Message Big Idea

Conversations can help us understand the many facets of a tough topic.

Icebreaker

Can you share a story of a time when you should have asked for help but didn’t? What happened as a result of not asking for help?

Opening Thought

Mental illness will affect 1 in 5 Americans at some point this year, and yet it’s still stigmatized. What kinds of stigma have you seen around mental illness? Have you ever fallen victim to implicit or explicit stigma by either not getting help or by being afraid to encourage someone else to get help?

Bible Discussion

1. Read Psalm 34, what stands out to you?
2. Re-read Psalm 34:18, what action does God take on behalf of those hurting?
3. Compare God’s actions with the attitude we often display around mental illness. Where could we improve?

Life Application

4. Watch the interview between Jamie Tworkowski and Dave Ferguson. (LINK) What are your initial thoughts?
5. Jamie talks about how mental health is just as important as physical health, yet it isn’t treated as such. If something goes wrong or becomes difficult, it’s often treated as if it’s the person’s ‘fault’. How have you treated your mental health in comparison to your physical health?
6. One key to promoting good mental health is self-care. Self-care is about rest, restoration, joy, and health – what are things help you recharge? What have you found to be important?
7. Jamie says that the best way to help a struggling friend is with a balance of honesty and compassion. Honesty means asking questions even if it’s awkward, hard, and vulnerable, while compassion means helping the person know that they are loved. That balance is vital, but which one comes more naturally to you? Which one is harder?

Challenge

Spend some time praying for yourself or someone else who is struggling with a mental health challenge. Pray that they will get the help they need this week. If it is you, make a plan to find a resource that will help you. If it is for a friend, begin by asking for their input and offer them resources for help.

For helpful resources near you contact your Community Pastor, or visit twloha.com/find-help for some local options.