In this profound episode of Why God Why, we address a topic that is both deeply personal and widely misunderstood: "Doesn't the church dismiss mental health?" Alyssa Matz and Amanda D'Angelo guide us through a conversation that bridges the gap between spirituality and psychological well-being, exploring why mental health is often a taboo subject within religious communities.
Joined by seasoned counselors Robyn Englert and Kathy Elliott, this episode delves into the intricate relationship between faith, mental illness, and the church's response. Robyn and Kathy, both deeply entrenched in the intersection of counseling and Christianity, share their insights on the misconceptions and fears that have historically led to the marginalization of mental health issues in religious settings.
Listeners will be invited to consider the importance of distinguishing between sin and wounds, understanding that while sin calls for repentance, wounds require healing and empathy. The discussion also sheds light on the potential for spiritual abuse when mental health is misunderstood or ignored by church leaders.
This episode articulates how churches can better integrate mental health awareness into their ministries, but also be a beacon of hope for those who have felt dismissed or hurt by their faith communities due to their mental health struggles. With recommendations for resources, books, and programs like Celebrate Recovery, Robyn and Kathy equip listeners with tools to foster healing and encourage open, compassionate dialogue about mental health in spiritual environments.
Whether you've experienced church-related hurt, are a faith leader seeking to grow in understanding, or simply someone who cares deeply about the well-being of others, this conversation offers a space for learning, reflection, and the pursuit of a more inclusive and supportive faith community.
Tune in to "Why God Why?" for an episode that not only confronts the tough questions but also offers a path toward reconciliation and hope for a future where faith and mental health walk hand in hand.
Daron Ladson and Ann Ielapi - Why does the church devalue singleness?
Steve Cuss - Why don't I feel God near?
Dr. Vincent Bantu - Which culture owns Christianity?
Steve Nichols and Bob Reeves - Why would a loving God send people to hell?
Darrell Bock - Isn't Christianity escapism?
Drew Dyck - Why isn't my calling more clear?
The Credibility of Christianity - Recap
Dru Johnson - Do Christians really think Genesis is literal?
Jason Cusick - Why does Christianity make us anxious?
Nijay Gupta - Why are Christians so hypocritical?
Brian Lee - Why do churches do more harm than good?
Sasha Hallock - Why Has the Church Stifled Art?
Dr. Russell Moore - Why does it seem Christianity has been co-opted by politics?
Bryan Loritts - Why aren't we more diverse in our churches?
Brittany Dicus - Why do I have to pray? (Honestly, does it even work?)
Linley Ali - Why would I believe in God?
Dr. Steve Pelton - Why are Christians so afraid of Science?
Recap & Discussion - Why Do I Still Follow Jesus? Season Recap with Aaron McGinnis, Amanda D'Angelo, Alyssa Matz, & Peter Englert
Ron Hall - Why Do I Still Follow Jesus? (Suffering, Sadness, & Seasons of Spirituality)
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