Almost half of all Australians experience a mental illness in their lives. How can God's people best respond? Short Courses equip ministry staff and church members to care for those facing mental health challenges.

The Mental Health Masterclass provides a theological and practical framework for ministers who want to navigate mental illness and church life with wisdom.

This course enables ministry staff to effectively serve those within their congregations struggling with mental health issues while sustaining the other essential ministries of the church. A theological and practical approach that helps you to understand mental health issues, how the church can help, the limits of your role, and when and how to seek support from mental health professionals.

Cost: $100
For all clergy and ministry team members.

Course content

  1. Thinking theologically about mental health

    • People as bio/psycho/social/spiritual beings

    • Mental health issues as a form of human suffering

    • Mental health and human responsibility

    • Mental health and demon possession


  2. Understanding mental health issues

    • Mental health as a continuum

    • Prevalence

    • Risk and protective factors

    • Classifying mental health concerns


  3. The range of mental health concerns

    • Anxiety disorders

    • Depression

    • Bi-polar disorder

    • Trauma and stress-related disorders

    • Psychotic disorders and schizophrenia

    • Addictions and substance abuse

    • Eating disorders

    • Personality disorders

    • Other mental health issues


  4. Managing suicide risk and responding to mental health crises

    • Understanding suicide

    • How to respond if you suspect someone is suicidal

    • How to respond if you suspect that someone is self-harming

    • How to respond if you suspect someone is having a psychotic episode

    • How to respond if someone is violent/potentially violent


  5. Understanding and engaging with the mental health system in Australia

    • The range of mental health professionals and access/referral

    • Getting help in the community

    • Getting help from a hospital


  6. The role of the church

    • Reducing stigma

    • Offering hope

    • Providing supportive relationships


  7. The role of ministry staff

    • Wisdom in the face of complex needs

    • Involving others and referral

    • Being trauma aware

    • Offering the consolation of the gospel

    • Love and clear boundaries, especially in relation to personality disorders

    • Promoting mental wellbeing

    • Caring for carers


  8. Sustaining yourself in ministry

Who is this course for?

Ministry staff and pastoral care workers

Course presenters

Keith Condie Co-Director, Mental Health & Pastoral Care Institute and
Jackie Stoneman Director of Studies, Mary Andrews College

Time and Location

Wednesday, 3 July 2019
9.30am – 4pm

Anglican Deaconess Ministries
Level 1, St Andrew’s House
464-480 Kent St, Sydney NSW 2000

Note: Lunch will be provided. Please advise of any dietary requirements.

Pricing

$100

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