Reblogged from Sojo.net:
For years the church rejected the entire field of mental health and continuously fought against scientifically and medically proven techniques that implemented counseling, medications, and other helpful therapies. The church attempted to “pray away” problems and encouraged ill-prepared pastors to take on roles they weren’t qualified to perform.
Churches are finally catching up, but they’re still far behind from the rest of society, and many denominations and institutions have inadequate resources for those struggling with disorders, syndromes, sicknesses, disabilities and other mental health issues. For many, the secular options available are far better than those of the church—this needs to change.