Lived Experience, Transparency, Help, and Humility: Four Characteristics of Clergy Responding to Mental and Emotional Problems

Many individuals who experience mental and emotional problems prefer support from clergy instead of formal mental health services. Because clergy are often sought out by those with mental illnesses, it is essential to understand their perspectives about mental and emotional problems and identify the individual characteristics that influence these perspectives. This study utilized qualitative data from a conversation among pastors in an online social networking group to examine the characteristics of clergy who held affirming attitudes toward professional mental health services. Thirty-five pastors participated in the discussion, generating more than 140 comments over 13 days in response to the question: “If the church is where we are to come for healing, how do we handle people who are depressed, suicidal, suffering from PTSD or anxiety?” Thematic analysis was conducted, and results suggest four characteristics common among clergy: personal experiences with mental and emotional problems, transparency in sharing their stories, personal help-seeking, and humility. These four characteristics may influence clergy members’ present-day understanding and responses to mental and emotional problems. Implications for spiritual care professionals and mental health professionals are presented.