8 Most frequent asked questions on mental health and faith
It is a new month and this month our Happiness HELPS focus turns spiritual. Spirituality forms part of who we are and when we are threatened by illness it is irrational to expect that our spirituality will not be affected. Many people diagnosed with a psychiatric illness have many questions regarding their faith and mental health. Here are 8 of the most frequent asked questions when it comes to spirituality and mental health.
Is mental illness a sin?
No, it is a treatable illness like any other illness. It, however, may be the result of sinful behaviour; for instance the abuse of drugs. In Luke 13:1-5 Jesus asks if the suffering of the Galileans and those on whom a tower fell was because they were worse sinners than those who did not suffer and His answer was, no.
Is mental illness as a result of a lack of faith?
No. Faith, however, does contribute to the healing process and making sense of your illness.
Does having a mental illness make me a bad Christian?
No, Christians also struggle with mental illnesses. It would appear that Moses (Numbers 11:11-15), Elijah (1 Kings 19:1-9), David (Psalm 13), and many others struggled with emotions similar to depression, anxiety and other mental illnesses. David, however does say, “The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.” (Psalm 34:18-19 (World English Bible).
What does the Bible say about mental illnesses?
Not much; just like it does not have anything to say about cancer, HIV, diabetes or any other illness either. But we do read in Psalm 103:3 & 4: “He forgives all your sins; and heals all your diseases; He redeems your life from the pit…” In Psalm 94:19 we read: “When anxiety was great within me, Your consolations brought joy to my soul.” Even as in the days of Jesus, leprosy was a scourge and people were rejected by the community, but Jesus was a friend to them and healed them.
What will the church think of me or my family if I am receiving treatment?
The Seventh-day Adventist Church recognizes that mental health issues are illnesses just like any other and that it is a treatable illness. Unfortunately there are individuals, however, who may judge you claiming that it is as a result of a lack of faith or because God is punishing you. Remember, though, that Job’s counsellors told him the same, and in the end the LORD was angry with them for what they said (Job 42:7).
Is depression a self-discipline problem?
Self-discipline is important for the Christian, but no amount of self-discipline is going to cure the medical condition.
Are mental health problems a demonic problem?
Not necessarily. Demonic oppression can cause depression, but it is not responsible for every case of mental illness. In the same sense we will not attribute HIV, cancer, heart disease to demonic oppression. However, we do read in Scripture that the boy that was having fits needed to be delivered from a demon possession and the assistance given by the disciples was somewhat lacking (Mark 9:14-29).
Does prayer help for those suffering with mental health issues?
Most definitely, yes. Prayer and a relationship with the LORD is very important in facilitating the healing process. A large number of people who suffer with mental health issues find hope, reassurance, meaning, and resilience through their relationship with God and the prayers of others. However, this does not mean that if you are praying you won’t get ill or that you don’t need medication. Prayer is not a substitute for medical treatment.
