A Christian's Guide to Mental Illness: Answers to 30 Common Questions

A Mental Health Q&A from a Christian Perspective

After the fall, the world was disordered from structure to chaos-negatively altering the nature of human emotions. Today, we witness its impact as mental health concerns surge and people continue to suffer. How should Christians approach the topic of mental health? What is the most Christlike way to care for those who suffer?

A Christian's Guide to Mental Illness answers 30 commonly asked questions about mental health from a Christian perspective. Intended for caregivers, this accessible resource will equip family, friends, and churches with wisdom for caring for individuals with mental health illnesses. Authors David Murray and Tom Karel use a holistic approach as they share personal stories, professional expertise, and biblical wisdom to tackle difficult questions-ultimately providing hope for the hopeless and rest for the weary.

• Useful for Caregivers of Mental Health Sufferers: Equips family, friends, and church leaders with advice for helping those who suffer from mental illness
• Q&A Format: Each chapter answers a commonly asked question related to mental health
• Accessible: Written for everyday people, this book is concise and easy to understand
• Biographical: Authors David Murray and Tom Karel share stories about their own mental health battles as well as those of others

Read Chapter 1

Authors:

David Murray (PhD, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam) is the senior pastor of First Byron Christian Reformed Church in Byron Center, Michigan. He is also a counselor, a regular speaker at conferences, and the author of Reset and Exploring the Bible. David has taught Old Testament, counseling, and pastoral theology at various seminaries.

Tom Karel (MA, Wheaton College) is a psychologist at Pine Rest, a Christian mental health center in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Tom is involved with Faith Community Outreach, an initiative that connects Christian organizations to serve the faith community. He serves as an elder at the Free Reformed Church.

Endorsements:

"This project answers the important questions, and the personal stories of the authors and their commitment to making this material accessible has brought it all close enough to enhance our wisdom, patience, gentleness, and perseverance. The light on the hill will be a bit brighter because of it."
--Edward T. Welch, Counselor and Faculty Member, Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation; author, I Have a Psychiatric Diagnosis: What Does the Bible Say?

"I believe that this well-written book will help mental health professionals, family members, and those struggling with mental illness. It takes a complex issue and breaks it down into an organized and practical guide of help and healing."
--Bruce Langerak, DO, Internal Medicine, Grand Rapids, Michigan

"In an engaging, practical, and insightful commentary, David Murray and Tom Karel Jr. challenge the Christian community to understand and embrace the struggle of mental illness. As a clinician with more than twenty-five years of experience, I am delighted to have this resource at my fingertips. The authors offer a welcome bridge between faith and clinical applications."
--Emilie DeYoung, mental health clinician; Clinical Director, Winning at Home, Inc.

"When people and their problems get more complex and acute, two equal and opposite reactions are either to withdraw or to rush in without humility, curiosity, or wisdom. Thankfully, David Murray and Tom Karel Jr. have written a primer for pastors, small-group leaders, family, and everyone in between. I am so thankful for this book and how it has the potential to make the church a safe place for all who struggle and seek to find God's grace in the midst of their suffering. I highly recommend this book!"
--Tim S. Lane, President, Institute for Pastoral Care; President, Tim Lane & Associates; author, How People Change and Unstuck

"There are few topics that have garnered as much interest and discussion in our day as mental health and illness. That is why I'm so grateful for this incredibly helpful resource from David Murray and Tom Karel Jr. They have managed to write a succinct book that is both informative and well-researched but brims with humanity, compassion, and understanding. Whatever role you might play, you will find biblical and practical help from two seasoned individuals who are honest about not only the troubles we face but also the hope we have in Christ. This is a book I know I will return to in my care and counsel of others. I trust the same will be true for you, too."
--Jonathan Holmes, Director, Fieldstone Counseling

"is the perfect book for those who have questions about how or whether mental illness has any place in their life as a Christian. David Murray and Tom Karel Jr. walk us through questions and concerns some Christians have wrestled with regarding the field of mental health. They provide answers that are clear, practical, personal, and grounded in their deep faith."
--Mark Eastburg, CEO, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, Grand Rapids, Michigan

"How does Jesus view mental illness? I suspect this book comes about as close to capturing his understanding and compassion as anything I've read. Bringing together a God-centered approach to life with a deep sensitivity to the needs of Christians with mental illness, it is chock-full of practical wisdom and guidance to help the church become a place where such people feel safe, welcome, and supported-a place where the poor in spirit are being blessed."
--Eric L. Johnson, Professor of Christian Psychology, Houston Christian University; author, God and Soul Care: The Therapeutic Resources of the Christian Faith

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