Minute for Mission: Mental Health Awareness Week begins

October 1, 2024

The first week in October has been designated as Mental Illness Awareness Week since 1990. People of faith, especially pastors, are especially important to those who live with mental health concerns. Christian clergy have often been identified as “frontline mental health workers” since it has been found that as many as 25% of people who seek treatment turn to their pastor. Faith leaders can provide referrals and encouragement to their church members who need mental health services.

It is always important for church members and faith leaders to be aware of mental health practitioners and support groups in their communities, and to be familiar with online resources. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website (nami.org/home) offers many ways to learn more and get involved.  NAMI also has a specialized resource for people of faith called FaithNet (nami.org/get-involved/nami-faithnet). This is an interfaith resource network of NAMI members, friends, clergy and congregations of all faith traditions who wish to encourage faith communities who are welcoming and supportive of people and families living with mental illness. Those who visit the site and get involved in local and national efforts can exchange information, tools and other resources that will help educate and inspire faith communities about mental illness and the vital role spirituality plays in recovery for many.

All congregations, presbyteries and synods can become better informed about mental illness, and to be equipped to respond to and minister with those who have mental health concerns within their worshiping communities. Printed resources, classes, sermons and links in newsletters and websites can be used to communicate that mental illness and well-being are of great concern and to encourage church members to turn to their community of faith for assistance.

Kathy Riley; Associate for Emotional and Spiritual Care; Presbyterian Disaster Assistance; Compassion, Peace & Justice

Today’s Focus: Mental Health Awareness Week begins

Let us join in prayer for:

PC(USA) Agencies’ Staff
Adam Slutzky, Directory, Project Delivery, Strategic Planning & Execution, Board of Pensions 
Ashley Smalley-Ray, VP, Director of Compliance, Presbyterian Foundation 

Let us pray

God of grace, remind us that you call us to care for our siblings in Christ, to stand with them and offer comfort in times of need. Help us see the face of Christ in everyone we encounter and to be a blessing in their lives. Amen.