Navigating mental health care can feel overwhelming, especially when you want your provider to respect and integrate your Christian beliefs. Between therapy styles, provider expertise, and the stigma that still surrounds faith-based conversations about emotional struggles, it’s easy to feel uncertain about where to begin or how to speak up.

The Communication Gap in Mental Health Care

A recent Gallup–West Health survey found that 75% of Americans want their healthcare providers to address both physical and mental health concerns, yet one-third report never being asked about their mental well‑being. This gap is even wider in faith communities, where many worry that discussing spiritual matters in a clinical setting will be dismissed or misunderstood.

Health Literacy and the Power of Questions

Patients with limited health literacy ask significantly fewer questions during medical visits, on average, about five questions compared to nine among those with higher literacy, hindering shared understanding and optimal care. When you don’t know what to ask, you may miss the chance to clarify treatment goals, understand side effects, or ensure your faith values are honored.

Why the Right Questions Matter

• Builds Trust: Open dialogue fosters a collaborative relationship.
  
• Clarifies Treatment: You learn why a therapy or medication was chosen.
  
• Aligns with Faith: You can explore how spiritual practices and clinical care work together.
  
• Empowers You: Knowing what to ask reduces anxiety and increases engagement.

Empower Yourself with Our Faith‑Centered Guide

To help bridge this gap, CMHI created a free PDF guide—“10 Questions to Ask Your Mental Health Provider.” This resource equips you with a framework to evaluate providers, set clear expectations, and advocate for integrated, spiritually sensitive care. It’s designed for Christians and underserved communities striving for healing that honors both mind and spirit.

Get Your Free Guide

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Subscribe below to receive instant access to our “10 Questions to Ask Your Mental Health Provider” PDF. You’ll also join our community for ongoing faith‑informed resources, blog updates, and event invitations.

[ Subscribe & Download the Guide]

Join CMHI in empowering faith communities to break stigma and pursue holistic wellness.
Pray with us.
Read our blogs.
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Together, we can ensure every believer finds compassionate, Christ‑centered mental health care.

The post Finding Choosing a Mental Health Provider That Honors Your Faith appeared first on CMHI.

Bullying has long been a silent epidemic among teens, often leaving behind emotional wounds that last far longer than any physical scars. With rising concerns around teen anxiety, depression, and suicide, the role of faith communities—especially churches—in creating safe spaces for teens has never been more urgent.

At the Christian Mental Health Initiative (CMHI), we believe that the church can be a healing force, not just through preaching, but by educating, empowering, and equipping youth with the tools to set boundaries and seek help. In this blog, we explore how bullying affects youth and how church curricula across the nation are stepping up to support teen wellness.

The Bullying Crisis Among Teens

According to the CDC’s 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, nearly 1 in 5 high school students reported being bullied on school property, and about 15% were electronically bullied (cyberbullying). The numbers are even more alarming for LGBTQ+ youth and teens from minority backgrounds.

Bullying has been directly linked to:

• Increased risk of depression and anxiety
  
• Poor academic performance
  
• Sleep difficulties
  
• Suicidal thoughts and self-harm
  

Why the Church Has a Role to Play

The church is often one of the first community structures that young people encounter. It holds the power to shape values, identity, relationships, and emotional health.

Scripture reminds us:

“Let all that you do be done in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14 (ESV)
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves…” – Proverbs 31:8 (NIV)

By promoting a culture of empathy, boundaries, and inclusion, churches can be a sanctuary for those hurting and a shield against bullying behavior.

What Faith-Based Curricula Are Doing Right

Several churches and ministries have begun implementing structured, faith-rooted mental health and anti-bullying curricula. These programs do more than teach “right from wrong”—they develop emotional intelligence, healthy conflict resolution, digital responsibility, and Christ-like compassion.

Here are three standout examples:

1. Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries: Youth Series

A comprehensive curriculum that addresses mental wellness, bullying, and self-care through a biblical lens. The series includes videos, guided discussions, and journaling prompts.

2. Fuller Youth Institute: Faith in an Anxious World

This 4-week curriculum helps teens explore anxiety, bullying, and boundary-setting using scripture, storytelling, and practical action steps. It also equips youth leaders to open safe conversations.

3. Orange Curriculum: Social & Emotional Faith Development

Their “XP3 Middle School and High School” tracks now include lessons on respect, empathy, digital boundaries, and peer pressure, rooted in scripture and teen-centered storytelling.

Teaching Boundaries as a Spiritual Practice

One of the most empowering gifts we can offer teens is permission to set boundaries—emotionally, digitally, and spiritually. Churches that teach youth:

• That Jesus also set boundaries (see Mark 1:35-38)
  
• That saying “no” is not unloving, but often holy
  
• That forgiveness doesn’t mean tolerating abuse
  

…are churches that shape whole, resilient young adults.

How CMHI Supports Churches and Youth Leaders

CMHI provides faith-based resources, youth engagement strategies, and educational partnerships that equip churches to tackle difficult conversations with grace and truth. From webinars to curriculum consultation, we’re helping churches transition from bystanders to boundary-builders in the lives of teens.

If your ministry wants to take action, we suggest starting with:

• A Youth Listening Circle to identify concerns
  
• Hosting a mental wellness sermon series
  
• Training youth leaders in trauma-informed care

Does Bullying Take Place in the Church?

Read the CMHI Blog post on “Does Bullying Take Place in the Church?”

Closing Thoughts: Turning Pain into Purpose

No teen should feel unsafe in church, at school, or online. By investing in church curricula that elevate emotional safety, affirm boundaries, and reflect Christ’s love, we plant seeds of healing, hope, and holiness in the next generation.

As Psalm 34:18 reminds us:

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Together, let’s build churches where teens aren’t bullied—they are believed, befriended, and blessed.

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The post From Bullying to Boundaries: Church Supporting Teen Wellness appeared first on CMHI.

Participants collectively spent a total of 31,560 minutes in the meeting, with each person attending for an average of 144 minutes—that’s over two hours of intentional engagement per attendee!

A Faithful Beginning

Dr. Atasha Jordan opened the day with a warm welcome and powerful message: “A Faithful Beginning: Welcoming You to the Journey of Whole-Person Wellness.” In this opening segment, she laid the spiritual foundation for the day, centering the experience on God’s desire for us to thrive in every dimension of life. She encouraged attendees to prepare their hearts for transformation and to engage fully with the journey ahead.

In her first full session, “Living Fully: Embracing the 8 Dimensions of God-Given Wellness,” Dr. Jordan walked us through the biblical and practical components of holistic health — emotional, physical, spiritual, social, intellectual, environmental, financial, and occupational. Her engaging presentation reminded us that caring for all areas of our lives is not only wise but also worshipful.

Holistic and Emotional Health

The symposium then transitioned into exploring the intersection of holistic health and emotional healing. Rachel Ann, a life coach and counselor, led the next session titled “Mind, Body, Spirit: God’s Vision for Holistic Wellbeing.” Through the lens of faith, culture, and clinical insight, she encouraged participants to become grounded in their identities while healing from generational and emotional wounds. Her session emphasized how wholeness requires intentional alignment with God’s truth.

Following Rachel, Toni LaShaun offered a deeply moving testimony in “From Pain to Peace.” She shared how her journey through personal struggles, including singleness and divorce, became a source of strength, inspiration, and purpose through Christ. Her story reminded us that vulnerability is not weakness—it is a doorway to healing.

Brittany Harvey, LMSW, continued the momentum with “Anxiety to Alignment,” a session filled with practical strategies for reducing stress and embracing God’s promises. Drawing from her years of experience as a wellness consultant, Brittany encouraged attendees to reclaim their peace by combining therapeutic tools with faith-based practices.

This emotional health segment concluded with a rich panel discussion titled “Breaking Stigma, Building Strength.” Moderated by Danielle, the panel featured mental health leaders including Dr. Chinwe Erike, Katie Piura, Kyle Spears, Toni LaShaun, and Brittany Harvey. They discussed the urgent need for stigma-free support in churches and shared stories that humanized mental health struggles, inviting attendees to cultivate more compassionate, Christ-centered communities.

Worship and Spiritual Reflection

Worship became a healing practice through music and meditation. Toni LaShaun returned to offer a special worship segment, performing her original song “Strength To Soar.” The moment served as a sacred pause for reflection and praise, bridging the emotional and spiritual spaces of the day.

Next, Cynthia Newland guided attendees through a meditative spiritual practice grounded in Philippians 4:8-9. Her session, “Be Still: Meditating on God’s Word for Inner Renewal,” invited participants to slow down, breathe deeply, and realign their thoughts with divine truth. As a minister, movement specialist, and health coach, Cynthia brought a unique blend of scripture and embodied healing to this powerful moment.

Physical Wellness and Faith

Following a short midday break, the focus turned toward the body. Cynthia Newland returned with an energizing movement session and presentation titled “Caring for the Body: Honoring God Through Physical Wellness.” She reminded us that honoring our bodies is not just about health goals — it’s about worship. With practical tools for daily living and faith-based encouragement, she demonstrated how believers can steward their physical wellness for God’s glory.

Social Health and Community Restoration

In the final major block, speakers turned their attention to the relationships that shape our lives. Pastor Vada Hedgeman opened the session with a deep reflection on isolation and the ways it affects believers emotionally and spiritually. Drawing from both his personal journey and pastoral leadership, he offered insight into how churches can better embrace those feeling disconnected.

Pastor Sadik Aboagye followed with a powerful presentation on Addiction: Its Impact on the Church and Society. He discussed how addiction can erode communities and emphasized the redemptive role the church can play in supporting those in recovery. His biblical insight and lived wisdom offered a path toward grace, accountability, and transformation.

This segment closed with a live Q&A moderated by Vanessa, where attendees asked heartfelt questions and received thoughtful, scripture-centered responses from both pastors. The open dialogue created space for reflection, healing, and practical next steps.

Breakouts and Closing Reflections

As the day came to a close, participants were invited into breakout rooms for prayer, worship, resource sharing, and meaningful conversation. Whether it was in the Virtual Hallway, the Worship Room, or the Mental Health Resources group, each space provided a unique opportunity to connect, reflect, and discern the next steps. Dr. Jordan returned to close out the event with gratitude and encouragement, reminding everyone that wellness is not a one-time goal — it’s a lifelong, Spirit-led journey.

By the Numbers

• 218 unique attendees
• 31,560 minutes of combined participation
• Average attendance time: 144 minutes per person
• Global reach: Participants joined from over 25+ countries and states

Countries & Regions Represented: Jamaica, Australia, Canada, Dominica, Ethiopia, England, Philippines, Egypt, Taiwan, India, Bermuda, Nigeria, United States (including New York, Philadelphia, New Jersey, California, Florida, Wisconsin, Alabama, Mississippi, Atlanta), Kingdom of Eswatini, and more.

CMHI extends heartfelt thanks to the generous sponsors of the 3rd Annual Virtual Mental Health Symposium. Their invaluable support made it possible to reach and uplift countless lives through faith-centered mental health education and meaningful community connection. CMHI is deeply grateful for their partnership and continued commitment to advancing the mission of healing, hope, and wholeness.

What’s Next: Stay Connected with CMHI

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us in creating a sacred space to explore mental health through a Christian lens. But this is just the beginning. You can continue to engage with our mission in the following ways:

Read More Blogs — Discover tools, testimonies, and teachings on integrating faith and mental health: Visit the CMHI Blog

Support the Mission — Every donation helps us expand our resources and reach more hearts: Donate to CMHI

Shop “Jesus + Therapy” Merch — Wear your message proudly and support faith-based healing: Shop Now

Watch the Full Symposium on YouTube, Catch up on any sessions you missed, or share them with friends: Watch Here

Together, we heal. Together, we rise.

Stay in faith,
The CMHI Team

Explore Our Merch

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The Christian Mental Health Initiative (CMHI) is making waves in the faith and mental health community! Last month, Religion News Service (RNS) featured CMHI in a powerful article, recognizing our efforts to bridge the gap between faith and therapy. This groundbreaking event was hosted by the American Psychiatric Association in partnership with CMHI and the church, bringing together experts, faith leaders, and mental health professionals to address the intersection of Christianity and emotional well-being. Dr. Jordan, a key figure in CMHI, played an instrumental role in shedding light on the importance of integrating Jesus and therapy in mental health conversations.

A Step Toward Change: CMHI’s Feature in Religion News Service

CMHI was founded by Dr. Atasha Jordan, a psychiatrist dedicated to dismantling stigmas surrounding mental health in the church. The RNS feature, titled “Treading on Taboos, A Psychiatrist Trains Christians to See the Spiritual Side of Mental Health,” sheds light on CMHI’s mission to help churches and believers embrace mental health as an integral part of their faith journey.

The article details CMHI’s event at Christ Community Church in Philadelphia, where participants discussed how faith, therapy, and professional mental health care can work together. Through CMHI’s free mental health first aid training, churches are now better equipped to recognize signs of distress and connect individuals with the support they need.

Dr. Atasha Jordan’s Inspiring Journey

Dr. Jordan’s personal experiences have shaped the vision of CMHI. Originally from Barbados, she pursued her education at Harvard University and the University of Pennsylvania, where she confronted her mental health challenges. Realizing the lack of mental health discussions within Christian spaces, she launched CMHI during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her story resonates with many believers who struggle with mental health yet fear that seeking therapy conflicts with their faith. CMHI is changing this narrative by reinforcing that Jesus and therapy can go hand in hand.

Jesus & Therapy: A Powerful Combination

Dr. Jordan’s message resonated deeply with many attendees as she reinforced that prayer and professional help are not opposing forces but complementary tools for healing. She highlighted how scripture offers guidance on mental well-being and how therapy can provide structured, evidence-based interventions for those struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma.

By integrating faith and mental health resources, CMHI aims to equip individuals with both spiritual encouragement and practical support. If you or someone you know is struggling, we encourage you to explore our Mental Health Resources Page for trusted support and guidance.

CMHI’s Commitment to Faith-Based Mental Health Awareness

CMHI offers more than just training sessions. The organization hosts annual mental health symposiums, workshops on bipolar disorder, minority maternal mental health, and other critical issues. These initiatives aim to empower church leaders and communities with the knowledge and tools to support mental well-being.

By integrating mental health discussions into faith-based spaces, CMHI is helping believers embrace healing without fear or shame. Through resources and education, we are fostering a culture where mental health is acknowledged, addressed, and supported within Christian communities.

How You Can Get Involved

The national feature in Religion News Service is just the beginning! CMHI invites you to join our mission in breaking the stigma surrounding faith and mental health. Here’s how you can contribute:

Attend Our Events – Stay connected and participate in our upcoming mental health symposiums and training sessions.
Share the Message – Encourage your church and community to talk openly about mental health.
Access Mental Health Resources – Visit our Mental Health Resources Page to explore valuable tools and support systems.

Conclusion

CMHI’s recognition in Religion News Service (RNS) reaffirms our belief that faith and mental health are not opposing forces but essential companions. By embracing both spiritual and professional healing, we can create safe spaces within churches and ensure that no believer suffers in silence.

Let’s continue this movement together. Join CMHI in breaking the stigma and championing mental health within faith communities!

Watch Our YouTube Video:

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The post Religion News Service (RNS) Featured CMHI In A Powerful Article appeared first on CMHI.

As we move forward into 2025, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible progress CMHI made last year in bridging faith and mental health. Our 2024 Annual Report showcases the milestones we’ve achieved—expanding our reach, deepening community connections, and equipping individuals with the tools to navigate mental health challenges through faith and resilience. None of this would have been possible without your unwavering support, and together, we continue to create spaces where mental wellness and spirituality thrive.

2024 Highlights & Achievements

Events Hosted – Hosted several events, including the 2nd Annual Faith, Meds & Therapy Symposium, World Bipolar Day Event, and Minority Maternal Mental Health discussions.
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Training – Over 40 individuals trained in faith-based mental health response.
Global Outreach – Expanded efforts to support churches in Ethiopia, Nigeria, and beyond.
First 5-Figure Grant – Secured $10,000 from the Jack and Jill Foundation to further our mission.
Community Engagement – Strengthened partnerships with local churches, volunteers, and faith leaders to provide accessible mental health resources.

Overcoming Challenges & Looking Ahead

Despite the progress, stigma, accessibility, and cultural barriers continue to challenge faith-based mental health advocacy. As we step into 2025, our vision remains clear—expand MHFA training, build stronger faith-community partnerships, and develop new mental health resources to serve those in need.

We are deeply grateful for our volunteers, donors, and community members who make this work possible. Together, we are building a future where faith and mental wellness go hand in hand.

Get Involved & Stay Connected

Read the Full Annual Report: [Click Here]
Support CMHI’s Mission: [Donate Here]
Join Us for the 3rd Annual Symposium in May 2025: [Join Here]

Thank you for being part of this journey! 

Team CMHI

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In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives. Social media offers a powerful platform for sharing ideas, connecting with communities, and gaining access to valuable resources. At the Christian Mental Health Initiative (CMHI), we recognize the immense potential of social media in spreading awareness and fostering conversations about mental health within a faith-based context. Join us as we embark on a journey of connection, education, and support across various platforms!

Twitter: Engaging in Thought-Provoking Conversations

Twitter, the realm of succinct conversations and rapid information exchange, is where CMHI shares thought-provoking insights, inspirational quotes, and updates on our latest initiatives. Follow us @CMHIConnect to be part of the dialogue around mental health, faith, and holistic well-being.

Instagram: Visual Stories of Hope and Resilience

Next up: Instagram. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and on Instagram, we encapsulate stories of hope, resilience, and faith. Follow @CMHIConnect to experience a visual journey of uplifting messages, community highlights, and awareness campaigns that illuminate the path to mental well-being.

YouTube: Learning and Sharing Through Video

Our YouTube channel, CMHI Connect, is a treasure trove of video content that educates, inspires, and encourages meaningful conversations about mental health. Subscribe to witness insightful talks, webinars, and personal stories that emphasize the connection between faith and mental well-being.

TikTok: Empowering Through Short Form

Short-form content, meets profound impact. On TikTok, we present bite-sized nuggets of wisdom, interactive challenges, and messages that resonate with the young and young-at-heart. Follow us for engaging content that blends entertainment with empowerment.

Pinterest: A Tapestry of Resources and Insights

Pinterest isn’t just about crafting and recipes; it’s also a canvas for mental health insights and self-care resources. Follow our boards at CMHI Connect for a tapestry of articles, infographics, and resources that offer guidance on navigating mental health challenges. As we extend our presence across these platforms, our goal remains constant. We aim to provide a safe and welcoming space where individuals can learn, share, and find solace in the intersection of mental health and faith. Social media isn’t just about likes and follows. It’s about cultivating meaningful connections that can transform lives.    

Embrace the Power of Connection through Social Media

Through social media, CMHI aims to foster an environment where stigma is dismantled, questions are encouraged, and individuals find strength in community. Join us as we embark on this transformative journey by following us on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest. You can also learn more about our many events through social media channels. Together, we can raise our voices, share our stories, and embark on a path of healing and growth. Let’s connect, learn, and support one another as we navigate the complex landscape of mental health through the lens of faith. In a world that often feels fragmented, social media has the power to unite us around shared values, experiences, and aspirations. CMHI’s presence on various platforms allows us to create a virtual sanctuary. Individuals can find encouragement, resources, and a sense of belonging. We invite you to embark on this journey with us – a journey of healing, connection, and empowerment. Let’s navigate the digital realm together, fostering compassion and change, one post at a time. As always, your engagement fuels our mission. Like, comment, share, and tag your friends – together, we can make a difference. Join CMHI on social media, and let’s create a ripple effect of positivity, understanding, and hope.

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The post Connecting Through Social Media: Join CMHI on Various Platforms appeared first on CMHI.