5. Wanting to Play It Safe.
Even though the Bible speaks extensively about depression and anxiety, no matter what you say, someone is going to take exception or be offended, so why even go there? It will probably be too controversial and polarizing.
It takes a lot of effort to preach a sermon that integrates our emotional, spiritual and physical lives in a biblically balanced way. Aren’t the pulpit messages to be positive and uplifting? So who wants to be in a “no win” situation?
6. Americans Are Already Over-Medicated.
Using drugs to artificially feel better and avoid the real issues is counterproductive and results in drug abuse and addiction. Even though some people use certain drugs like Valium inappropriately to treat symptoms and not the underlying cause, avoiding all medication results in under-treatment of a medical condition that can be dramatically helped with medications that are not addictive. For those with the medical illness of depression (not just feeling sad), appropriate medication in combination with counseling can be life changing. It takes time.
Many feel that taking any foreign substances into our bodies should be avoided because of the potential of future unknown harmful effects. Some people do not respond to certain anti-depressants or experience unwanted side effects. Using medications during pregnancy or when nursing a baby are legitimate concerns that need to be carefully addressed. At the same time, why are so many willing to ignore the potential dangers of some herbs and supplements simply because they are considered “natural,” which does not guarantee they are necessarily safe or effective? Refusing optimal medical treatment can have serious long term consequences like an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease as a result of atrophy or shrinkage of the brain tissue from depletion of the brain hormones called “neurotransmitters.”
7. Unnecessary Distraction and Diversion.
We don’t talk about it or provide something “in house” because we don’t see it as necessary or relevant to the focus and purpose of our ministry. There are other places people can go to get help. The church should not get distracted and burdened with trying to help people deal with emotional issues. The church is to focus on spiritual issues.
But why not be a resource to fill the void when hurting people outside the church need to know there is a God who loves them and wants to transform their lives? Is this not an opportunity to impact our communities for the kingdom by cultivating a culture of grace where people see themselves as “healing agents” one to another, and then stick with them through the healing journey?
