Mental Health and the Church

Mental Health and the Church

Author: Stephen Grcevich, MD

Publisher: Zondervan

Published: 2018-02-06

Total Pages: 208

ISBN-13: 0310534828

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The church across North America has struggled to minister effectively with children, teens, and adults with common mental health conditions and their families. One reason for the lack of ministry is the absence of a widely accepted model for mental health outreach and inclusion. In Mental Health and the Church: A Ministry Handbook for Including Children and Adults with ADHD, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, and Other Common Mental Health Conditions, Dr. Stephen Grcevich presents a simple and flexible model for mental health inclusion ministry for implementation by churches of all sizes, denominations, and organizational styles. The model is based upon recognition of seven barriers to church attendance and assimilation resulting from mental illness: stigma, anxiety, self-control, differences in social communication and sensory processing, social isolation and past experiences of church. Seven broad inclusion strategies are presented for helping persons of all ages with common mental health conditions and their families to fully participate in all of the ministries offered by the local church. The book is also designed to be a useful resource for parents, grandparents and spouses interested in promoting the spiritual growth of loved ones with mental illness.


Book Synopsis Mental Health and the Church by : Stephen Grcevich, MD

Download or read book Mental Health and the Church written by Stephen Grcevich, MD and published by Zondervan. This book was released on 2018-02-06 with total page 208 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The church across North America has struggled to minister effectively with children, teens, and adults with common mental health conditions and their families. One reason for the lack of ministry is the absence of a widely accepted model for mental health outreach and inclusion. In Mental Health and the Church: A Ministry Handbook for Including Children and Adults with ADHD, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, and Other Common Mental Health Conditions, Dr. Stephen Grcevich presents a simple and flexible model for mental health inclusion ministry for implementation by churches of all sizes, denominations, and organizational styles. The model is based upon recognition of seven barriers to church attendance and assimilation resulting from mental illness: stigma, anxiety, self-control, differences in social communication and sensory processing, social isolation and past experiences of church. Seven broad inclusion strategies are presented for helping persons of all ages with common mental health conditions and their families to fully participate in all of the ministries offered by the local church. The book is also designed to be a useful resource for parents, grandparents and spouses interested in promoting the spiritual growth of loved ones with mental illness.


Troubled Minds

Troubled Minds

Author: Amy Simpson

Publisher: InterVarsity Press

Published: 2013-04-03

Total Pages: 225

ISBN-13: 0830843043

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Reflecting on the confusion, shame and grief brought on by her mother's schizophrenia, Amy Simpson provides a bracing look at the social and physical realities of mental illness. Reminding us that people with mental illness are our neighbors and our brothers and sisters in Christ, she explores new possibilities for the church to minister to this stigmatized group.


Book Synopsis Troubled Minds by : Amy Simpson

Download or read book Troubled Minds written by Amy Simpson and published by InterVarsity Press. This book was released on 2013-04-03 with total page 225 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Reflecting on the confusion, shame and grief brought on by her mother's schizophrenia, Amy Simpson provides a bracing look at the social and physical realities of mental illness. Reminding us that people with mental illness are our neighbors and our brothers and sisters in Christ, she explores new possibilities for the church to minister to this stigmatized group.


I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die

I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die

Author: Sarah J. Robinson

Publisher: WaterBrook

Published: 2021-05-11

Total Pages: 257

ISBN-13: 0593193539

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A compassionate, shame-free guide for your darkest days “A one-of-a-kind book . . . to read for yourself or give to a struggling friend or loved one without the fear that depression and suicidal thoughts will be minimized, medicalized or over-spiritualized.”—Kay Warren, cofounder of Saddleback Church What happens when loving Jesus doesn’t cure you of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts? You might be crushed by shame over your mental illness, only to be told by well-meaning Christians to “choose joy” and “pray more.” So you beg God to take away the pain, but nothing eases the ache inside. As darkness lingers and color drains from your world, you’re left wondering if God has abandoned you. You just want a way out. But there’s hope. In I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die, Sarah J. Robinson offers a healthy, practical, and shame-free guide for Christians struggling with mental illness. With unflinching honesty, Sarah shares her story of battling depression and fighting to stay alive despite toxic theology that made her afraid to seek help outside the church. Pairing her own story with scriptural insights, mental health research, and simple practices, Sarah helps you reconnect with the God who is present in our deepest anguish and discover that you are worth everything it takes to get better. Beautifully written and full of hard-won wisdom, I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die offers a path toward a rich, hope-filled life in Christ, even when healing doesn’t look like what you expect.


Book Synopsis I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die by : Sarah J. Robinson

Download or read book I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die written by Sarah J. Robinson and published by WaterBrook. This book was released on 2021-05-11 with total page 257 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A compassionate, shame-free guide for your darkest days “A one-of-a-kind book . . . to read for yourself or give to a struggling friend or loved one without the fear that depression and suicidal thoughts will be minimized, medicalized or over-spiritualized.”—Kay Warren, cofounder of Saddleback Church What happens when loving Jesus doesn’t cure you of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts? You might be crushed by shame over your mental illness, only to be told by well-meaning Christians to “choose joy” and “pray more.” So you beg God to take away the pain, but nothing eases the ache inside. As darkness lingers and color drains from your world, you’re left wondering if God has abandoned you. You just want a way out. But there’s hope. In I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die, Sarah J. Robinson offers a healthy, practical, and shame-free guide for Christians struggling with mental illness. With unflinching honesty, Sarah shares her story of battling depression and fighting to stay alive despite toxic theology that made her afraid to seek help outside the church. Pairing her own story with scriptural insights, mental health research, and simple practices, Sarah helps you reconnect with the God who is present in our deepest anguish and discover that you are worth everything it takes to get better. Beautifully written and full of hard-won wisdom, I Love Jesus, But I Want to Die offers a path toward a rich, hope-filled life in Christ, even when healing doesn’t look like what you expect.


Mental Health and Your Church

Mental Health and Your Church

Author: Helen Thorne

Publisher: The Good Book Company

Published: 2023-03-01

Total Pages: 197

ISBN-13: 1784987999

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Helping you and the whole church family understand, nurture and support those with mental-health conditions. Many people are struggling with mental-health conditions, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and life in our image-conscious culture. Statistics tell us that, worldwide, one in six of us will have experienced a mental-health struggle in the past week, and serious depression is the second-leading cause of disability (Mental Health Foundation). That means there are brothers and sisters in our church families battling with thoughts, feelings, impulses, and even voices that distract, drag down, and nudge them towards despair. But when it comes to helping, it can be tricky to know where to begin, especially if we have very little knowledge of mental illnesses and are afraid of making things worse by saying and doing the wrong things. This wise, compassionate, and practical book is written by Steve Midgley, psychiatrist and Executive Director of Biblical Counselling UK, and Helen Thorne, Director of Training and Resources at Biblical Counselling UK. It will help readers understand and respond with biblical wisdom to people who are struggling with their mental health. While acknowledging the importance of liaising responsibly with medics and counsellors, this book focuses on equipping readers to play their part in making churches places where those who struggle with mental-health conditions are welcomed, understood, nurtured, and supported: a foretaste of the new creation. This is a useful book for anyone who cares for others pastorally: pastors, elders, small-group leaders, and congregation members.


Book Synopsis Mental Health and Your Church by : Helen Thorne

Download or read book Mental Health and Your Church written by Helen Thorne and published by The Good Book Company. This book was released on 2023-03-01 with total page 197 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Helping you and the whole church family understand, nurture and support those with mental-health conditions. Many people are struggling with mental-health conditions, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and life in our image-conscious culture. Statistics tell us that, worldwide, one in six of us will have experienced a mental-health struggle in the past week, and serious depression is the second-leading cause of disability (Mental Health Foundation). That means there are brothers and sisters in our church families battling with thoughts, feelings, impulses, and even voices that distract, drag down, and nudge them towards despair. But when it comes to helping, it can be tricky to know where to begin, especially if we have very little knowledge of mental illnesses and are afraid of making things worse by saying and doing the wrong things. This wise, compassionate, and practical book is written by Steve Midgley, psychiatrist and Executive Director of Biblical Counselling UK, and Helen Thorne, Director of Training and Resources at Biblical Counselling UK. It will help readers understand and respond with biblical wisdom to people who are struggling with their mental health. While acknowledging the importance of liaising responsibly with medics and counsellors, this book focuses on equipping readers to play their part in making churches places where those who struggle with mental-health conditions are welcomed, understood, nurtured, and supported: a foretaste of the new creation. This is a useful book for anyone who cares for others pastorally: pastors, elders, small-group leaders, and congregation members.


Mental Health and Your Church

Mental Health and Your Church

Author: Emmanuel James

Publisher: Jstone Publishing

Published:

Total Pages: 60

ISBN-13: 1923238396

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Mental Health and Your Church In a world where mental health struggles are becoming increasingly prevalent, faith communities have a unique and vital role to play in providing support, understanding, and healing. "Mental Health and Your Church" is a groundbreaking resource that seeks to bridge the gap between spiritual care and mental health support, empowering church leaders and congregations to embrace mental health awareness and create an inclusive, compassionate environment for all. "Mental Health and Your Church" is an essential resource for faith communities seeking to better understand, support, and address mental health issues within their congregations. This comprehensive guide explores the vital role that churches can play in fostering mental well-being, providing pastoral care for mental health, and breaking down the stigma surrounding mental illness. Included in this book-- Church mental health support groups Faith-based mental health resources Pastoral care for mental health Spiritual approaches to mental well-being Mental health awareness in religious communities Addressing mental health stigma in churches Mental health inclusion in worship services Christian perspectives on mental health Mental health training for church leaders Church-based mental health outreach programs Understanding the importance of mental health awareness in religious communities, this book delves into Christian perspectives on mental health, offering biblical insights and theological reflections that can inform and guide church leaders and members in their approach to mental health. The book emphasizes the need for churches to create safe, inclusive worship services and activities, ensuring that all members feel welcome and supported regardless of their mental health status. Recognizing the power of connection and community, "Mental Health and Your Church" provides practical guidance on establishing church mental health support groups and developing faith-based mental health resources. These initiatives can help individuals experiencing mental health challenges find solace and encouragement within their faith communities, while also promoting understanding and empathy among all members of the congregation. To address mental health stigma in churches, the book offers strategies for fostering open and honest conversations about mental health and encouraging a culture of compassion and understanding. This includes tips on how to integrate mental health topics into sermons, teachings, and other church programming, as well as guidance on creating church-based mental health outreach programs that serve the broader community. "Mental Health and Your Church" also emphasizes the importance of pastoral care for mental health and provides resources for church leaders to develop their skills in this area. By offering spiritual approaches to mental well-being, such as prayer and meditation, pastors and other faith leaders can play a crucial role in supporting the emotional and psychological health of their congregations. Finally, "Mental Health and Your Church" highlights the importance of collaboration and partnership in addressing mental health needs. This includes guidance on identifying and working with local mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, as well as advice on integrating mental health professionals into church programming and developing a referral network for mental health services. With its comprehensive approach, "Mental Health and Your Church" serves as an invaluable resource for faith communities looking to better support the mental health and well-being of their members.


Book Synopsis Mental Health and Your Church by : Emmanuel James

Download or read book Mental Health and Your Church written by Emmanuel James and published by Jstone Publishing. This book was released on with total page 60 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Mental Health and Your Church In a world where mental health struggles are becoming increasingly prevalent, faith communities have a unique and vital role to play in providing support, understanding, and healing. "Mental Health and Your Church" is a groundbreaking resource that seeks to bridge the gap between spiritual care and mental health support, empowering church leaders and congregations to embrace mental health awareness and create an inclusive, compassionate environment for all. "Mental Health and Your Church" is an essential resource for faith communities seeking to better understand, support, and address mental health issues within their congregations. This comprehensive guide explores the vital role that churches can play in fostering mental well-being, providing pastoral care for mental health, and breaking down the stigma surrounding mental illness. Included in this book-- Church mental health support groups Faith-based mental health resources Pastoral care for mental health Spiritual approaches to mental well-being Mental health awareness in religious communities Addressing mental health stigma in churches Mental health inclusion in worship services Christian perspectives on mental health Mental health training for church leaders Church-based mental health outreach programs Understanding the importance of mental health awareness in religious communities, this book delves into Christian perspectives on mental health, offering biblical insights and theological reflections that can inform and guide church leaders and members in their approach to mental health. The book emphasizes the need for churches to create safe, inclusive worship services and activities, ensuring that all members feel welcome and supported regardless of their mental health status. Recognizing the power of connection and community, "Mental Health and Your Church" provides practical guidance on establishing church mental health support groups and developing faith-based mental health resources. These initiatives can help individuals experiencing mental health challenges find solace and encouragement within their faith communities, while also promoting understanding and empathy among all members of the congregation. To address mental health stigma in churches, the book offers strategies for fostering open and honest conversations about mental health and encouraging a culture of compassion and understanding. This includes tips on how to integrate mental health topics into sermons, teachings, and other church programming, as well as guidance on creating church-based mental health outreach programs that serve the broader community. "Mental Health and Your Church" also emphasizes the importance of pastoral care for mental health and provides resources for church leaders to develop their skills in this area. By offering spiritual approaches to mental well-being, such as prayer and meditation, pastors and other faith leaders can play a crucial role in supporting the emotional and psychological health of their congregations. Finally, "Mental Health and Your Church" highlights the importance of collaboration and partnership in addressing mental health needs. This includes guidance on identifying and working with local mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, as well as advice on integrating mental health professionals into church programming and developing a referral network for mental health services. With its comprehensive approach, "Mental Health and Your Church" serves as an invaluable resource for faith communities looking to better support the mental health and well-being of their members.


The Church Leader's Counseling Resource Book

The Church Leader's Counseling Resource Book

Author: Cynthia Franklin Ph.D.

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Published: 2011-02-01

Total Pages: 526

ISBN-13: 019983153X

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This all-in-one guide is designed to better equip clergy and the church leaders to meet their congregations' needs in a spiritually grounded and scientifically sound manner. Succinct, easy-to-read chapters summarize all a pastor needs to know about a given problem area, including its signs or symptoms, questions to ask, effective helping skills, and, most importantly, when to refer to a mental health professional. Synthesizing what research says about treatment approaches for mental health issues, this user-friendly reference is filled with guidelines, case scenarios, key points to remember, resources for further help, advice on integrating scripture and theology with the best available research, and tips on partnering with others to provide the best possible care for each church member. Each chapter is designed for quick lookup by problem area, empowering church leaders to understand and help meet the challenges facing the children, adults, families, and communities that they serve.


Book Synopsis The Church Leader's Counseling Resource Book by : Cynthia Franklin Ph.D.

Download or read book The Church Leader's Counseling Resource Book written by Cynthia Franklin Ph.D. and published by Oxford University Press. This book was released on 2011-02-01 with total page 526 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This all-in-one guide is designed to better equip clergy and the church leaders to meet their congregations' needs in a spiritually grounded and scientifically sound manner. Succinct, easy-to-read chapters summarize all a pastor needs to know about a given problem area, including its signs or symptoms, questions to ask, effective helping skills, and, most importantly, when to refer to a mental health professional. Synthesizing what research says about treatment approaches for mental health issues, this user-friendly reference is filled with guidelines, case scenarios, key points to remember, resources for further help, advice on integrating scripture and theology with the best available research, and tips on partnering with others to provide the best possible care for each church member. Each chapter is designed for quick lookup by problem area, empowering church leaders to understand and help meet the challenges facing the children, adults, families, and communities that they serve.


Blessed Are the Crazy

Blessed Are the Crazy

Author: Sarah Griffith Lund

Publisher: Chalice Press

Published: 2014-09-30

Total Pages: 130

ISBN-13: 0827203004

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When do you learn that "normal" doesn't include lots of yelling, lots of sleep, lots of beating? In Blessed Are the Crazy: Breaking the Silence about Mental Illness, Family, and Church, Sarah Griffith Lund looks back at her father's battle with bipolar disorder, and the helpless sense of déjà vu as her brother and cousin endure mental illness, as well. With a small group study guide and "Ten Steps for Developing a Mental Health Ministry in Your Congregation," Blessed Are the Crazy is more than memoir-it's a resource for churches and other faith-based groups to provide healing and comfort. Part of The Young Clergy Women Project.


Book Synopsis Blessed Are the Crazy by : Sarah Griffith Lund

Download or read book Blessed Are the Crazy written by Sarah Griffith Lund and published by Chalice Press. This book was released on 2014-09-30 with total page 130 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: When do you learn that "normal" doesn't include lots of yelling, lots of sleep, lots of beating? In Blessed Are the Crazy: Breaking the Silence about Mental Illness, Family, and Church, Sarah Griffith Lund looks back at her father's battle with bipolar disorder, and the helpless sense of déjà vu as her brother and cousin endure mental illness, as well. With a small group study guide and "Ten Steps for Developing a Mental Health Ministry in Your Congregation," Blessed Are the Crazy is more than memoir-it's a resource for churches and other faith-based groups to provide healing and comfort. Part of The Young Clergy Women Project.


The Bible and Mental Health

The Bible and Mental Health

Author: Christopher C.H. Cook

Publisher: SCM Press

Published: 2020-08-30

Total Pages: 195

ISBN-13: 0334059798

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Is it possible to develop such a thing as a biblical theology of mental health? How might we develop a helpful and pastoral use of scripture to explore questions of mental health within a Christian framework? This timely and important book integrates the highest levels of biblical scholarship with theological and pastoral concerns to consider how we use scripture when dealing with mental health issues.


Book Synopsis The Bible and Mental Health by : Christopher C.H. Cook

Download or read book The Bible and Mental Health written by Christopher C.H. Cook and published by SCM Press. This book was released on 2020-08-30 with total page 195 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Is it possible to develop such a thing as a biblical theology of mental health? How might we develop a helpful and pastoral use of scripture to explore questions of mental health within a Christian framework? This timely and important book integrates the highest levels of biblical scholarship with theological and pastoral concerns to consider how we use scripture when dealing with mental health issues.


Out of the Cave

Out of the Cave

Author: Chris Hodges

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Published: 2021-05-25

Total Pages: 266

ISBN-13: 1400221269

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Do you feel guilt and shame about negative thoughts and emotions and your inability to overcome them? Bestselling author and pastor Chris Hodges helps those struggling with depression find liberating solutions by drawing from the life of the prophet Elijah. You might be asking, Should a Christian even be having these struggles? Depression is the number one health issue in the world today, yet those who suffer are still sometimes stigmatized--especially followers of Jesus. Many assume God's peace, power, and protection should prevent us from ever feeling anxious, depressed, and afraid. But the Bible teaches otherwise, particularly in its depiction of the life of the Old Testament prophet Elijah. In Out of the Cave, Chris Hodges uses Elijah's life to show us that everyone is susceptible to depression. Even when we're walking closely with God, we can still stumble and get lost in the wilderness of tangled emotions. But we don't have to stay there, because we serve a God who meets us in the darkness. Out of the Cave helps us remove the stigma of depression and realize we're not alone; understand the ways our temperament and view of God affect the way we handle depression; and learn a comprehensive approach to wellness—mind, body, and soul—from Elijah's journey. With his trademark blend of Bible-based wisdom, practical application, and vulnerability in sharing his personal struggles, Hodges explores the causes of depression we can't change, the contributors we can conquer, and offers transformative hope and spiritual power to help us win the battle.


Book Synopsis Out of the Cave by : Chris Hodges

Download or read book Out of the Cave written by Chris Hodges and published by Thomas Nelson. This book was released on 2021-05-25 with total page 266 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Do you feel guilt and shame about negative thoughts and emotions and your inability to overcome them? Bestselling author and pastor Chris Hodges helps those struggling with depression find liberating solutions by drawing from the life of the prophet Elijah. You might be asking, Should a Christian even be having these struggles? Depression is the number one health issue in the world today, yet those who suffer are still sometimes stigmatized--especially followers of Jesus. Many assume God's peace, power, and protection should prevent us from ever feeling anxious, depressed, and afraid. But the Bible teaches otherwise, particularly in its depiction of the life of the Old Testament prophet Elijah. In Out of the Cave, Chris Hodges uses Elijah's life to show us that everyone is susceptible to depression. Even when we're walking closely with God, we can still stumble and get lost in the wilderness of tangled emotions. But we don't have to stay there, because we serve a God who meets us in the darkness. Out of the Cave helps us remove the stigma of depression and realize we're not alone; understand the ways our temperament and view of God affect the way we handle depression; and learn a comprehensive approach to wellness—mind, body, and soul—from Elijah's journey. With his trademark blend of Bible-based wisdom, practical application, and vulnerability in sharing his personal struggles, Hodges explores the causes of depression we can't change, the contributors we can conquer, and offers transformative hope and spiritual power to help us win the battle.


Hiding in the Pews

Hiding in the Pews

Author: Steve Austin

Publisher: Fortress Press

Published: 2021-09-21

Total Pages: 255

ISBN-13: 1506470491

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In 2012, Steve Austin, then a pastor, nearly died by suicide. His experience launched him on a journey that opened his eyes to the widespread problem of mental illness and how those who live with it are often treated in congregations. He began to wonder: if church folks had talked openly about mental health, therapy, suicide prevention, recovery from abuse, and other difficult issues, would that have changed his story? In Hiding in the Pews, people with mental illness--some of whom might be pastors themselves--will find comfort as they learn they are not alone. Those who know someone with mental illness will gain wisdom about how to be a safe presence. Those who hold the most power in church communities--pastors, board members, and lay leaders--will be challenged and equipped to transform their congregations into places of healing, where it is safe for people to be vulnerable about their suffering. Austin draws on his own experience, as well as on interviews with eighty current and former church leaders and members. Each chapter covers a topic or theme about mental illness and the church and includes practical applications to guide leaders on a journey toward transforming church culture. When a church champions vulnerability and establishes safety within its walls, especially for those who are suffering, the loving power of God heals. Austin offers hope that faith communities will be the first places people think of when they need a sense of safety and belonging.


Book Synopsis Hiding in the Pews by : Steve Austin

Download or read book Hiding in the Pews written by Steve Austin and published by Fortress Press. This book was released on 2021-09-21 with total page 255 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: In 2012, Steve Austin, then a pastor, nearly died by suicide. His experience launched him on a journey that opened his eyes to the widespread problem of mental illness and how those who live with it are often treated in congregations. He began to wonder: if church folks had talked openly about mental health, therapy, suicide prevention, recovery from abuse, and other difficult issues, would that have changed his story? In Hiding in the Pews, people with mental illness--some of whom might be pastors themselves--will find comfort as they learn they are not alone. Those who know someone with mental illness will gain wisdom about how to be a safe presence. Those who hold the most power in church communities--pastors, board members, and lay leaders--will be challenged and equipped to transform their congregations into places of healing, where it is safe for people to be vulnerable about their suffering. Austin draws on his own experience, as well as on interviews with eighty current and former church leaders and members. Each chapter covers a topic or theme about mental illness and the church and includes practical applications to guide leaders on a journey toward transforming church culture. When a church champions vulnerability and establishes safety within its walls, especially for those who are suffering, the loving power of God heals. Austin offers hope that faith communities will be the first places people think of when they need a sense of safety and belonging.