The Mental Health & Faith Connection: Why Does It Matter?

The United States is currently experiencing a critical mental health crisis. 1 in 5 adults (around 60 million individuals) experience mental illness each year, marked by rising levels of anxiety and depression. At the same time, a severe crisis characterized by increased rates of sadness and hopelessness among youth, with suicide being the second leading cause of death for those between 10 and 24 years of age.

It’s clear that something has to change. And we’re hoping this event can kickstart that much-needed shift.

The church plays a specific role in addressing the mental health crisis. With reduced resource availability and limited access to care across the area, faith leaders have the ability to bridge the gap. Yet it’s becoming glaringly obvious that very few actually know what to do when a loved one is experiencing emotional or psychological distress. Grandparents, parents, and loved ones of folks struggling with mental illness come to their pastor for advice and support. While church leaders are equipped with pastoral care skills, these are often situations that warrant experienced professionals.

And that’s exactly where our Symposium comes in. We’ll tap and learn from local leaders, mental health professionals, and other organizations with a goal of teaching our churches and faith leaders.

Jesus healed the sick and uplifted the lowly; it is well within the realm of Christian discipleship to attend to mental health concerns in ways that do no harm. This project is designed to equip both congregants and community partners with the tools needed to handle mental health concerns as they arise in safe and healthy ways.