There has been an alarming increase in the rate of suicides, emotionally induced sickness, violence and failed relationships in business, social, intimate and other environments. Many people have been battling exceptional stress and an emerging sense of hopelessness that too often seems unbearable.
The term psycho-spiritual is one that combines the two words- psychological and spiritual. The psychological stresses of life tend to precede the decision to seek spiritual resolve that is believed to be beyond our personal control. Psycho –spiritual studies (while still in infancy) indicate that an intersection of psychological treatment with spiritual intervention can produce significantly favorable outcomes. For example, a recent study conducted by Kelly M. Trevino concluded that: "positive religious coping was associated with positive outcomes, including greater self-esteem and spirituality. Spiritual struggle was associated with negative outcomes, such as poorer quality of life, higher levels of HIV symptoms, and higher levels of depressive symptoms.” [1]
... There was a twenty six year old deacon of a growing, progressive church who was known for his flirtatious mannerisms. This married deacon displayed an questionable attraction to the younger girls, but the members just viewed him as friendly. One day, it was revealed that he had sexual relations with a young teen in a youth group. While the church was being divided about whether he should be arrested, his wife brought him up on charges regarding his own daughter.
The instances of reported sexual assault among congregations has been increasing and many Pastors admit that they are at a loss regarding how to address it. At the same time, there are those in the church who use these reports to stir up strife, gossip and contention that has proven to be highly destructive and quite taxing on the leadership.
It is my belief that the faith community should consider the psycho-spiritual influences rather than just the spiritual as they seek tangible solutions to sexual assault. I also believe that this approach should be used to address issues such as bullying and other traumatic practices. The Scriptures even suggest that a renewing of the mind is required for individual transformation that rises above conforming to destructive worldly behaviors. [Romans 12:1]
It is no secret that there has been a reluctance from the mental health community to partner with the faith community in order to help those who are troubled. There has also been a great avoidance of engaging mental health professionals within church settings by many pastors and ministry leaders. I am of the opinion that this mutual territorialism has worked to the detriment of those who are suffering from psycho-spiritual issues.
Fortunately experts in both arenas are conceding that a more holistic approach to helping the deep seeded pain and suffering of others is needed. There are areas of human development that are simply better understood by mental health professionals. Likewise, faith practitioners have a much better grasp of the spiritual nuances and influences that impact the way we address our psychological concerns. Perhaps we would all benefit in recognizing, for example, that depression is not merely a mental illness anymore than sexual assault is only a sin.
These excerpts are taken from the book "Beware of Wolves in the Church" by Dr. Margaret Jamal. This Book is available from Amazon.com.
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