Mental illnesses are complex, affecting each person impacted by them in a unique way. Thus, there’s always more to know about what it’s like to live with mental health conditions and how to come alongside those who must navigate the daily challenges of dealing with these illnesses.
Since 1949, when Mental Health America established Mental Health Awareness Month, May has been a time of special focus on increasing understanding of mental health challenges. As a faith-based organization serving adults living with severe mental illnesses, The Well Community particularly wants to help bring awareness to churches, clergy and lay leaders about mental health and faith during May.
The Lutheran Foundation has put together a great toolkit you might find especially helpful. Click here to download their PDF.
In addition, consider choosing some of the books, websites and blogs from the lists below to expand your own awareness and understanding of mental illnesses. Learn to cultivate empathy for those who live with mental health difficulties and discover how you and your congregation can serve families dealing daily with such challenges.
Books:
Troubled Minds: Mental Illness and the Church’s Mission by Amy Simpson
Grace for the Afflicted: A Clinical and Biblical Perspective on Mental Illness by Matthew S. Stanford
Mental Health and the Church: A Ministry Handbook for Including Children and Adults with ADHD, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, and Other Common Mental Health Conditions by Stephen Grcevich
Toward a Theology of Psychological Disorder by Marcia Webb
Darkness Is My Only Companion: A Christian Response to Mental Illness by Kathryn Greene-McCreight
31 Days, 31 Ways 2 Pray 4 Families and Sparks of Redemptive Grace by Catherine P. Downing
Websites:
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
National Institute of Mental Health
Blogs
The Well Community’s blog and social media channels are also excellent sources of information on mental illnesses and tips for supporting those impacted by these conditions. Check out our blog for the latest articles, and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter for a steady stream of resources related to mental health.