May is Mental Health Awareness Month
Struggles with mental health are far more common than many of us realize, and help is more accessible than we often think. In our churches and communities, there are people quietly carrying burdens like anxiety, depression, grief, or burnout. Some are unsure what they’re experiencing. Others recognize the struggle but feel stuck, uncertain, or even afraid to take the next step.
The good news is that there is hope, and there are practical ways forward.
What Are Common Mental Health Struggles and When Should You Get Help?
Mental health challenges can take many forms. Some of the most common include anxiety, depression, chronic stress, trauma-related struggles, and relational difficulties. These can show up in ways that are easy to overlook at first:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, worry, or emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Increased irritability or withdrawal from others
- Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with daily responsibilities
Everyone has difficult days, but when these patterns persist for weeks, begin to interfere with daily life, or affect relationships and responsibilities, it may be time to seek help. Another important indicator is when someone feels “stuck”or unable to move forward despite their best efforts.
What Keeps People from Seeking Help?
Even when people recognize they need support, several obstacles can stand in the way:
- Fear and uncertainty. Many people don’t know what to expect from counseling or worry about being judged. Questions like “Will this actually help?” or “What will people think?” can be paralyzing.
- Stigma. Despite growing awareness, mental health still carries stigma in some communities—including faith communities. Some may feel they “should” be able to handle things on their own or worry that struggling reflects a lack of faith.
- Accessibility and cost. For those in rural areas or with limited financial resources, finding affordable, nearby care can feel overwhelming.
- Not knowing where to start. The process of finding a counselor, understanding insurance, or choosing between options can feel complicated and discouraging.
These obstacles are real, but they are not insurmountable. In fact, many people find that once they take the first step, the process is far more approachable than they expected.
Helpful Resources and Practical Next Steps
If you or someone you care about is considering seeking help, here are some accessible and trusted resources:
- Psychology Today. Their online directory allows you to filter counselors by location, specialty, insurance, faith background, and telehealth availability. This can be especially helpful for those in rural areas who may benefit from virtual sessions.
- National Institute of Mental Health. Provides reliable, research-based information on mental health conditions, treatments, and how to seek help. It’s a great starting point for understanding what you or a loved one may be experiencing.
- Rural Minds. Specifically focused on mental health in rural communities, offering education, resources, and support tailored to unique challenges like isolation and limited access to care.
- Listening to others share their experiences can normalize struggles and provide practical insights.
- A few accessible and impactful reads include:
- The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. Explores rising anxiety among younger generations and offers guidance for families.
- When Faith Meets Psychology by Aaron J. Bellridge. Bridges mental health understanding with a biblical and spiritual perspective.
- Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller. Helps readers understand relationship patterns through attachment theory.
What to Expect When You Take the First Step
Reaching out for help may feel intimidating, but the process is often simple. The first session with a counselor is typically focused on getting to know you—your story, your concerns, and your goals. It’s not about having all the answers; it’s about beginning a conversation. Over time, counseling can help you better understand your thoughts and emotions, develop practical coping strategies, and experience greater clarity and peace.
Mental health struggles can feel isolating, but no one is meant to walk through them alone. Whether you are personally struggling or walking alongside someone who is, taking a step toward help can be life-changing.
As people of faith, we are reminded that caring for our mental and emotional well-being is not separate from our spiritual lives—it is part of how we steward the lives God has given us.
If you’re unsure where to begin, start small. Have a conversation. Explore a resource. Reach out for help. That first step may feel difficult—but it could also be the beginning of something hopeful.
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Additional Resources
This article was updated 5/11/2026 to include additional resources recommended by members of the LCMC community:
- 988 Lifeline - The National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers phone, text, and chat support if your or someone you know is in crisis.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) - Offers information, programs, support groups, and more.
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) - Offers suicide prevention resources.
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