Mental health struggles affect people from every walk of life, including pastors, ministry leaders, and faithful followers of Christ. Yet many Christians still wrestle with the misconception that strong faith should eliminate emotional pain, anxiety, depression, trauma, or suffering.

In this episode of Words of Life, our Biblical Justice Roundtable continues with an honest and hope-filled conversation about mental health, shame, vulnerability, counseling, and the vital role the Church can play in creating safe places for healing.

Host Chris Benjamin is joined by Dr. Ian Mudge, Major Sandra Pawar, Hilary DeJarnett, and Sheena Evans as they explore why so many people hide their struggles, how shame thrives in isolation, and why healing often begins when we share our stories within trusted community.

DIAL 988 for the emotional crisis line

The Salvation Army Pathway of Hope
Pathway of Hope

Freedom Collective Anti-human trafficking
Anti-Human Trafficking Resources

National Human Trafficking Hotline
888-373-7888

Therapist Finder

Recommended Reading:

Biblical Justice

• The Good News About Injustice – Gary Haugen
• Generous Justice – Timothy Keller

Poverty & Pathway of Hope

• Bridges Out of Poverty – Ruby K. Payne, Philip DeVol, and Terie Dreussi Smith
• When Helping Hurts – Steve Corbett & Brian Fikkert

Human Trafficking

• Girls Like Us – Rachel Lloyd
• The Locust Effect – Gary Haugen & Victor Boutros
• Ending Slavery – Kevin Bales

Mental Health, Trauma & Recovery

• The Body Keeps the Score – Bessel van der Kolk

Refugees & Welcoming the Stranger

• More Than Just a Refugee – Sandra Pawar