The Relationship Between Christianity and Mental Health

Written by Rev. Lauren Gerlach

Health is a term that can be applied in a variety of ways… not only are physical &mental health both extremely important, but so is spiritual health. Our Christian faith offers a unique hope to this world, and all who are in it, because one key teaching of this faith is that we are not alone. God is with us…always! Sure, there are days (for all of us) when we may not feel God’s presence, but that doesn’t make this truth any less true.

Time and time again in scripture, we are told that God is always with us. Jesus teaches his disciples, saying “Behold, I am with you always” (Matt 28:20). A relationship with God is uniquely powerful in a way unlike any other relationship. Why? First of all, this is God we are talking about! The One who made us, loves us, and desires eternity with us. Secondly, to pray, is to be in dialogue with God. That is all prayer is, simply talking with God. Lifting up anything or everything to Him. There are no prerequisites and no certain works that need to be done. Prayer is just honest conversation. Amazingly, the Christian faith is one that encourages us to even bring ALL of our stuff (struggles, anxieties, anger, or fear) and share how we are feeling with God. He can handle it! Seriously. In the Gospels, Jesus says “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matt 11:28-30) This is not to say that prayer is the only practice or answer to a given circumstance, it is just one component to consider incorporating on a journey of health and healing. Other practices that are specifically geared toward mental health such as therapy, connection with others, and self-care are still necessary and highly valuable!

Embracing faith is a powerful way to give perspective to our lives and present circumstances. So often, our mental health is prone to suffer when we lose perspective. Properly orienting ourselves to the reality of God’s promises of steadfast presence, overflowing love, and abounding grace are key truths that bear repeating.

One idea: Take a sticky note, a sharpie, and a few minutes to write down one of these truths… then put the sticky note somewhere you will see it daily (ex: fridge, car dashboard, bathroom mirror). We all need reminding and help maintaining perspective.

The love God has for us is far greater than we could ever measure. While that may be hard to process, it is true. What do you hope for those you love? A healthy state of mind, of course. Because He loves us, God desires for each of us to experience mental wellness and no matter where we are in that journey, God meets us right where we are. That is a real, loving relationship: accepting where one is, loving them steadfastly, and doing anything we can to encourage each other to take the necessary steps toward health. Whatever next steps, whether prayer and connecting to your faith, and/or speaking with a mental health professional, pastor, or trusted friend; these are all ways to respond to call to protect and nourish your mental wellness. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua1:9)

‍