IN THE NAME OF JESUS

How can the pain of stigma be reduced?  How can the good in those of us with lived experience be recognized and affirmed? We need to have caring people to build us up. And followers of Christ are among the best individuals to make this happen because they have Jesus as their example.

 

HOW CAN CHRISTIANS HELP PEOPLE LIKE US HEAL IN THE FOLLOWING SITUATIONS?

WE ARE LOOKED DOWN ON

“In fact, even the hairs on your head are all numbered. Do not be afraid; you are more valuable than many sparrows.” (Luke 12:7)

  • Take some time with us, listening to things we want to share.
  • Help us see the good in ourselves.
  • Remind us of how God sees everyone of us as worthy individuals.
  • Note how Jesus healed many who had been considered unworthy by the world.

WE ARE NOT UNDERSTOOD

Making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding. (Proverbs 2:2)

  • When listening to us, do so with an attentive and caring spirit.
  • How would Jesus listen? Probably quietly, using eye contact.
  • Show that you’re trying to understand by reflecting back to us what you hear us saying.
  • Try to put yourself in our shoes.

OUR TRUTHS ARE NOT BELIEVED

A false witness will perish, But the man who listens to the truth will speak forever.

(Proverbs 21:28)

  • Imagine having something very important to tell and having no one believe you.
  • Everyone has a right to have their story heard by open-minded people.
  • There may at times be reasons to doubt us because of the nature of our mental health, but that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t be heard.
  • Take heart. Even Jesus was not believed by his brothers who had known him for thirty years. (John 7:5)
  • What would the world be like today if no one had believed Jesus?

WE ARE SHUNNED, REJECTED, EXCLUDED

Why Lord, do you reject me and hide your face from me? (Psalm 88:14)

  • These are some of the most hurtful and unfair situations to experience and can do a lot of damage to our self-esteem and confidence.
  • As followers of Christ, try to adopt his spirit as you meet people with mental health challenges.
  • Jesus even accepted the loathed tax collectors. Had dinner with them.
  • Remember how Jesus responded to the prostitute, the lepers, and the outcasts?

marja