How a Church Should Respond When a Pastor Has Mental Health Problems

https://youtu.be/-b_ehLOR_ts

One in four pastors say they have struggled with mental health issues, and 17% of pastors say it was diagnosed. Given the prevalence of the issue, churches cannot ignore the problem. Silence creates the perception that something is off-limits. Mental illness does not signal a lack of faith any more than contracting cancer signals a lack of faith. Thom and Sam discuss how churches can be helpful to pastors who struggle with mental health problems.

Remove the "taboo" label. Deal with the problem candidly but with compassion.

Do not discount warning signs as someone's personality or quirks.

Offer a clear path for help and seek a professional opinion.

Create a plan based on the severity of the problem. For example, dealing with a moral failure is much different than getting help for ongoing anxiety.

Consider the long-term impact on the pastor and the church.

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