[Report] From Stigma to Support: How Mental Health Care for Missionaries Is Evolving Worldwide

In recent years, many American churches have made strides in addressing the long-standing stigma surrounding mental health care. But as we expand our view to the global stage, a pressing question arises: Has this transformative shift reached the farthest corners of the world where missionaries are laboring tirelessly?

For missionaries, mental health challenges such as depression, panic attacks, and chronic anxiety can be particularly daunting. The very nature of their work—dealing with culture shock, trauma, and sometimes persecution—makes them uniquely vulnerable. Compounding this vulnerability is the often limited access to mental health resources in the regions where they serve.

The High Stakes of Missionary Mental Health

Missionaries face an intense pressure to uphold their roles and responsibilities despite personal struggles. A survey conducted by Global Trellis revealed that just over half of missionaries are concerned that their mental health issues could jeopardize their work. This is a significant concern given that emotional and mental health struggles were identified as top concerns among the respondents.

Amy Young, founder of Global Trellis and a former missionary, emphasizes the importance of normalizing discussions around mental health. “We help people have language to talk about things. So, normalizing rest, normalizing growth, and just normalizing change,” she notes. This approach aims to create an environment where missionaries feel less isolated and more supported.

The Struggle to Access Mental Health Support

Research underscores that missionaries’ stress levels can be double to triple those of the average American, with potential consequences for their health and effectiveness. Despite the progress made in some circles, many missionaries still face significant barriers to accessing mental health care. In regions with limited services, finding qualified professionals can be nearly impossible.

Sending organizations have recognized this issue and are taking steps to address it. Some are advising missionaries to include mental health care in their fundraising efforts and are hiring trained counselors to provide support. This proactive approach seeks to integrate mental health care into the fabric of missionary work, making it a standard rather than an exception.

Penny Phillips, a former missionary with Wycliffe Bible Translators, observed a shift in attitudes toward counseling. “There used to be a strong belief that if you are really right with the Lord, you shouldn’t need counseling; you have the Holy Spirit,” she explains. This perception has changed, and there is now greater acceptance of counseling as a valuable resource.

The Importance of a Holistic Approach

Organizations like the Southern Baptist Convention’s International Mission Board (IMB) are adopting holistic approaches to member care. Chris Martin, IMB’s director of member care, highlights the importance of focusing on the overall well-being of missionaries. This includes not only addressing psychological needs but also providing spiritual, emotional, and relational support.

IMB’s five-member care teams, including both clinically trained professionals and pastoral care staff, offer a comprehensive support system for missionaries. Martin emphasizes the value of routine contact and the integration of care across different aspects of missionaries’ lives.

Similarly, Antioch Missions International provides pastoral oversight and encourages missionaries to budget for mental health care. Connie Dunn, who advocates for missionaries’ children, underscores the importance of addressing mental health challenges early and providing support tailored to the unique context of the mission field.

The Cultural and Institutional Challenges

Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Missionaries often fear that disclosing mental health struggles might lead to negative repercussions, such as being deemed unfit for their roles. Catherine Allison, a former missionary in Malawi, notes that even well-intentioned support structures can inadvertently contribute to a culture of distrust and secrecy.

The Global Trellis survey revealed that missionaries experience a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation. The fear of losing their roles or support can exacerbate feelings of isolation and hinder their ability to seek help.

Moving Forward: A Call for Continued Support

As the global church continues to grapple with mental health issues among missionaries, it is crucial to foster environments of trust and support. Missionary care must evolve to address not only the physical and logistical needs but also the emotional and psychological challenges that come with serving in often difficult contexts.

Counseling and mental health care are not signs of weakness but of courage and resilience. They are essential for maintaining the well-being of those who dedicate their lives to spreading the message of Christ. By continuing to break down barriers, challenge stigma, and integrate mental health support into missionary care, we can ensure that missionaries are not only effective in their work but also thrive personally and spiritually.

In conclusion, while significant strides have been made in addressing mental health within American churches, the journey to extend these advancements to global missions is ongoing. By prioritizing mental health care and creating supportive environments, the global church can better equip missionaries to fulfill their calling and make a lasting impact on the world.