In a recent article in the Toronto Star it said that, according to CAMH the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, while 72% of Canadians would discuss with others a diagnosis of cancer and 68% would talk about a family member having diabetes only 50% would disclose that a family member has mental illness. Also, according to CAMH, “almost one half (49%) of those who feel they have suffered from depression or anxiety have never gone to see a doctor about this problem.”
Shame and stigma are big factors in mental illness and I feel that the church can play a role in helping people deal with that reality. As part of our Lenten experience this year we are offering three evenings on the topic of Mental Health. Tonight, our first topic is Depression. There will be a panel of folks from the congregation to talk about their own experience as well as a mental health therapist to share her expertise as to resources and advocacy. Next week we will have as our topic – Suicide. Do you know that mental illness is deadlier than a car crash? On the average there are 2500 motor-vehicle-related deaths a year, but “almost 4000 Canadians die by suicide” according to CAMH. The third week we will talk about “Family Dynamics when there is Mental Illness in the Family.”
I think this is such an important conversation to have in order to try and reduce the shame and judgement that surrounds mental illness. As one friend said, “With any other medical condition we seek help and treatment but with mental illness we keep it to ourselves.” Health and wholeness is, I believe, that desire of God for all people. If we can do anything to support people in finding wholeness I am for it.
Have you had experience with mental illness in your family? Is it something you talk about easily? What role do you think faith and spirituality play in Mental Health?
