As we began working with parents who have children with mental health challenges, one of the things we learned was that not all churches are supportive of mental health journeys.
It was honestly a bit shocking, but not surprising. Our church has supported us immensely well through the entirety of our sons’ recent struggles since 2019. A comprehensive care team, wise counsel, response during emergencies — we couldn’t have asked for better outcomes.
When talking to parents, we’re encouraged to hear that some are being cared for very well during the unpredictable ups and downs of their children’s various crises, but some statements are hard to hear:
- My small group doesn’t know what to do with my family.
- Our pastor said we are a drain on resources.
- We were counseled that we chose this, so we should bear it with joy.
- Our church teaches that mental health is a result of a lack of prayer and faith. What are we doing so terribly wrong?
One of our goals at SHHIP is to ensure that parents are cared for very well by their spiritual home. If you’re part of a church that is struggling to care for a family with mental health crises, or if your church would like to explore this as a community missions area, please contact us and let’s have a conversation!
How is your church supporting or not supporting parents who have children with mental health crises? Let us know in the comments below.
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