The Unseen Struggle: Pastors’ Reluctance to Seek Help Exposed

A recent study has shed light on a concerning trend in the pastoral community: most pastors are hesitant to seek professional support, highlighting a lingering stigma around getting help. According to the Barna State of the Church research, in partnership with Gloo, 52% of pastors do not currently use professional guidance, such as mentors, coaches, advisers, and counselors, to support them in ministry. The numbers are even more alarming when it comes to mental health support, with only 12% having seen a therapist, 9% a professional counselor, and 3% a marriage counselor.

The Human Factor
Brad Hill, Chief Solutions Officer at Gloo, emphasizes that pastors are human beings who need support, just like everyone else. “I’ve served on elder boards and in governance roles, and I really, really would love to see us better normalize the idea that — [it] turns out your pastor is a human being and needs support,” Hill said. Churches can play a key role in removing the stigma by creating space for pastors to seek help while ensuring confidentiality. Hill recommends bringing in a neutral third party and establishing clear confidentiality policies to protect the pastor’s trust and privacy.

A Call to Action
The study also revealed that pastors face challenges related to job security, income level, and retirement confidence. While 69% of pastors are satisfied with their job security, only 20% are completely confident about retiring when they choose. Churches and pastoral leaders must recognize these struggles and work towards creating a supportive environment that encourages pastors to seek help without fear of judgment or repercussions. By doing so, they can help pastors lead healthier, more sustainable lives and ministries