The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society and the Medical Foundation of Chattanooga are reaching out to local faith leaders who may have members in their congregations who are facing mental health challenges. This week churches in the Chattanooga-area will be receiving “Mental Health: A Guide for Faith Leaders” with hopes it will assist in assist in helping those situations. The guide was developed by the American Psychiatric Association.
Because religion and spirituality often play a role in healing, people experiencing mental health concerns often turn first to a faith leader, said officials. From a public-health perspective, faith community leaders are gatekeepers or “first responders” when individuals and families face mental health or substance use problems. In that role they can help dispel misunderstandings, reduce stigma associated with mental illness and treatment, and facilitate access to treatment for those in need, said officials.
“Working to foster respectful, collaborative relationships between physicians and faith community leaders will lead to improved quality of care for individuals facing mental health challenges,” said Dr. J. Eugene Huffstutter, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society president. “There are several mental health centers in the area that can be utilized to assist these individuals and we are working diligently to expand these services to meet the needs of our diverse population."
Foundation President Mark Brzezienski, MD said, “This guide provides information to help faith leaders work with members of their congregations and their families who are facing mental health challenges. Its goal is to help faith leaders understand more about mental health, mental illness, and treatment, and help break down the barriers that prevent people from seeking the care they need.”
The guide can also be found at the Medical Society’s Website at www.chattmd.org.