Wellness

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.

Did you know the average age of onset for mental illnesses is 14? This is not when individuals are diagnosed, but looking back, this is the average age when many begin struggling.

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.

For many, a mental illness—theirs or a loved one’s—cuts right into the way they see themselves, God, and their community of faith. Here are ways people need the Church to step up and connect.

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.

Mental health is the great mission field of the 21st century, and it is time the Church recognized its God-given role. The involvement of the Church is the missing piece necessary to transform our broken system.