Step Four: Mental Health Ministry Communications and Groups

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Communications take place across the church: in the main weekly worship event, in small groups, online and in print. Positive, supportive communications about mental health from the pastor or church leader in the main weekly gathering effectively gives church members permission to talk mental health needs in small groups.

Small groups are where significant relationships are formed, and the main way mental health support will be provided. Small groups may be church-based (youth group, adult Bible studies) or issue-based (Alcoholics Anonymous, bipolar disorder support, NAMI FaithNet, etc).

Research

Lifeway Research Study: Acute Mental Illness and Christian Faith, page 37 and page 38 (communications and support groups)

Study on the effectiveness of principled groups (topic-focused or directed groups).

Study on the links between vulnerability to depression, suicide and hopelessness

Resources from Key Ministry Blogs

Mental Health Communications

Preaching It From the Pulpit

Time to Change the Light Bulb

Key Tips for Making a Mental Health Testimony Video

Small Groups

Online Community - Component of a Mental Health Inclusion Strategy?

Time to Change the Light Bulb

Mental Health Ministry Trends

Read the Stories

We believe it is vital for pastors and ministry leaders to read and hear the of children and adults with the full range of mental health conditions and their families. Stories, both good and bad, help churches better understand how to most effectively welcome and minister to and with people of all ages who experience mental illness and their families. Click here to read.

We also welcome you to share your story.

 

Video Training

Small groups are the place where churches can effectively provide mental health ministry. Dr. G addresses some important points to successfully mobilize your church by building and maintaining relationships in small groups.

Churches interested in mental health ministry should define the ‘ministry win.’ Speaking openly about the reality of mental illness and making meaningful connections with families that will enhance spiritual growth are two components of mental health ministry win.

Small groups are where the practical helps of mental health ministry are provided. Meeting practical needs builds relationships and often opens the door for sharing the gospel.