Although mental health therapy is more widely accepted in today’s society, there can still be stigma associated with receiving services for one’s mental health concerns, especially in the Christian church. However, knowing when to make the choice to seek counseling can be relatively simple.
Common situations where counseling can be helpful
Multiple times in life, a person will experience times of adjustment. We may be transitioning from one educational milestone to the next, moving to a new place, changing careers, beginning a new life as a married person, or becoming a parent. I’ve had clients seek help to navigate these stressful experiences. There are times counseling can be for a short period of time to seek calm and clarity in moving forward and managing change.
It is also possible for such stressors to lead to seasons in which a person may experience increased anxiety or depression that falls out of their normal range of functioning. These questions can help assess the situation: Am I having trouble with my daily routine? Am I having difficulty taking care of my basic needs? Do I want to no longer exist or wish I had not been born? Do others notice that I am having difficulty or seeing behavioral change? If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, then it is time to seek help.
It is important to note a person of any age, any background, at any time can experience traumatic events that require professional support to process. On a personal note, I experienced a traumatic car accident which affected my life. I developed Post Traumatic Stress and needed help moving beyond the pain and emotional tragedy that physically affected my daily activities. I can attest to the effectiveness of my profession. Counseling helps us to heal and overcome tragedy.
How should Christians approach mental health counseling?
You may also think, “Well, I know the Wonderful Counselor, Jesus, so why should I need help outside of my relationship with Him?” Valid question for a Christian to ask. It is true that Father God sent us a Helper, a Comforter, in the form of the Holy Spirit. Take note, He also gives us encouragement to engage with others. Notice Proverbs 20:18 says, “Plans are established by seeking advice…” which expresses the importance of wise counsel and good plans. While a seasoned counselor or therapist may not necessarily give “advice,” they will be able to help a client make plans and establish treatment goals for their personal growth or healing from traumatic events.
With all of this in mind, I would like to ask you, is it time for you to reach out? Do you want to establish goals and move forward, or move in a different direction in your life? If so, please seek help. We all need to talk sometime.
KyUMH provides mental health counseling services for youth and families
Central Kentucky:
Mending Point Behavioral Health - (859) 354-6821
Western Kentucky:
Mary Kendall Community Services - (270) 683-3723 x 2101
