5 Things Not to Say to Someone With a Mental Illness

5 Things Not to Say to Someone With a Mental Illness

Even well-meaning people can sometimes place additional burdens on those dealing with mental health issues. Many Christians even have an “illusion of safety” that they feel inoculates them against troubles like mental illness, writes Amy Simpson in her book Troubled Minds: Mental Illness and the Church’s Mission.

Don’t be part of the problem, avoid saying these five things to someone with a mental illness:

• You just need to pray harder.
• Is there sin in your life that you aren’t dealing with?
• Have you tried the (insert XYZ) natural remedy or program?
• Just change your attitude.
• Stop feeling sorry for yourself.

Want to be part of the solution?  Read our article about how churches can help.

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