Date

11-13-2025

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Robert Nelson

Keywords

Mental Health, Mental Illness, Faith, Church, Pastors, Faith Community, Religion, Religious Community, Clergy, Priests, Stigma, Overspiritualization, Education

Disciplines

Counseling | Psychology

Abstract

Mental illness remains a growing concern in society, prompting increased focus on the church’s role in offering support. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to explore the beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions of pastors and congregants regarding mental illness and the stigmas associated with it. Sixteen adult participants, ages 31 to 65, from churches in Elyria and Lorain, Ohio, were interviewed through semi-structured questions. Thematic analysis revealed five key themes: stigma, overspiritualization, education and training, collaboration with mental health professionals, and resource accessibility and advocacy needs. Pastors with lived experience of mental illness expressed greater empathy and recognized the church’s limitations, while those without such experience emphasized external referrals. Congregants reported a desire for both spiritual guidance and clinical support, revealing a gap in pastoral preparedness. These findings highlight the need for education, open dialogue, and stronger partnerships between churches and mental health professionals. The study underscores the church’s potential to foster a more compassionate and informed response to mental illness within faith communities.

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