It is clear that there is a need for the treatment of mental health problems within our churches, just as there is a need in mainstream society. Whilst we do not have any specific statistics for the prevalence of mental health problems in Christians (or any other faith), it has been suggested that the prevalence is the same as in the general population.
There is no reason to think that Christians will not suffer from mental health problems. Whatever your faith, we are all subject to the same risk factors in this fallen world (genetics, imperfect childhoods, trauma, bereavement etc). Indeed, sometimes Christians may find it even more difficult than the average person to be struggling with a mental health problem. This is because of a perception that since Christians should be joyous and secure in the grace of God through Jesus Christ, they should not be depressed or anxious.
This perception is inaccurate and unhelpful; the causes of mental health problems are often entirely separate to matters of faith. Importantly, however, the symptoms of poor mental health often affect a Christian’s outward expression of faith. For example:
Lack of motivation (symptom of depression) can make attending church activities or reading the Bible very difficult
Poor concentration (symptom of depression) can make reading the Bible or praying or listening in church very difficult
Excessive feelings of guilt and worthlessness (symptom of depression) can impact on how a Christian reacts to sin, forgiveness and grace
Panic attacks and avoidance (symptom of a number of anxiety disorders) can make attending church activities very difficult
Psychological Therapy in Christians
Just as in anyone with a difficulty such as depression or anxiety, psychological therapy (particularly Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) can be very effective in alleviating the symptoms and giving you more control over your moods. This is the same for Christians.
Many Christians seem to prefer to seek therapy from a psychologist who is a Christian; someone who is both professionally qualified and who shares the same basic beliefs and world-view. The advantage of this is simply that there exists a mutual understanding of lifestyle issues (such as church attendance etc) and the knowledge of the Christian faith.
Dr Fiona J. Denton is a Clinical Psychologist, and a Christian who has been involved in St Pauls Anglican Church, Carlingford (www.stpaulscarlingford.org.au) and its recent church-plant, North Rocks Anglican Church, for over 15 years.
If you are a Christian person seeking psychological therapy (for depression or anxiety, for example), please be aware of a few important facts:
In many cases the nature of the therapy will not be any different to that offered to another person with a similar difficulty, Christian or not. This is because research has shown particular types of therapy and specific therapy techniques to be effective in treating particular mental health problems, and this is irrespective of whether the client is male or female, young or old, Christian or otherwise.
Fiona does not offer "christian counselling"; that is, pastoral care involving guidance with regard to theological/spiritual issues. Whilst she is highly qualified in psychology, Fiona is not theologically trained and is therefore not the best person to be assisting with such matters.
As for all clients, during therapy you are free to discuss as much or as little of your faith as you choose. If your depression/anxiety is not particularly related to your faith, but rather to family issues (for example), you may find it doesn't come up very often.
All psychologists are bound by a code of ethics that necessitates they remain impartial and non-judgemental of clients with regard to their personal, spiritual or moral beliefs. So if you are of another faith or have doubts about your faith, you can be assured an impartial response. Fiona's role is to treat the emotional/psychological problems with evidence-based therapy, not offer personal or spiritual advice. The latter is best sought from your pastor or a friend.
Fiona is passionate about effectively treating and raising the level of awareness of mental health issues, particularly within the Christian community. For any enquiries relating to therapy or talks/seminars at your church, please contact us.
