Akangjungla
Mental health crisis is prevalent everywhere. It is a grave concern as health professionals are sounding alarm. It is heartrending to observe that much of the misconceptions regarding mental begins with lack of knowledge. In Naga society, one talks openly about mental health illness ‘as long as it refers to somebody else, not from within the family.’ Generally, younger people are experiencing increased levels of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. In Nagaland, a clinical psychologist suggests that with the raising awareness, especially post-pandemic, many people are coming forward seeking help, due to which more professionals are needed in this field to help cater to the rising demands. Considering the programmes and awareness campaigns, noticeably, there are attempts to attain the ‘wellbeing of all members of society without discrimination, harmful stereotypes and stigma in community, family, schools and workplace prevent healthy relationships and social interactions.’
The Church can play an essential role in addressing the mental health crisis. Some might ask, ‘what does a Church have to do with mental health?’ As the prolific writer and psychiatrist, Dr Karl A Menninger has observed, “It is doubtless true that religion has been the world’s psychiatrist throughout the centuries.” The local church can be a strategic base on the forefront of mental health care. The Church as a religious establishment has consistently been associated with the message of healing and compassion. It has established, to all intents and purposes, as a place of sanctuary (refuge) to the people. In various small communities, like the closely-knitted Naga society, the most sought after people for counseling are the faith leaders (pastors), church workers, if not the ‘prayer warriors’, and not necessarily a mental health professional. Solely applying the Christian tool of prayer and fasting, and the value of absolute faith often distort the person needing help in ways that cause impair rather than to heal. And unfortunately, their course and method might not be wholesome.
By virtue of the principles it upholds, churches have a unique prospect to offer support and provide a compassionate atmosphere where people can communicate and express without fear of judgment. The painful truth would be, if any local church speak and preach of healing, yet do not embrace mental health as a central part of their mission. Given that churches and pastors have the advantage of trust, including issues like mental health in the Church ministry plan would be a welcome step towards improving the lives of those battling with the problem/illness. The Church can avail the opportunity of preaching on topics around mental health, create awareness from the Sunday school level to help children grow with the right information and combat stigma and discrimination, partner with mental health professionals to facilitate assistance for people struggling with mental health issues, connect community support groups and empower church workers with counseling training, and educating the congregation to contribute towards creating a caring community, one that heals, care for and gives without any reservation.
Comments can be sent to akangjungla@gmail.com
