Week 1 — The Problem of Mental Illness

Prevalence of mental illness in general and underserved populations

The history and development of mental illness diagnosis and treatment

An overview of common mental health conditions, prevalence in underserved communities and biblical perspectives

A historical overview of the beliefs and theories about what causes mental illness including psychodynamic, biological, behavioral, social determinants and demon possession. 

The history of mental health treatment including asylum treatment, de-institutionalization, mental health policy and advocacy

The history and issues of pharmacological treatment of mental health conditions.

The history of the church in mental health treatment, early church advocates and how mental health treatment became a pastoral discipline.

Call to action, steps and suggestions for ministries to become or enhance their mental health ministries. 

 This course includes a final capstone project designed to help you apply behavioral health support principles in real ministry settings. You will choose one of three project options:

1. Provide support to someone facing a behavioral health challenge
2. Conduct a behavioral health awareness survey or interview
3. Develop a behavioral health support initiative for your church or ministry

You are encouraged to select your project early — ideally within the first two weeks — so you can begin gathering information and preparing your final submission.

Each project will include a 4-6 page reflection, report or ministry plan summarizing the activities of your selected project. You are encouraged to select your project early — ideally within the first two weeks — so you can begin gathering information, building relationships, and preparing your final submission.