance and prayer for deliverance from spiritual oppression. Additionally, it’s essential to consider the context, personal background, and history of the person, understanding if any traumatic events or spiritual abuse has occurred in their life.
As well, seeking professional medical help, consultation, and diagnostic assessment is crucial to integrate spiritual and medical approaches in the treatment.
Remember that discernment is not always easy, and it may take a mature Christian to tell the difference.
Some people thought I had spiritual oppression, while others thought I was sick. I talked to doctors, and I spoke to my Pastor about my problem. In the long run, spiritual deliverance and medication worked for me. From my personal experience, I also learned that not every Pastor is well-equipped to handle mental health issues.
Unlocking the Healing Power of Forgiveness: Christian View Of Mental illness
The Bible teaches us the importance of forgiveness. Unforgiveness can stand in the way of healing, particularly in mental health cases. Matthew 6:14-15 says, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Holding on to grudges and resentments exerts a heavy burden on your heart and mind. Forgiveness comes easy when you know you are helping yourself heal and let go of negative attitudes.
You can practice forgiveness in various ways. You can consult your Pastor or spiritual leader to help you through it. Psychologists and counselors can also help you.
Practical ways to let go of the venom of unforgiveness are the following,
- By writing letters of forgiveness to the one who offended you and not sending them. You can make the letter as detailed as you want so that you vent your feelings. You then need to put the letter away or burn it.
- You can pray for the person or situation. This is a humbling exercise that drains the unforgiveness from our souls.
- You can find ways to be a blessing to the person who has hurt you. Cook their favorite meal, buy them a gift, and other such gestures.
You may find that forgiveness is not always easy, but it doesn’t mean forgetting or excusing the wrong that was done to you. It does not even mean reconciliation. It is a process that can take time. Be patient with yourself and seek the help of professional experts and pastoral care if needed.
A Biblical Perspective On Healing Trauma and Abuse
Trauma and abuse contribute significantly to mental ill health. The Bible teaches the necessity of healing and restoration for those affected by traumatic and abusive experiences.
You can expect suffering, abuse, and injustice in a fallen world. The Bible acknowledges that such things happen. However, you should have hope and a vision for restoration, justice, and healing, as in the Bible.
Psalms 34:18 promises us that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Isaiah 61:1-4 speaks about the Lord coming to bind up the brokenhearted and bring freedom for the captives. The verse proclaims that God’s love and justice bring healing to those who have suffered from traumatizing experiences.
You can heal from trauma and abuse by getting counseling help in the Church. You can also get support from the church community. Seeking support from the community, friends, and family is also essential, alongside pastoral care.
Cultivating A Culture Of Grace And Compassion In Addressing Mental Illness In The Church
The Church is called to be a community of grace and compassion, which is especially important when addressing mental illness. The Christian view of mental illness should reflect this. Unfortunately, mental illness is still stigmatized in many Christian communities, and those who struggle with mental health issues can feel isolated and alone.
I was isolated and alone for the longest time as I suffered from mental illnesses. The Church must create a safe and welcoming environment for those struggling with mental health concerns. Loving even those with mental health issues is a part of Christ’s command that we love one another.
Here are some ways the Church can minister grace and provide involvement for those with mental health issues.
- Breaking Stigma and Promoting Understanding of the Christian View of Mental Illness
This can be done by educating the congregation about mental health issues, encouraging open and honest conversations, and supporting those struggling with mental health concerns. It’s important to remember that mental illness is not a personal failure or a lack of faith. It is a health issue that requires support, compassion, and understanding.
- The Church needs to offer practical and emotional support, resources, and guidance for those struggling with mental health concerns and to be a place of refuge, hope, and healing. Also, consulting with experts and professionals in the field and creating a network of support and referral can provide valuable guidance
- Self-compassion is about being kind and understanding towards oneself, especially during difficult times. It involves recognizing that suffering and mistakes are a part of being human and treating oneself with the same compassion and forgiveness that one would offer a friend. This can include self-compassionate self-talk, mindfulness, and self-compassion exercises. This helps reduce feelings of guilt, shame, and self-criticism. The Church can foster this by being supportive. This is a biblical and Christian view of mental illness.
It’s important to remember that self-care and self-compassion are not selfish but rather essential for well-being and crucial in the journey of healing. Seek help, guidance, and support from professionals, friends and family, and the community of faith in taking care of yourself.
In conclusion, the Bible teaches us that mental illness is not a curse but a reality that is part of the human experience. God’s love and grace extend to those struggling with mental illness, and the Bible provides guidance on how to care for those affected by it.
The Bible teaches the importance of seeking help and being part of a Christian community. This is critical even when one has mental health issues. The Church has a vital role in ministering to those struggling with mental illness by providing emotional and spiritual support and practical help and care.
The Church needs to create a safe and welcoming environment for those struggling with mental health concerns, educate and raise awareness about mental health issues, and provide resources and guidance for those seeking help. As a society, we must work together to break the stigma and provide support and understanding for those affected by mental illness.Top of Form
What are your experiences with mental illness in Church? Share here below in the comments your Christian view of mental illness.