The effects of mental illness on families within faith communities

Abstract

The present study examined the experiences and values of families caring for a mentally ill loved one within the context of a Christian faith community. Participants (n ¼ 5899) in 24 churches representing four Protestant denominations completed a survey describing their family's stresses, strengths, faith practices, and desires for assistance from the congregation. Results showed mental illness in 27% of families, with those families reporting twice as many stressors on average. In addition, families with mental illness scored lower on measures of family strength and faith practices. Analysis of desires for assistance found that help with mental illness was a priority for those families affected by it, but ignored by others in the congregation. These results suggest that mental illness is not only prevalent in church communities, but is accompanied by significant distress that often goes unnoticed. Partnerships between mental health providers and congregations may help to raise awareness in the church community and simultaneously offer assistance to struggling families.

Mental Health Recovery and Quilting: Evaluation of a Grass-Roots Project in a Small, Rural, Australian Christian Church

“…Rogers et al (2012) suggests that a minimal or silent response from a church magnifies a sense of isolation and shame for those in mental health distress. It was apparent to a mental health nurse in the group that an increase in group knowledge about mental health awareness would help to facilitate the carriage of the usual support structures within the church, and would enhance the recovery environment for the young person.…”

“…Many people within the church community would willingly contribute to such efforts, and recipients of such support usually appreciate the supports offered. Rogers et al (2012) notes that practical help and support is a common response offered amongst church members in other church settings toward the care of people with physical health problems.…”

“…Rogers et al (2012) concluded that a majority of families in churches wanted their churches to support them with their mental health issues and they recommended that mental health professionals conduct collaborative outreach mental health services to promote stronger and more meaningful connections for people within their faith communities. The Rogers et al (2012) study promotes the notion that mental health professionals in collaboration with churches can contribute positively to the mental health of communities.…”

“…Individual churches, however well-meaning, are not always adept at caring for church members with mental health problems. Rogers et al (2012) surveyed 24 Protestant churches in the US (n = 5899 church members) and found that although 27% of the respondents had a family member with mental illness, this extremely stressful circumstance was largely ignored by others in their congregation. Rogers et al (2012) concluded that a majority of families in churches wanted their churches to support them with their mental health issues and they recommended that mental health professionals conduct collaborative outreach mental health services to promote stronger and more meaningful connections for people within their faith communities.…”

“…Rogers et al (2012) surveyed 24 Protestant churches in the US (n = 5899 church members) and found that although 27% of the respondents had a family member with mental illness, this extremely stressful circumstance was largely ignored by others in their congregation. Rogers et al (2012) concluded that a majority of families in churches wanted their churches to support them with their mental health issues and they recommended that mental health professionals conduct collaborative outreach mental health services to promote stronger and more meaningful connections for people within their faith communities. The Rogers et al (2012) study promotes the notion that mental health professionals in collaboration with churches can contribute positively to the mental health of communities.…”