When it comes to mental illness, there is a lot we don’t understand. Even neuroscientists who devote their lives to the study of the brain are still trying to figure out the puzzle. Sadly, Christians are often uninformed or misinformed about mental illness, causing too-frequent judgmental responses. And often these responses are systemic and subconscious, so they go undetected by those who perpetuate them. Any stigma or bias against the experience of another individual causes harm and creates shame and blame.
Learn
I believe as followers of Jesus we can do better. I think change can happen when we start by learning. Educate yourself on the latest research on the brain. Read about the symptoms of mental illnesses and find out more about common medications used to treat depression, anxiety and mood disorders. There are some great resources out there, including the National Alliance for Mental Illness and PsyPost.org.
Listen
The next step is to listen. All the statistics and facts and research in the world do not speak to an individual’s situation nearly as well as their own voice. When a friend shares that he or she is struggling with depression or anxiety, just listen. Then listen more. Then keep listening. It is so tempting to put in your opinion, give advice, or turn the conversation back to yourself. Be present with that person and sit with their story.
Love
Finally, may we truly be the Church towards those who are hurting and demonstrate love. Not love if they get better. Not tough love to teach them a lesson. Actual, real, agape love with no strings and no expectations. Love them for who they are and where they are at. Let them be on their own journey and choose to walk alongside. Make a meal, give a ride, babysit, mow a lawn. Whatever your spiritual gift is, use it to love that person who is suffering. When we love, we embody the Spirit of God just as Christ did while on earth. May it be said of the Church that we demonstrated compassion and love to every person we encountered no matter the struggle.