About Sunburnt Souls

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you be a Christian and struggle with mental illness?

Yes! Faith and mental illness are not mutually exclusive. Many faithful believers battle anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. The Bible is full of people who faced deep emotional struggles, like David, Elijah, and Job. Even great Christian leaders like Charles Spurgeon, who suffered from severe depression, and Mother Teresa, who experienced deep spiritual darkness, wrestled with mental struggles while holding firm to their faith.

Having a mental illness does not mean you lack faith—it means you are human. God meets us in our struggles and offers hope, healing, and grace. Read more about faith and mental health here.

How does faith help with mental health struggles?

I know for me, I wouldn’t be here without faith.

Faith provides a foundation of hope, purpose, and resilience during mental health struggles. Through prayer, worship, and Christian community, believers can find strength even in their darkest times.

Studies have also shown that faith-based coping mechanisms can significantly reduce stress and anxiety Find out how.

Is it okay to take medication for mental health as a Christian?

There have been seasons in my life when I’ve taken zero medication, and there have been times when I’ve been on four different prescriptions. Through it all, one truth has remained unchanged—I am loved by Jesus, and I walk in sonship.

For many Christians, the topic of mental health medication can be loaded with unnecessary guilt or even spiritual questioning. But just to be clear: taking medication for a mental health condition is no different from taking insulin for diabetes. Both are about managing health wisely, and both are gifts from God through the wisdom of doctors and medical advancements. This podcast with Christian Psychiatrist, Dr John Warlow, will help.

Does prayer heal mental illness?

Prayer is powerful and essential, and mental illness is a complex reality. Our God is a healer, and while He can work miraculously, and we have seen it happen, he also brings healing through doctors, counsellors, wise community, and daily disciplines that restore mind, body, and soul. Prayer isn’t just a piece of the puzzle—it’s the foundation that invites God’s presence into every step of the journey.

What does the Bible say about anxiety and depression?

The early Church Fathers recognised what we now call melancholia—a deep sorrow or spiritual heaviness—though they often framed it within theological and moral discussions. Evagrius Ponticus (4th century) spoke of acedia, or the "noonday demon," a kind of spiritual sloth or despair that could lead to deep discouragement. John Cassian later expanded on this, warning that unchecked sadness could drain a believer’s spiritual vitality.

Augustine of Hippo wrestled with his own inner turmoil, reflecting on his struggles in Confessions, pointing to God as the ultimate source of rest for a restless soul.

The Bible also acknowledges anxiety and depression throughout its pages. Philippians 4:6-7 urges us to bring our worries to God, promising His peace that surpasses understanding. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that the Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Rather than condemning mental illness, Scripture offers comfort, assurance, and the presence of Christ in our suffering.

The wisdom of both Scripture and the early Church shows us that struggling with mental health does not mean a lack of faith—it means we are human in need of God’s grace. Through prayer, community, and even practical help, God provides a way forward for those facing deep sorrow.

Can a pastor have bipolar disorder?

As a pastor with bipolar disorder, I know firsthand that mental illness does not disqualify someone from ministry.

In fact, it can:
Deepen empathy.
Sharpen reliance on God.
Open doors for raw, honest conversations about faith and struggle.

The idea that a pastor must be free from struggle is a myth. And let’s be real—with the number of prominent pastors who fall into sin while pretending to be holy, I think it’s best to just be open and honest.

I’ve walked this road, and I know the weight of leading while navigating mental health challenges. But I also know God’s goodness is enough.

A pastor with bipolar disorder can lead, love, and serve well—not despite their struggles, but because they have learned to walk humbly with Jesus through them.
Listen to this to hear more.

How do I balance faith and psychology?

Faith and psychology complement each other. While faith provides purpose and spiritual healing, psychology offers tools and strategies for mental well-being. Christian counselling integrates both to support a whole-person approach. Learn more about an awesome faith-based holistic healing centre called life to the full here.

Does mental illness mean I lack faith?

No, it does not. Faith plays into the equation, but it’s not a simple answer.

Some of the strongest believers, from biblical figures to modern Christians, have battled depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. If the prophet Elijah prayed for God to take his life, you are not alone in your struggles. Faith does not exempt us from mental health challenges, but it does give us hope, strength, and a God who walks with us through the darkest valleys

God’s love for you is unwavering, no matter what you face. Faith and mental illness can coexist, and healing—whether through prayer, therapy, or medication—is not a sign of weakness but of wisdom.

Discover a man named Tom who is being used by God mightily, even in the midst of mental ill-health.

How do I practice Christian self-care?

As followers of Christ, we are called to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30).

This means caring for ourselves in a way that honours Him—spiritually, physically, and mentally.

Christian self-care isn’t about indulgence; it’s about stewardship.

When we nurture our well-being, we are better equipped to serve others, without losing ourselves in the process.

What should I do if my church doesn’t support mental health conversations?

If your church hasn’t embraced these discussions yet, start by sharing resources and having honest conversations with leadership.

Creating safe spaces—through support groups, sermon series, or open discussions—helps reduce stigma.

If leadership is hesitant, approach the topic with grace, sharing testimonies and examples from other churches.

Mental health advocacy isn’t a one-time event—it needs to be part of church culture through preaching, pastoral care, and community initiatives.

If resistance remains, seek support from faith-based mental health communities and keep championing the cause in a way that honours both Scripture and well-being.

How does the gospel bring hope to those with mental illness?

The gospel affirms that we are deeply loved, infinitely valued, and never alone. Jesus walked among the broken, offering healing, hope, and restoration. No matter what struggles you face, His grace is always enough (2 Corinthians 12:9). The truth of the gospel speaks directly to mental health, reminding us that our worth isn’t defined by our battles, but by His love.

At Sunburnt Souls, we’re passionate about breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in the church. If you’ve ever wrestled with questions about faith and mental illness, you’re not alone. Our podcast creates a space for raw, real conversations—where struggles are met with grace, and faith is strengthened through honesty. Join us as we explore how Jesus meets us in the mess and leads us toward healing and hope.