What does the Bible say about mental health?
Mental health is a common topic in today’s world. As a Christian or even someone who is simply curious, you may be wondering what the Bible says about mental health.
Specifically called “struggles”, as mental health is a newer construct. The Bible doesn’t specifically name conditions as we know them, like anxiety and depression, but even people of Biblical times had their struggles.
The Israelites viewed the issues we know now as mental health as issues of the whole body. They viewed the body as a whole, not individual parts, like in today’s world where mental health is viewed as a brain problem, not a whole body problem. The emotions we feel are an essential part of life. Your feelings are valid and you should not feel shame for them.
Biblical figures who had mental health struggles
The Bible shows us no one is immune to the struggles of mental health. These figures and stories were included so God could show us we are not alone. We, as believers, should also remember He will one day wipe away our tears in heaven.
Elijah — Elijah was a favored prophet of God. We can also infer he struggled with depression and possibly anxiety. He was also quite possibly suicidal at one point. This is showcased when he asks God to kill him. (1 Kings 19:4)
David — King David, slayer of Goliath and author of many Psalms, struggled with depression. Even in the depths of his despair, he praised God. He recognized that even when we are at our lowest, God is with us. (Psalm 139:7-12)
Job — The book of Job is all about suffering. The poetry he wrote definitely showcases someone struggling with depression. (Job 36:16-20)
Jeremiah — Jeremiah was another major prophet of the Old Testament. He had a lifelong struggle with what can be described as depression. He was also the author of the book of Lamentations. He wrote of how he cried until no more tears could come. (Lamentations 2:10)
Seeing these big names from the Bible reminds us that we are not alone in our mental health struggles. Struggling with mental health also doesn’t make you any less of a Christian or person.
Is it okay to be a Christian and go to therapy?
‘Without good direction, people lose their way; the more wise counsel you follow, the better your chances.” (Proverbs 11:14 MSG)
Yes! It is absolutely okay to be a Christian and go to therapy. Christians should not buy into the idea that prayer alone will help you in your mental health struggles. God literally tells us to seek the counsel of those who are wise. Who better to seek than a mental health professional for mental health issues?
Reaching out for help can not only help you, but it can also help others you come in contact with in your journey of faith. Being open about your mental health can also help break the stigma surrounding it. God can offer divine healing directly, or he can send healing through others. Someone He could help heal us through could be a professional like a Christian counselor.
Verses to strengthen you in your mental health struggles
“Is anyone crying for help? God is listening, ready to rescue you.” (Psalm 34:17 MSG)
We weren’t meant to be burdened with mental health struggles; however, when man rebelled, consequences came.
Verses to help soothe anxiety
1 Peter 5:7
Philippians 4:6-7
Matthew 6:34
Isaiah 41:10
Verses to help soothe depression
Psalm 23:4
Matthew 11:28-29
1 Peter 5:10
Psalm 34:17-18
Verses to help you cope with eating disorders
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Genesis 1:27
Psalm 139:13-16
1 Samuel 16:7
If you’re looking for more help or reassurance that you’re not alone, we can assist you in finding the community you need in our mental health resources. You may also be interested in our series, Shattered: Hope When It Hurts.
Centerpoint Church is ready to walk with you on your faith journey
At Centerpoint, our community believes in purpose and passion, and we would love to walk with you on your journey in finding yours. You can also find out what our community’s purpose and passion are all about by checking out some of the past sermons we’ve posted on our website.
Do you want to grow in your faith, or are you simply curious about who this Jesus guy is? You’re not alone. We encourage you to listen to our podcast series online and welcome you to come to one of our Sunday morning services in Valrico, Florida.