Why Do Some Christians Hesitate to Seek Counseling?

Why Do Some Christians Hesitate to Seek Counseling?

For many Christians, the decision to seek Christian counseling or therapy comes with hesitation. Even though emotional health is a vital part of life, the stigma around mental health support and depression counseling in faith communities remains strong. This blog explores why that stigma exists and how faith and therapy can work together to bring healing.

Dear valued reader,

Have you ever given any thought as to why some Christians hesitate to seek Christian counseling for themselves?

If you look closely enough, a stigma connected to mental health challenges as it pertains specifically to Christians can be found.  Many see Christianity and Christian counseling for mental health support as 2 different fields with no connection between them.

Fun facts:

National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) reported the 1 in 5 adults in the United States some form of mental health support each year.  That would boil down to 43.8 million people or just under 19% of the population.

64% of people in the United States identify themselves as Christian.  It could be stated that mental health support at some point will impact on this population at some point in time.

Many Christians turn to their church for support, finding guidance and support this way.  But in many churches, a stigma still surrounds how mental health challenges are perceived.

Why then is there stigma connected to mental health support in Christianity?

This has brought a lot of thought and with-it misconceptions connected to these two subjects.

1. Mental Illness is a Sign of Weakness

Instead of mental health being identified as a legitimate condition that could cause people to struggle, it could be viewed as a character flaw, weakness, or lack of spiritual discipline. Christians facing emotional pain may feel judged rather than supported by their church community.

2. You Should Just Surrender It to God

The idea of praying away mental health challenges still exists in many circles. A person with a serious medical condition would not be expected to handle it without medical care. Yet, when it comes to emotional pain, some still feel that faith alone should suffice. But Christian counseling or depression counseling can be an answer more to prayer than a lack of faith.

3. God is Testing You?

Some believers may feel that God is intentionally allowing emotional suffering as a test of faith. This belief can lead to shame or spiritual confusion. Faith-based therapy and conversations with a mental health therapist can help separate harmful theology from the truth of God's love.

4. Feeling Like a Bad Christian

All Christians experience sadness, doubt, and pain. Even Jesus grieved. Emotional struggle is not a reflection of spiritual failure. Christian counseling offers a space to talk through those feelings with a trusted therapist who respects your faith.

Some Christians feel that their beliefs should be enough, and that Christian counseling is unnecessary.

Some Christians may feel they are doing something wrong under God if they need another source besides Him.     Christians may feel guilty admitting that help is needed outside of their faith.  Seeking this type of support has been seen by some Christians as a lack in faith and a "weak prayer life."    Another way to look at this could be that God loves his children and wants them to have peace.   That He provides for all needs in the form of a resource available to use through Christian counseling.

There are hurdles that a Christian may experience that could cause them to be hesitant in looking into Christian counseling for themselves.

Take these for example:

5. I Can Pray My Problems Away

Prayer is essential, but it’s not meant to replace support. We're not meant to handle everything alone. A therapist or counselor can walk alongside you while you seek God in your healing journey.

6. I Need to Look Strong

There's pressure in Christian communities to 'have it all together.' But healing begins with honesty. Therapy helps break down the myth that strength means silence. Vulnerability often leads to connection.

7. Friends and Family Are Enough

Loved ones offer comfort, but sometimes we need outside perspective. A mental health therapist brings training, objectivity, and spiritual sensitivity that friends or family might not provide.

8. Is Counseling in Conflict with Faith?

Some wonder if Christian counseling is compatible with Scripture. But the Bible encourages seeking wise counsel. Verses like Isaiah 9:6, Proverbs 11:14, 13:10, and 15:22 affirm the value of advisors and counselors in guiding our steps.

Isaiah 9:6

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.   And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Counselor here is Hebrew that translates to "to advise, consult, give counsel, purpose, devise, plan.  This is the definition of a counselor in modern times.

Proverbs 11:14

"For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisors."

Proverbs 13:10

"Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. "

Proverbs 15:22

"Without consultation, plans are frustrating. But with many counselors, they succeed."

Ready to talk to someone who honors both your story and your faith?
Schedule a free consultation at https://www.hungryheartmentalhealth.com