We have a Christian calling to heal and to care, including healing and caring for those with mental health problems. Part of that pastoral ministry requires us to mitigate those circumstances which may cause poor mental health and to work to create those conditions which promote good mental health. We are part of a dynamic which sees all things being reconciled, and made new, in Christ (Colossians 1.20, Revelation 21.5).
Good mental health is not just a matter for doctors and psychiatrists. We are all involved, directly or indirectly, wittingly or unwittingly, in matters affecting the mental well-being of others and ourselves. In partnership with mental health professionals and those working for stronger communities, churches can do much to promote mental health.
It is clear that many aspects of church and parish life help create the conditions for good mental health. Parishes can also offer valuable support to those with an existing mental health problem and to their carers. However, there are also many who feel uncertain about how best to help and have requested further support and information in order to feel equipped and resourced to deal with the issues and challenges. This document is a response to this request and is the outcome of the work of a Special Interest Group of the Committee for Social Responsibility (CSR), set up in 2008 to produce a resource for parishes within the Diocese of Chester.
Aims of this resource
The aim of ‘1 in 4’ is to:
• highlight the valuable role of faith communities in promoting mental health,
• reduce fear and stigma, by raising awareness, knowledge and understanding of mental health issues,
• share information and advice about the many parish initiatives that already exist,
• encourage you as a church community to consider what you can do to develop new ways of reaching out to people with mental health needs.
Who this document is for
This document is intended to be used by clergy, youth workers, pastoral workers, welcome and worship teams, sides people, PCC members, leaders of prayer and ministry groups and all those who have a particular interest in mental health issues.
What this document is not
This document is not intended to create clinical expertise. It is presented as a basic guide with links to other sources of information and help. Some parish members may be interested in developing a more specialised ministry for those with mental health problems, for which some form of training would be required. Such training and developments are beyond the scope of this document.