Scott Mehl interviews Steve Midgley, an expert in mental health and its intersection with the Gospel. They discuss the concept of mental health, definitions of normality and abnormality, the Christian perspective on mental health diagnoses, the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and spiritual health, the church's role in supporting individuals with mental health issues, the importance of long-term care, and the connection between mental health struggles and sin.
Active listening and thoughtful questioning are essential when engaging with someone struggling with mental health.
Mental health struggles are complex and can be influenced by external factors, physiological responses, and the condition of the heart.
Understanding mental health struggles requires humility, recognizing the role of sin and offering hope through the transformative power of the gospel.
Deep dives
Importance of Listening and Asking Questions
When engaging with someone struggling with mental health, it is crucial to take the time to listen and ask thoughtful questions. This helps to foster a deeper understanding of the individual's experience and shows genuine care and concern.
Recognizing the Complexity of Mental Health Struggles
Mental health struggles stem from a variety of factors, including external circumstances, the body's physiological responses, and the condition of the heart. It is essential to acknowledge this complexity and avoid oversimplifying or minimizing the challenges individuals face.
Addressing the Role of Sin and Idolatry
Part of understanding mental health struggles involves recognizing the role of sin in our lives and the effects of idolatry. This requires humility, as we navigate conversations about the fallenness of our hearts, while providing hope and pointing to the transformative power of the gospel.
Creating a Safe and Welcoming Church Environment
To be a supportive church community, it is vital to acknowledge the presence of mental health struggles, openly discuss them, and create an atmosphere of compassion, understanding, and acceptance. This includes sharing personal stories, investing in education and resources, and engaging in ongoing dialogue and care.
Resources for Equipping Individuals in the Church
Various resources can aid in equipping individuals to provide effective support to those struggling with mental health. These include CCEF's mini books, which offer concise insights on different struggles, Mike Emlet's book 'Descriptions and Prescriptions,' and Ed Welch's books on caring relationships. Additionally, biographies and personal stories can provide valuable perspectives and encouragement.
Scott Mehl interviews Steve Midgley about how mental health and the Gospel intersect.
Follow The Messy Podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0lRJWiGZfCStBnme6xbnmk?si=qez0LslXQ462CfN73xZiYA&dl_branch=1
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-messy-podcast/id1587365184
More info at: https://lovingmessypeople.com
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode