In a powerful conversation with Dr. Steve Grcevich on the Key Ministry Podcast, Jesslyn McCutcheon shares her deeply personal journey of living with bipolar disorder and following God’s call to advocate for others facing similar struggles. Her story is not just about overcoming a diagnosis — it’s about turning suffering into purpose and creating a ministry that brings healing, hope, and the love of Christ to others.
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Quick Links
Fighting Goliath: Slaying the Giant of Bipolar Disorder by Jesslyn McCutcheon
Fighting Goliath: A Story of Faith, Mental Health, and Advocacy
From Resistance to Calling: The Birth of a Ministry
A Nudge From God
- Jesslyn resisted her call to mental health ministry for years.
- A convicting question from her pastor — “What does the bloodstained cross mean to you and what are you going to do about it?” — ignited her sense of mission.
A Testimony That Transformed
- After sharing her full story at a ladies’ prayer group, the response was overwhelming.
- The Holy Spirit moved powerfully, confirming that her mission was to support others with bipolar disorder.
Living With Bipolar: A Journey Through Darkness
The Diagnosis and Impact
- Jesslyn spent years misdiagnosed before being officially diagnosed with Bipolar I.
- She experienced profound depression, making simple tasks like brushing her teeth seem impossible.
The Church’s Role — What Helped
- A caring pastor visited her during her lowest point, sitting with her for hours.
- Acts of kindness — like prayers and meals left on the porch — provided hope and dignity.
- Community proved to be everything: “That day made the world of difference.”
The Power of Presence and Prayer
Invisible Illness, Real Pain
- Mental illness, often unseen, needs to be treated with the same seriousness as physical illness.
- Prayer and community support were vital when Jesslyn couldn’t pray for herself.
A Healing That Took Time
- Jesslyn underwent multiple ECT treatments when medications failed.
- Her journey included multiple neck surgeries, which ironically provided the stillness needed to grow spiritually and launch her ministry.
Writing Through the Pain: “Fighting Goliath” the Book
A Testimony in Print
- Jesslyn’s book, Fighting Goliath, is a raw and faith-filled account of living with bipolar disorder.
- It includes personal reflections and journal entries from her mother during the darkest seasons.
Why It Matters
- The book offers solidarity and hope: “Someone who lives with this illness is living a very fulfilled life.”
Transforming the Church’s Response to Mental Illness
What Not to Say
- “Just have more faith.”
- “It’s because of sin.”
- Discouraging medication or treatment.
What to Do Instead
- View mental illness as a legitimate health issue.
- Walk alongside people in their pain without judgment.
- Offer resources, prayer, and safe spaces for open conversation.
From Shame to Support: The Church’s Awakening
- After Jesslyn shared her story:
- Her church’s perception shifted.
- People felt seen, heard, and supported.
- She could finally “breathe” and be the person God created her to be.
Fighting Goliath for Mental Illness: The Nonprofit
Mission and Ministry
- Provides free coaching for women living with bipolar disorder.
- Offers educational workshops, faith-based support, and resources.
- Encourages community building through storytelling and shared experience.
What Makes It Unique
- Grounded in Scripture.
- Led by lived experience.
- Focused on faith + mental health integration.
A Call to Action for the Church
What Churches Can Do Right Now
- Start mental health support groups (Fresh Hope, Grace Alliance, Anchor International).
- Equip pastors and leaders with practical resources.
- Be a consistent, safe, and welcoming presence for struggling families.
Final Words of Hope
- Jesslyn’s life stands as a testament to God’s power to redeem pain and use it for His glory. Her message is simple yet profound:
- “God didn’t take this away, and that’s okay — because it keeps me grounded in Him.”
Get Connected
Nonprofit: Fighting Goliath for Mental Illness — a new 501(c)(3) supporting women through faith and practical care.
Book: Fighting Goliath: Slaying the Giant of Bipolar Disorder — available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Hope Books.
Website & Contact: jesslynmccutchen.com