Mental Health

Every ethnic minority group in the United States has a story to tell and experiences to share concerning racism and discrimination. If you feel led to create a safe space for those affected by race-based trauma, consider the following steps before moving forward.

Recently, the mental health community has focused on understanding a phenomenon known as trauma bonds. This interest is mostly due to our efforts to better understand and treat interpersonal violence victims, such as domestic violence and human trafficking. Here's why it matters in ministry.

Recovery from trauma requires that we consistently focus our brains’ attention on that which contributes to the reversal of our trauma.

When a crisis or tragic event takes place, churchgoers ask, “What can I do to help?” We can empower congregants by helping them identify and utilize the tools they have as Christians. God is at work within every Christian, preparing them to help others.

When treating kids with trauma, I remember these two crucial elements: therapeutic relationships are essential, and being developmentally appropriate is honoring. For the sake of children, let’s join in the play.

I encourage churches to actively train and deploy “Christian firemen”—running toward those being devastated by the “flames” of mental illness when everyone else is running away.

Just below the surface, it affects daily interactions, vision casting and strategic planning. It affects how we relate to God and how we relate to others. I call it Post Traumatic Church Disorder.

Good mental health does not happen by accident. Mentally healthy people make small, daily choices that contribute to their mental health.