This begins a series of articles concerning the importance of Mental Health and Christianity, researched and written by Mrs. Andrina Jordan (MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS). For more information about her practice, visit 712 Q.A.C.C. Counseling For The Soul, LLC.
Studies have shown that there is a positive correlation between spirituality and positive mental health. Research tells us that every human being believes in some form of a higher power. This article will focus solely on the God of the Bible, the Most High God of Israel, Jesus Christ, and his faithful followers.
Most Christians today would agree that believing in God offers them a sense of hope, strength, support, and encouragement. Those who actively engage in church service, routine reading of the bible, and fellowship with like-minded believers, tend to gain even greater benefits. Many believers use their spiritual connection with God as a coping mechanism for daily life challenges. All have a connection with God.
“This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; – Hebrew 10:16, KJV.
He has placed his laws in our hearts and minds. You could say that this is our conscience; that small voice in our head that warns us not to do something that we know is wrong or will put us at risk.
The correlation of spirituality on mental health has been found to reduce stress, anxiety, symptoms of depression, and decreased suicidality. Being a part of a church congregation also offers people a sense of belonging, comfort, and social support. Many substance abuse facilities use the 12-Step Program for recovery. This program contains components of spirituality and has been found to be successful in aiding with the discontinued use of substances. The Bible speaks of meditation, a coping skill that many therapists introduce in counseling to reduce stress and anxiety. Meditating on scriptures such as Philippians 4:8 is what therapists would refer to as positive thinking.
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” – Philippians 4:8, KJV
The Bible also speaks of a day of rest:
“…But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:” – Exodus 20:10 KJV. “And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath:” – Mark 2:27 KJV.
Self-care is a key component in maintaining good mental health. Sleep can work wonders for the brain and allows the body to heal physically and mentally, promoting new brain cell growth. Both meditation and sleep aid in calming the mind and body bringing one to a better state of homeostasis.
Religion (a specific set of beliefs, traditions and practices) which is different from spirituality (belief in a higher power) can also have a negative impact on me ntal health. If family members do not have the same beliefs or practice the same religion, it can cause families to feud, disown, or abandon one another.
“…And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.” – Mark 3:25.
“…For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.” – Luke 12:52, KJV
As a result, it can leave an individual feeling lonely, unwanted, unloved, resentful, deeply saddened, and can even disrupt the harmony within a marriage. Some religious beliefs can also cause people to live in a space of guilt from sins they’ve committed due to the rigidness of their thinking. According to research, some religions do not support the idea of receiving mental health services. Therefore, individuals may prolong seeking the help needed and symptoms slowly worsen during that lapse of time.
In conclusion, spirituality promotes more positive effects on mental health overall. It enhances resilience while creating a sense of purpose. It produces positive emotions such as forgiveness of self and others, altruism, gratitude, love, happiness, calmness, etc. It builds healthy character through teaching the fruits of the spirit and how to love your neighbor.
“…But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance:” – Galatians 5:22-23 KJV.
“…Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” – Mark 12:31, KJV.
These particular teachings in the Bible generally develop a productive citizen who is able to establish and maintain healthy relationships with others. Having a relationship with God can create self-value and worth. While also offering a higher sense of security, protection, and hope for something glorious in his Kingdom to come.