America is going down a rocky path.
America is currently grappling with what Tim Clinton, president of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC), describes as a “mental health disaster.” He emphasizes that addressing this crisis necessitates solutions rooted in a biblical worldview, beginning within the family unit. Clinton characterizes the situation as a disaster rather than merely a crisis, pointing to statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention which reveal that over 20% of U.S. adults and a similar proportion of youth face serious mental health challenges.
Clinton underscores the pivotal role of faith and family in addressing the mental health epidemic, particularly among young people. He asserts that the disintegration of family structures in modern society is harmful to both the church and the broader culture. Strong marriages and stable families are crucial, he notes, as children from broken homes are especially susceptible to mental health issues.
Effective mental health strategies for children, according to Clinton, hinge on active parental involvement and the support of mentors, Sunday school teachers, and youth pastors. Building and maintaining robust connections with children is essential for their overall success in life. The AACC, the world’s largest Christian counseling organization, emphasizes the integration of faith into mental health services, recognizing that many individuals seeking help want their faith to be part of the healing process.
Clinton acknowledges that while some, like Pastor John MacArthur, may be skeptical about the existence of mental illness, there is a growing understanding of its complexities and the various factors, including biological ones, that contribute to mental health problems. He points out the significant role of neuroscience in understanding these issues and highlights the profound impact that supportive relationships can have, often equating their benefits to those of medication.
The AACC is dedicated to providing thorough training for Christian counselors, blending biblical principles with psychological insights to promote personal, mental, and spiritual well-being. Through its educational programs, such as those offered by Light University, the organization equips caregivers with the tools they need to assist those in distress. Clinton emphasizes the AACC’s commitment to making mental health support accessible, stating, “Asking for help is hard. Finding help shouldn’t be.”