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Why Church Can Be Horrible For The Mentally Ill- Dave Quak
Manage episode 433670592 series 3552754
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Welcome back to Sunburnt Souls. In today’s episode, we’re tackling a tough but necessary topic: why church can be horrible for the mentally ill. It’s a conversation that’s long overdue, and I’m here to unpack some of the ways our well-meaning churches can unintentionally become places of discomfort and pain for those battling mental health issues. From rigid structures to misconceptions about spirituality, we’re diving into the deep end.
First up, let’s talk about the rigid nature of our church services. I’m not just talking about the order of service—although that can be part of the problem—but our limited tolerance for anything outside the norm. I’ve seen it firsthand: people get uneasy when someone breaks the mold, like the guy who sat under a blanket during worship. But here’s the thing—what works for one person might be exactly what another needs to cope with anxiety or sensory overload. We need to create spaces where people feel free to do what they need without fear of judgment.
Next, there’s a pervasive, unspoken belief that people with mental illness are somehow unfit for public ministry. While no one would say it out loud, the reality is that pastors with conditions like bipolar disorder are incredibly rare. The fear of “what if?” often keeps us from acknowledging that mental illness doesn’t disqualify someone from hearing God or leading His people. It’s time we rethink this and recognise that every leader, regardless of mental health, is operating under God’s grace and accountability.
Finally, let’s address a theological misconception that’s been floating around for far too long—the idea that struggling with anxiety, depression, or any mental health issue is a sign of spiritual weakness. This belief can be both explicit and subtle, but it’s damaging either way. The truth is, mental illness is a real, physiological condition, and it’s not a reflection of someone’s spiritual state. In fact, some of the most spiritually mature individuals have battled mental health issues. Our job is to support, not judge, those who are struggling.
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