What about all the discussion of mental illness in the church?

Recent events have thrust the issue of Mental Illness within churches across America. Pastors of mega-churches are writing articles for magazines, newspapers, and their own blogs. Several have had personal experiences with mental illness either through a family member or a member of their congregation.

Ok, I’m not a pastor of a mega-church, in fact, I’m not currently pastoring, just actively involved in my local church, and heading up a ministry called “Allen Ministry Resources”. I’m also a Chaplain at a State Psychiatric Hospital and have spent over 30 years in the substance abuse and mental health field. I’m very excited about the influx of pastors who are sharing their stories and informing the public about mental illness among the Christian population.  For too long we have allowed the world to define Mental Illness or explain our position on mental illness in the new media.

The question that has challenged man for centuries is simple and complex at the same time, “What is Mental Illness?” If there was an easy answer, it wouldn’t be an issue. In my view, mental illness is a disease of the mind, it is not a sin, it is not a moral failure, it is not a lapse in judgment, and it is not a demonic spirit, talking.   I believe that Mental Illness can be any of these, but mental illness is the mind not working correctly.

When I damaged the meniscus in my knee I could live with the pain, I prayed and had a number of friends pray for my healing. But the time came to see a doctor and get treatment. Which would eventually result in having two total knee replacements.  My family and friends encouraged me to go to the doctor, took me to my surgery and physical therapy appointments, and made sure I took my medication. What is different with our family, friends, and church members who suffer from mental illness?

I personally know some great Christian psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, and social workers who help people with mental illness stabilize their mental illness which helps them strengthen their relationship with God and the community. I also know some questionable pastors that at every turn, tell members to avoid those quacks (talking about the mental health professionals); and miss the opportunity to have some great Godly men and women in their church because those members remain untreated.

Pastor, I’m going to give you some breaking news: The estimate today is that over 18% (43 million adults over age 18 years old) of Americans suffer from some form of mental illness in the form of depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bi-Polar, PTSD, and other diagnosable mental illness. The sad news is that they are also attending our churches. We can either ignore it or develop the attitude that we only need to pray for them or we can help them find comfort in God’s love through professional treatment.

My education consists of a Ph.D. in Psychology and Christian Counseling, and I have over thirty years of experience working within the mental health community and over 40 years in pastoral ministry. I have come to three collisions:

1)      Only God can diagnose whether an individual is demon-possessed, so if someone comes presenting symptoms of mental illness until God gives me clear wisdom and insight. I’m going to treat the one that is treatable and believe that God is going to honor that.  Just like with any other illness, I’m going to use the most modern methods and resources (medication and discussion with a professional) to help the person become stable and well.

 2)      The church is made of people with diverse opinions which include opinions on mental illness.  I believe it is a matter of what works best for the patient so he/she may function in his home, community, and in church. 

3)      As my current pastor always says, “God doesn’t want something from you, he wants something for you!” I am convinced that God wants the best for our family, friends, and church members that suffer from mental illness. This should include the best medication available, the best treatment options, the best doctors, and supportive family, friends, and church community until the day that God chooses to do the miracle and heal their minds and restore them to health.

     I’m convinced today that Pastors, Church Members, and Spiritual Family members should stop allowing the stigma that has impacted the church for so long that Mental Illness is something to simply pray about, and you will be healed. Don’t miss understand me no one believes God can do Miracles more than I do, I have seen him heal individuals both physically and mentally. However, as a professional counselor, chaplain, and pastor I will encourage them to get treatment until he does.  

By Dr. Don Allen, Jr