“I watched my husband preach and teach about finding peace. I watched him counsel individuals and families who experienced depression and suicide. I saw as he battled it within the walls of our home and went out and acted like it didn’t exist. I observed as it slowly killed him, all the while ministering to others with great passion and ease. Yet, inside he was dying. He thought that if he worked harder, prayed more, spent more time with the Lord, and worked on it in isolation, that he could fix the problem.
Although these were good goals he aspired to, he (we) didn’t understand the importance of admitting it, talking about it, taking advantage of all the outside resources, and practicing what we preached. This led to, and opened up, other secret problems that originated from his inner struggles. I understand this can be difficult to hear, but maybe it will be something that will save your life, your family, and create a culture of compassion within your church.
A Pastor’s Wife Experiencing the Darkness
The issue of mental health and Christians is finally getting some attention. Many pastors struggle with depression. We hear too frequently about a pastor committing suicide. And many wonder how such a tragedy could happen to someone whose life was committed to serving the Lord.
Pastors are often told that they need to stay in good physical health. The message of good physical health does not need to wane.
But pastors also need to guard their mental health. Unfortunately, too many pastors have been unwilling to share their plight. Here are some thoughts I have for pastors.
*You are not alone. In a recent study shows depression among pastors to be higher than that of general populace. Pastors should not think they are the outliers. There are many in this company of fellow strugglers.
*You need not be ashamed. Mental illness is just that – it is an illness. If we have cancer, we freely acknowledge the illness. Pastors should not be ashamed to say they have a mental illness.
*GET HELP! Get trusted recommendations of professionals that can help you. Most of the time, someone will also advise you to see a medical physician to see if there are physiological reasons for your struggle. Others will counsel you about seeing qualified professionals for those struggling with depression or other mental health issues.
*Make the recommended changes. Once struggling pastors get help from professionals, they will be advised about next steps. LISTEN to them. HEED their advice. MAKE the necessary changes.
Sometimes, the answer to an issue is not a longer quiet time, it’s to get help from someone God has gifted in this area. We can’t ignore this issue anymore. Let’s encourage one another, and not be afraid to seek help.
The Kingdom Partnership of Western Iowa has committed in 2022 to hold a mental health conference that will address the issues that affect pastors. Professionals will lead various cell groups, a main speaker, and how to access to Pastor Care from the Kingdom Partnership. Be watching for details.
Dick Creek
Director; The Kingdom Partnership
RDCreek@cox.net
