African American Resources
Additional Resources
Psychiatric Illnesses
Psychiatric or mental illnesses
are characterized by changes in thinking, mood or behavior that is accompanied by
significant distress or impaired functioning. Mental illnesses may be triggered by a
variety of factors to include environmental stresses, illness, and chemical imbalances.
But regardless of the trigger all mental functions are mediated by the brain. The brain,
an organ like the liver, kidney, or heart, can be influenced by a variety of factors that
lead to impairments in behavior and psychiatric functioning. Mental illnesses are
treatable, however severe and persistent mental illnesses like schizophrenia, are long
lasting and can seriously impede all aspects of an individuals life. And even with the use
of psychotropic medications, individuals living with a severe and persistent mental
illness may never really be free of symptoms.
Unfortunately,
severe and persistent mental illnesses influence all segments of society to include the
Christian church and African Americans. However, spiritual and religious beliefs can
provide a source of healing and hope, and do not have to operate in opposition to or deter
a person from obtaining assistance for mental health concerns.
Ignoring a symptom does not necessarily mean that the problem will go away, in
fact the problem will many times manifest into other areas of our lives. Our
thoughts, behaviors, and feelings are connected. If we are experiencing feelings of
sadness, anger, or fear, sooner or latter those feelings will spill over into our behavior
and ultimately into our speech. St. Matthew 12:35 states “out of the abundance of the
heart the mouth will speak.” When we are feeling emotionally drained or hurt on the
inside, we will begin to speak and think words that are negative and that will lead to
self-destructive behaviors like substance use, physical abuse and violence. Ignoring symptoms associated with a severe mental
illness can lead to misunderstanding, broken families, hopelessness, and lost potential.
Everyone has a God given purpose for living, having a mental illness does not negate that
fact. With Jesus Christ, there is always help and hope.
Mailing
Information: IGBATTMHO P.O. Box 7432 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Phone: 1-800-216-9015
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