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Let's Talk about Religion and Mental Health
More than ever before, mental health is a significant issue in the lives of individuals, families, and communities among “every nation, kindred, tongue and people” (1 Ne. 19:17). Let’s Talk about Religion and Mental Health—written by Daniel K Judd, a professor of religion who is trained as a psychologist—is a brief introduction to this complex subject and focuses specifically on the relationships between mental health and religious belief and practice.
Drawing from doctrinal teachings, scientific evidence, and examples from Church history and scripture, this book examines how individuals may experience a variety of mental health concerns, including depression and anxiety. It also discusses how we can meaningfully address these concerns in our own lives and in the lives of those we love and serve. In analyzing these issues, Judd focuses particularly on the people and teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and he relates promising findings on how a true understanding of God’s love and grace can offer hope and relief to those facing the challenges of mental illness. This book is based on the doctrinal foundation that God is our Father, He loves us, and He has provided the means to find comfort, hope, and healing. As we humbly and diligently press forward, recognizing the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ and following inspired guidance from prophets and capable counselors and physicians, we can find the answers and peace we seek.
Drawing from doctrinal teachings, scientific evidence, and examples from Church history and scripture, this book examines how individuals may experience a variety of mental health concerns, including depression and anxiety. It also discusses how we can meaningfully address these concerns in our own lives and in the lives of those we love and serve. In analyzing these issues, Judd focuses particularly on the people and teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and he relates promising findings on how a true understanding of God’s love and grace can offer hope and relief to those facing the challenges of mental illness. This book is based on the doctrinal foundation that God is our Father, He loves us, and He has provided the means to find comfort, hope, and healing. As we humbly and diligently press forward, recognizing the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ and following inspired guidance from prophets and capable counselors and physicians, we can find the answers and peace we seek.
151 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2021
23 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 8, 2021
Great balance between faith and psychology. Lots of good information in a short read.
April 4, 2022
Two of my favorite things to talk about are religion and mental health, so I gladly accepted the invitation extended by this title haha! This was a nice concise look at how clinical work and spiritual work can come together to help those who are religious (specifically members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) and struggling with, or helping a loved one with, mental health.
That being said, I don’t think I’m the target audience for this book. The audience for this seems to be 1. Leaders who are seeking to help those in their organizations who are struggling with their mental health 2. People who are new to learning about mental health/have been taught to be skeptical of psychology, therapy, etc. or who are resistant to professional help. I am very much not in the “pray your way out of depression” crowd, but I know that there are people who feel that way. For that reason, I think it’s fantastic reading for any religious person, regardless of their mental health journey.
I found the examples of incredible Saints—modern day and Biblical—who seem to have worked through mental illness to be the highlight of the book. Mental illness is nothing to feel guilt or shame about, just as you wouldn’t feel guilty for having the flu. The condition of your mental health is not a reflection of your goodness nor your worth. You are worth any work it takes to find healing and strength. So many spiritual and clinical tools are available to take care of that health—we can use them all!
That being said, I don’t think I’m the target audience for this book. The audience for this seems to be 1. Leaders who are seeking to help those in their organizations who are struggling with their mental health 2. People who are new to learning about mental health/have been taught to be skeptical of psychology, therapy, etc. or who are resistant to professional help. I am very much not in the “pray your way out of depression” crowd, but I know that there are people who feel that way. For that reason, I think it’s fantastic reading for any religious person, regardless of their mental health journey.
I found the examples of incredible Saints—modern day and Biblical—who seem to have worked through mental illness to be the highlight of the book. Mental illness is nothing to feel guilt or shame about, just as you wouldn’t feel guilty for having the flu. The condition of your mental health is not a reflection of your goodness nor your worth. You are worth any work it takes to find healing and strength. So many spiritual and clinical tools are available to take care of that health—we can use them all!
December 30, 2021
Well researched look into the interplay between religion and mental health and how the gospel can be part of improving our mental health, but also the need for additional help when facing mental health challenges.
June 25, 2023
Five hundred stars
This book is so needed. The author expertly, professionally, and faithfully discusses the various causes, afflictions and manifestations of mental illness in our day as especially concerning members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and other Christian faiths. If you or anyone you know has been touched by mental illness or struggle in this life, this book is for you.
This book is so needed. The author expertly, professionally, and faithfully discusses the various causes, afflictions and manifestations of mental illness in our day as especially concerning members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and other Christian faiths. If you or anyone you know has been touched by mental illness or struggle in this life, this book is for you.
July 3, 2022
Even Martin Luther suffered from mental illness, so...
November 21, 2022
This is a helpful little book, reminding us about the reality of mental health challenges and how religion can actually help, specifically the Atonement of Jesus Christ. That's not to say that medication and doctors are not also sometimes needed, but Jesus Christ has suffered all things and can heal and comfort and bless those who turn to Him. Our trials can help us grow, if we let them. This book helped me have greater understanding and compassion for these types of challenges, as well as a greater appreciation for the power of Jesus Christ and His Atonement. Here are some great quotes:
"Progress is being made, but identifying the origins and cures of mental and emotional disorders has been, and continues to be, one of the great challenges facing the human family (p. 2)."
"God is our Father, He loves us, and because we are 'subject to all manner of infirmities in body and mind' (Mosiah 2:11), He has provided a means to 'heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease' (Matt. 10:1, p. 2)."
"I learned of my inability to overcome my physical afflictions and emotional burdens alone, which allowed me to discover the love of God; the merits, mercy, and grace of Jesus Christ; and a thirst for knowledge, both sacred and secular (p. 3)."
"Research supports the conclusion that Latter-day Saints who are striving to live their lives consistent with the teachings of the Savior and His servants experience greater well-being, increased marital and family stability, less delinquency, less depression, less anxiety, and less substance abuse than many of those who are not (p. 4)."
"Misunderstanding and misapplying the doctrine, principles, practices, and beliefs of the restored gospel can contribute to emotional and mental instability (p. 5)."
"'Members of the Church should seek out and share only credible, reliable, and factual sources of information' (p. 5)."
"The 'good news' is that the Atonement of Jesus Christ reconciles the hopeful expectations of the Creation with the oftentimes disappointing and even tragic realities of the Fall... We must also remember that the fullness of the blessings we seek through the Atonement of Christ will not be realized until after we are resurrected (p. 6)."
"I believe our Heavenly Father wants us to understand and to exercise both faith and reason as companion principles to our pursuit of truth and peace (p. 6)."
"'Good inspiration is based on good information' (p. 7)."
"Because distorted ideas (counterfeits) can be found in the writings of science as well as in religious belief and practice, I believe it is vital for us to learn how to discern truth from error as we attempt to understand the relationship between religion and mental health (p. 8)."
"'A virtue when pressed to the extreme may turn into a vice. Unreasonable devotion to an ideal, without considering the practical application of it, ruins the ideal itself' (Boyd K. Packer, p. 8)."
"'By proving contrarieties, truth is made manifest' (Joseph Smith, p. 8)."
"The principles of faith and reason... are complementary and mutually sustaining and help define one another (p. 9)."
"'Faithfulness is not foolishness or fanaticism. Rather, it is trusting and placing our confidence in Jesus Christ as our Savior, on His name, and in His promises' (David A. Bednar, p. 10)."
"Elder Holland's personal account illustrates that the Lord allows even one of the most faithful among us--even one of the Lord's Apostles--to experience mental distress and emotional affliction (p. 13)."
"'When the nervous system is once broken down the patient is too often a wreck for life. No class of diseases resist so stubbornly the efforts of the physician as nervous diseases (p. 14).'"
"President [George Albert] Smith's journals indicate that he suffered most every day of his adult life... from physical affliction and mental distress. The challenges [he] faced and the afflictions he endured were certainly a part of what identified him as one of 'the noble and great ones who were chosen in the beginning to be rulers in the Church of God' (D&C 138:55, p. 15)."
"'The bitter experience through which you are going is but designed for your purification and uplifting and qualification for an extended life work' (p. 16)."
"Depression can be an experience God allows for the qualification and purification of those who suffer (p. 16)."
"'Jesus wept'... Sorrow, sadness, and tears are attributes of God--characteristics to be emulated and embraced and not pathologized (p. 17)."
"If Adam and Even had not partaken of the fruit of the tree of knowledge and good and evil and remained in the Garden of Eden, they would have had 'no joy, for they knew no misery' (2 Ne. 2:23, p. 19)."
"'These thy brethren; they are the workmanship of mind own hands, and I gave unto them their knowledge.... gave I unto man his agency... and also given commandment, that they should love one another, and that they should choose me, their Father' (Moses 7:32-33, p. 20)."
"'God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain' (Rev. 21:4 p. 20)."
"The phrase 'I am like a broken vessel' is particularly descriptive of the feelings of those who suffer with depression. These individuals often describe their lives as once having meaning and purpose, but their experience with depression includes feeling useless and unwanted (p. 21)."
"'Despair cometh because of iniquity' (Moro. 10:22, p. 22)."
"'Some anxiety and depression is caused by physical disorders, but much of it is not a pain of the body but of the spirit. Spiritual pain resulting from guilt can be replaced with peace of mind' (Boyd K. Packer, p. 23)."
"The philosophical, cultural, and therapeutic shift in emphasis from sin to sickness is a recent phenomenon, but the discussion has ancient origins... 'Neither this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him' (John 9:1-3, p. 24)."
"'Too many people want to sin and call it psychology' (Jeffrey R. Holland, p. 24)."
"'Most mistakes can be settled between us and the Lord, and that should be done speedily... Restoring what you cannot restore, healing the would you cannot heal, fixing that which you broke and you cannot fix is the very purpose of the atonement of Christ' (Boyd K. Packer, p. 25)."
"Each one of us has spiritual, physical, and emotional weaknesses and afflictions that are beyond our ability to understand or to heal... These afflictions, int he words of Abinadi, can all be 'swallowed up in Christ' (Mosiah 16:8, p. 26)."
"'We simply have to stop judging others and replace judgmental thoughts and feelings with a heart full of love of God and His children' (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, p. 28)."
"Clinical research suggests that blaming ourselves and blaming others... are both related to a wise variety of mental health concerns (p. 29)."
"It appears that Hannah's despair was 'swept away' at least in part, because of her faith in the promise given to her by the Lord through one of His authorized servants (p. 32)."
"The stories of President George Albert Smith, Job, and Hannah are representative of good and faithful people across time and around the world who have loved and served God, loved their families and neighbors, and yet have done so while suffering from feelings of sorrow and despair (p. 33)."
"Similar to the different expressions of depression, the severity of anxiety ranges on a spectrum from the feelings of anxiousness we all experience to the anxiety that is debilitating (p. 34)."
"Both anxiety and fear can be normal and protective parts of the human experience (p. 35)."
"Most feelings of anxiousness are associated with specific life events that are short-term and become manageable as life progresses. Some forms of anxiousness have also been demonstrated to 'enhance motivation and achievement' (p. 35)."
"My first experience with understanding grace came during the beginning of my mission... my mission president... told me 'grace, by definition, is undeserved' (p. 38)."
"In many situations, exact obedience can lead to miracles, but in other circumstances, obsessive obedience becomes a manifestation of what the Book of Mormon prophet Jacob described as 'looking beyond the mark' (Jacob 4:14, p. 39)."
"'On our own we cannot earn the kingdom of God--no matter what we do... those works--as good as they may be--are hollow unless they are accompanied by a complete dependence on Christ' (M. Russell Ballard, p. 39)."
"'I almost fasted myself to death.'... Luther warned that those who practiced fasting beyond its intended purpose (as he had) would 'simply ruin their health and drive themselves mad' (p. 42)."
"'Satan has somehow managed to make covenants and commandments seem like curses and condemnations. For some he has turned the ideals and inspiration of the gospel into self-loathing and misery-making' (p. 42)."
"'Salvation cannot be bought with the currency of obedience; it is purchased by the blood of the Son of God. Our obedience to God's commandments comes as a natural outgrowth of our endless love and gratitude for the goodness of God' (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, p. 44)."
"The redemptive and enabling power of the grace of Christ allows us to be forgiven of our sins, transform our weakness into strength, and receive the peace we cannot obtain through our own righteousness, no matter how faithful and obedient we are (p. 45)."
"'God and man are at work together in the salvation of the human soul. The real question is not whether we are saved by grace or by works. The real questions are these: In whom do I trust? On whom do I rely?' (Robert Millet, p. 47)"
"Some Latter-day Saints become 'so preoccupied with performing good works' that they forget the importance of having a 'complete dependence on Christ' (M. Russell Ballard, p. 48)."
"Life, by divine design, is intended to be difficult (p. 51)."
"Some clinicians and scholars in our day... believe religious belief and practice are 'in many respects equivalent to irrational thinking and emotional disturbance... The less religious people are, the more emotionally healthy they will be.' In comparison to the people they serve, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals are 'more than twice as likely to claim no religion' (p. 52)."
"Ben's affliction with schizophrenia is being consecrated for his gain and for the gain and good of his family and friends (p. 64)."
"Having an inspired understanding of the character of God and the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can lead to emotional healing (p. 65)."
"'Lucifer said he would guarantee salvation for his spirit brothers and sisters. He promised salvation without excellence, without effort, without hard work, without individual responsibility. That is the lie he promulgated... That so-called short-cut to salvation captivated many gullible and lazy spirits. They wanted something for nothing' (Robert J. Matthews, p. 66)."
"Understanding the true nature of God and our divine relationship with Him is a 'potent antidepressant' (p. 72)."
"Perhaps one of the greatest lessons of life is to learn to love as He loved and to strive to help our families and others to do the same (p. 74)."
"The leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have never condoned suicide for any reason, but... prophets past and present have addressed the issue with mercy and grace... the origins of mental illness and emotional suffering can't always be explained as an act of freewill for which the individual is responsible (p. 76)."
"We must be aware some forms of mental illness and physical disability are outside the bounds of our agency (p. 78)."
"'The spirit and the body are the soul of man' (p. 80)."
"Healing can come through priesthood power and personal and prophetic revelation, as well as through clinical intervention (p. 81)."
"'It is one thing to know that Jesus Christ came to earth to die for us. But we also need to appreciate that the Lord desires, through His Atonement and by the power of the Holy Ghost, to live in us--not only to direct us but also to empower us' (David A. Bednar, p. 82)."
"'For many, the infirmity of depression is painful or permanently disabling. Those who suffer this circumstance should remember that our Savior experienced this kind of pain also and that, through His Atonement, He offers the strength to bear it' (Dallin H. Oaks, p. 82)."
"'Seek the advice of reputable people with certified training, professional skills, and good values... Prayerfully and responsibly consider the counsel they give and the solutions they prescribe. If you had appendicitis, God would expect you to seek a priesthood blessing and get the best medical care available. So too with emotional disorders. Our Father in Heaven expects us to use all of the marvelous gifts He has provided in this glorious dispensation' (Jeffrey R. Holland, p. 82)."
"'It is a wonderful thing to be faithful, but a much greater thing to be both faithful and competent' (Richard L. Evans, p. 84)."
"Some of the best outcomes I have observed have been when patient, therapist, and Church leaders all work together to address the needs of the individual or family (p. 87)."
"Above all else, we can be grateful for an almighty and all-loving God, who loves His children and who sent His Son to redeem us from our fallen state... 'Instead of being swept along in the anxiety and fear... rely on the assurances of a loving Heavenly Father' (Dallin H. Oaks, p. 91)."
"In response to the Savior's invitation, 'all the multitude did go forth with their sick and their afflicted, and their lame, and with their blind, and with their dumb, and with all them that were afflicted in any manner, and he did heal them every one' (3 Ne. 17:9, p. 92)."
"'Whenever a man has a true witness in his heart of the living reality of the Lord Jesus Christ all else will come together as it should' (Gordon B. Hinckley, p. 93)."
"People's experiences with mental illness are rarely the same (p. 94)."
"Alyssa is an example of the Lord's promise that He will 'ease the burdens which are put upon our shoulders.' She also exemplifies one who is following the Savior's direction to 'stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions' (Mosiah 24:14, p. 95)."
"'Talk, I will listen. Ask, I will help. Cry, I will comfort. Always' (p. 97)."
"'What is the source of such moral and spiritual power, and how do we obtain it? The source is God. Our access to that power is through our covenants with Him' (D. Todd Christofferson, p. 97)."
"Being in a covenant relationship with God is much different than seeing our relationship with Him as a contract... Striving to keep the covenants we make, most importantly to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ and to keep His commandments, allows the enabling power of His Atonement to heal our minds and hearts. And sometimes keeping the covenants we have made with God means that we do less and not more (p. 98)."
"'Turn everything over to his counselors and take the needed break and follow the doctor's orders, including using medication if prescribed' (p. 99)."
"'We simply don't have control over all the variables--conditions of a fallen world, including a body and mind that are moving toward death' (p. 100)."
"Sometimes, going the second mile is what the Lord asks of us, but other times, true discipleship means going only one mile, not two (p. 101)."
"The 'good part' was doing less and not more (p. 102)."
"Research studies and clinical observations alike identify 'perceived burdensomeness and failed belongingness' as two of the most common reasons why people take their own lives (p. 103)."
"'Remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer... that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds... his hail and his mighty storm... it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo' (Hel. 5:12, p. 105)."
"While we do need to be cautious of simplistic answers that distract us from real problems and solutions, profound answers to complex problems can sometimes be simpler than we may suppose (p. 105)."
"'The simpleness, the easiness of the gospel is such that it causes people to perish because they can't receive it' (Neal A. Maxwell, p. 105)."
"'Feast upon the words of Christ... the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do' (2 Ne. 32:5, p. 107)."
"One of the prophetic resources Janice credits with helping her through these difficult days was a general conference address given by President Ezra Taft Benson in 1986 entitled 'Do Not Despair.' The article includes the following principles for building a Christ-filled foundation: repentance, prayer, service, work, health, reading, blessings, fasting, friends, music, endurance, goals (p. 108)."
"'The mountains shall depart and the hills be removed, but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed' (3 Ne. 22:10, p. 108)."
"The Lord has promised that if we are true to the covenants we have made with Him, we can have the peace and the direction that comes through the influence of the Holy Ghost (p. 108)."
"'If our lives and our faith are centered on Jesus Christ and his restored gospel, nothing can ever go permanently wrong. On the other hand, if our lives are not centered on the Savior and his teachings, no other success can ever be permanently right' (Howard W. Hunter, p. 109)."
"Each of us, no matter who we are, are entitled to the blessings of God's love (p. 112)."
"'There is much to be learned in stillness and suffering. I have found the Lord in new, beautiful, and personal ways. I know Him better now. I trust Him better now... Trials invite us to progress. We all suffer. Great lessons will be learned in our suffering, if we turn to Him' (p. 113)."
"The mental health problems some people experience may not be resolved until the next life, but most can be managed and even healed in this life if the proper course is taken... The most important factors in overcoming emotional afflictions and mental disorders are discovering, renewing, and maintaining a meaningful relationship with God, following His guidance, and receiving the redemptive and enabling blessings of the Atonement of Jesus Christ (p. 113)."
"Progress is being made, but identifying the origins and cures of mental and emotional disorders has been, and continues to be, one of the great challenges facing the human family (p. 2)."
"God is our Father, He loves us, and because we are 'subject to all manner of infirmities in body and mind' (Mosiah 2:11), He has provided a means to 'heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease' (Matt. 10:1, p. 2)."
"I learned of my inability to overcome my physical afflictions and emotional burdens alone, which allowed me to discover the love of God; the merits, mercy, and grace of Jesus Christ; and a thirst for knowledge, both sacred and secular (p. 3)."
"Research supports the conclusion that Latter-day Saints who are striving to live their lives consistent with the teachings of the Savior and His servants experience greater well-being, increased marital and family stability, less delinquency, less depression, less anxiety, and less substance abuse than many of those who are not (p. 4)."
"Misunderstanding and misapplying the doctrine, principles, practices, and beliefs of the restored gospel can contribute to emotional and mental instability (p. 5)."
"'Members of the Church should seek out and share only credible, reliable, and factual sources of information' (p. 5)."
"The 'good news' is that the Atonement of Jesus Christ reconciles the hopeful expectations of the Creation with the oftentimes disappointing and even tragic realities of the Fall... We must also remember that the fullness of the blessings we seek through the Atonement of Christ will not be realized until after we are resurrected (p. 6)."
"I believe our Heavenly Father wants us to understand and to exercise both faith and reason as companion principles to our pursuit of truth and peace (p. 6)."
"'Good inspiration is based on good information' (p. 7)."
"Because distorted ideas (counterfeits) can be found in the writings of science as well as in religious belief and practice, I believe it is vital for us to learn how to discern truth from error as we attempt to understand the relationship between religion and mental health (p. 8)."
"'A virtue when pressed to the extreme may turn into a vice. Unreasonable devotion to an ideal, without considering the practical application of it, ruins the ideal itself' (Boyd K. Packer, p. 8)."
"'By proving contrarieties, truth is made manifest' (Joseph Smith, p. 8)."
"The principles of faith and reason... are complementary and mutually sustaining and help define one another (p. 9)."
"'Faithfulness is not foolishness or fanaticism. Rather, it is trusting and placing our confidence in Jesus Christ as our Savior, on His name, and in His promises' (David A. Bednar, p. 10)."
"Elder Holland's personal account illustrates that the Lord allows even one of the most faithful among us--even one of the Lord's Apostles--to experience mental distress and emotional affliction (p. 13)."
"'When the nervous system is once broken down the patient is too often a wreck for life. No class of diseases resist so stubbornly the efforts of the physician as nervous diseases (p. 14).'"
"President [George Albert] Smith's journals indicate that he suffered most every day of his adult life... from physical affliction and mental distress. The challenges [he] faced and the afflictions he endured were certainly a part of what identified him as one of 'the noble and great ones who were chosen in the beginning to be rulers in the Church of God' (D&C 138:55, p. 15)."
"'The bitter experience through which you are going is but designed for your purification and uplifting and qualification for an extended life work' (p. 16)."
"Depression can be an experience God allows for the qualification and purification of those who suffer (p. 16)."
"'Jesus wept'... Sorrow, sadness, and tears are attributes of God--characteristics to be emulated and embraced and not pathologized (p. 17)."
"If Adam and Even had not partaken of the fruit of the tree of knowledge and good and evil and remained in the Garden of Eden, they would have had 'no joy, for they knew no misery' (2 Ne. 2:23, p. 19)."
"'These thy brethren; they are the workmanship of mind own hands, and I gave unto them their knowledge.... gave I unto man his agency... and also given commandment, that they should love one another, and that they should choose me, their Father' (Moses 7:32-33, p. 20)."
"'God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain' (Rev. 21:4 p. 20)."
"The phrase 'I am like a broken vessel' is particularly descriptive of the feelings of those who suffer with depression. These individuals often describe their lives as once having meaning and purpose, but their experience with depression includes feeling useless and unwanted (p. 21)."
"'Despair cometh because of iniquity' (Moro. 10:22, p. 22)."
"'Some anxiety and depression is caused by physical disorders, but much of it is not a pain of the body but of the spirit. Spiritual pain resulting from guilt can be replaced with peace of mind' (Boyd K. Packer, p. 23)."
"The philosophical, cultural, and therapeutic shift in emphasis from sin to sickness is a recent phenomenon, but the discussion has ancient origins... 'Neither this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him' (John 9:1-3, p. 24)."
"'Too many people want to sin and call it psychology' (Jeffrey R. Holland, p. 24)."
"'Most mistakes can be settled between us and the Lord, and that should be done speedily... Restoring what you cannot restore, healing the would you cannot heal, fixing that which you broke and you cannot fix is the very purpose of the atonement of Christ' (Boyd K. Packer, p. 25)."
"Each one of us has spiritual, physical, and emotional weaknesses and afflictions that are beyond our ability to understand or to heal... These afflictions, int he words of Abinadi, can all be 'swallowed up in Christ' (Mosiah 16:8, p. 26)."
"'We simply have to stop judging others and replace judgmental thoughts and feelings with a heart full of love of God and His children' (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, p. 28)."
"Clinical research suggests that blaming ourselves and blaming others... are both related to a wise variety of mental health concerns (p. 29)."
"It appears that Hannah's despair was 'swept away' at least in part, because of her faith in the promise given to her by the Lord through one of His authorized servants (p. 32)."
"The stories of President George Albert Smith, Job, and Hannah are representative of good and faithful people across time and around the world who have loved and served God, loved their families and neighbors, and yet have done so while suffering from feelings of sorrow and despair (p. 33)."
"Similar to the different expressions of depression, the severity of anxiety ranges on a spectrum from the feelings of anxiousness we all experience to the anxiety that is debilitating (p. 34)."
"Both anxiety and fear can be normal and protective parts of the human experience (p. 35)."
"Most feelings of anxiousness are associated with specific life events that are short-term and become manageable as life progresses. Some forms of anxiousness have also been demonstrated to 'enhance motivation and achievement' (p. 35)."
"My first experience with understanding grace came during the beginning of my mission... my mission president... told me 'grace, by definition, is undeserved' (p. 38)."
"In many situations, exact obedience can lead to miracles, but in other circumstances, obsessive obedience becomes a manifestation of what the Book of Mormon prophet Jacob described as 'looking beyond the mark' (Jacob 4:14, p. 39)."
"'On our own we cannot earn the kingdom of God--no matter what we do... those works--as good as they may be--are hollow unless they are accompanied by a complete dependence on Christ' (M. Russell Ballard, p. 39)."
"'I almost fasted myself to death.'... Luther warned that those who practiced fasting beyond its intended purpose (as he had) would 'simply ruin their health and drive themselves mad' (p. 42)."
"'Satan has somehow managed to make covenants and commandments seem like curses and condemnations. For some he has turned the ideals and inspiration of the gospel into self-loathing and misery-making' (p. 42)."
"'Salvation cannot be bought with the currency of obedience; it is purchased by the blood of the Son of God. Our obedience to God's commandments comes as a natural outgrowth of our endless love and gratitude for the goodness of God' (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, p. 44)."
"The redemptive and enabling power of the grace of Christ allows us to be forgiven of our sins, transform our weakness into strength, and receive the peace we cannot obtain through our own righteousness, no matter how faithful and obedient we are (p. 45)."
"'God and man are at work together in the salvation of the human soul. The real question is not whether we are saved by grace or by works. The real questions are these: In whom do I trust? On whom do I rely?' (Robert Millet, p. 47)"
"Some Latter-day Saints become 'so preoccupied with performing good works' that they forget the importance of having a 'complete dependence on Christ' (M. Russell Ballard, p. 48)."
"Life, by divine design, is intended to be difficult (p. 51)."
"Some clinicians and scholars in our day... believe religious belief and practice are 'in many respects equivalent to irrational thinking and emotional disturbance... The less religious people are, the more emotionally healthy they will be.' In comparison to the people they serve, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals are 'more than twice as likely to claim no religion' (p. 52)."
"Ben's affliction with schizophrenia is being consecrated for his gain and for the gain and good of his family and friends (p. 64)."
"Having an inspired understanding of the character of God and the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can lead to emotional healing (p. 65)."
"'Lucifer said he would guarantee salvation for his spirit brothers and sisters. He promised salvation without excellence, without effort, without hard work, without individual responsibility. That is the lie he promulgated... That so-called short-cut to salvation captivated many gullible and lazy spirits. They wanted something for nothing' (Robert J. Matthews, p. 66)."
"Understanding the true nature of God and our divine relationship with Him is a 'potent antidepressant' (p. 72)."
"Perhaps one of the greatest lessons of life is to learn to love as He loved and to strive to help our families and others to do the same (p. 74)."
"The leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have never condoned suicide for any reason, but... prophets past and present have addressed the issue with mercy and grace... the origins of mental illness and emotional suffering can't always be explained as an act of freewill for which the individual is responsible (p. 76)."
"We must be aware some forms of mental illness and physical disability are outside the bounds of our agency (p. 78)."
"'The spirit and the body are the soul of man' (p. 80)."
"Healing can come through priesthood power and personal and prophetic revelation, as well as through clinical intervention (p. 81)."
"'It is one thing to know that Jesus Christ came to earth to die for us. But we also need to appreciate that the Lord desires, through His Atonement and by the power of the Holy Ghost, to live in us--not only to direct us but also to empower us' (David A. Bednar, p. 82)."
"'For many, the infirmity of depression is painful or permanently disabling. Those who suffer this circumstance should remember that our Savior experienced this kind of pain also and that, through His Atonement, He offers the strength to bear it' (Dallin H. Oaks, p. 82)."
"'Seek the advice of reputable people with certified training, professional skills, and good values... Prayerfully and responsibly consider the counsel they give and the solutions they prescribe. If you had appendicitis, God would expect you to seek a priesthood blessing and get the best medical care available. So too with emotional disorders. Our Father in Heaven expects us to use all of the marvelous gifts He has provided in this glorious dispensation' (Jeffrey R. Holland, p. 82)."
"'It is a wonderful thing to be faithful, but a much greater thing to be both faithful and competent' (Richard L. Evans, p. 84)."
"Some of the best outcomes I have observed have been when patient, therapist, and Church leaders all work together to address the needs of the individual or family (p. 87)."
"Above all else, we can be grateful for an almighty and all-loving God, who loves His children and who sent His Son to redeem us from our fallen state... 'Instead of being swept along in the anxiety and fear... rely on the assurances of a loving Heavenly Father' (Dallin H. Oaks, p. 91)."
"In response to the Savior's invitation, 'all the multitude did go forth with their sick and their afflicted, and their lame, and with their blind, and with their dumb, and with all them that were afflicted in any manner, and he did heal them every one' (3 Ne. 17:9, p. 92)."
"'Whenever a man has a true witness in his heart of the living reality of the Lord Jesus Christ all else will come together as it should' (Gordon B. Hinckley, p. 93)."
"People's experiences with mental illness are rarely the same (p. 94)."
"Alyssa is an example of the Lord's promise that He will 'ease the burdens which are put upon our shoulders.' She also exemplifies one who is following the Savior's direction to 'stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions' (Mosiah 24:14, p. 95)."
"'Talk, I will listen. Ask, I will help. Cry, I will comfort. Always' (p. 97)."
"'What is the source of such moral and spiritual power, and how do we obtain it? The source is God. Our access to that power is through our covenants with Him' (D. Todd Christofferson, p. 97)."
"Being in a covenant relationship with God is much different than seeing our relationship with Him as a contract... Striving to keep the covenants we make, most importantly to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ and to keep His commandments, allows the enabling power of His Atonement to heal our minds and hearts. And sometimes keeping the covenants we have made with God means that we do less and not more (p. 98)."
"'Turn everything over to his counselors and take the needed break and follow the doctor's orders, including using medication if prescribed' (p. 99)."
"'We simply don't have control over all the variables--conditions of a fallen world, including a body and mind that are moving toward death' (p. 100)."
"Sometimes, going the second mile is what the Lord asks of us, but other times, true discipleship means going only one mile, not two (p. 101)."
"The 'good part' was doing less and not more (p. 102)."
"Research studies and clinical observations alike identify 'perceived burdensomeness and failed belongingness' as two of the most common reasons why people take their own lives (p. 103)."
"'Remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer... that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds... his hail and his mighty storm... it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo' (Hel. 5:12, p. 105)."
"While we do need to be cautious of simplistic answers that distract us from real problems and solutions, profound answers to complex problems can sometimes be simpler than we may suppose (p. 105)."
"'The simpleness, the easiness of the gospel is such that it causes people to perish because they can't receive it' (Neal A. Maxwell, p. 105)."
"'Feast upon the words of Christ... the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do' (2 Ne. 32:5, p. 107)."
"One of the prophetic resources Janice credits with helping her through these difficult days was a general conference address given by President Ezra Taft Benson in 1986 entitled 'Do Not Despair.' The article includes the following principles for building a Christ-filled foundation: repentance, prayer, service, work, health, reading, blessings, fasting, friends, music, endurance, goals (p. 108)."
"'The mountains shall depart and the hills be removed, but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed' (3 Ne. 22:10, p. 108)."
"The Lord has promised that if we are true to the covenants we have made with Him, we can have the peace and the direction that comes through the influence of the Holy Ghost (p. 108)."
"'If our lives and our faith are centered on Jesus Christ and his restored gospel, nothing can ever go permanently wrong. On the other hand, if our lives are not centered on the Savior and his teachings, no other success can ever be permanently right' (Howard W. Hunter, p. 109)."
"Each of us, no matter who we are, are entitled to the blessings of God's love (p. 112)."
"'There is much to be learned in stillness and suffering. I have found the Lord in new, beautiful, and personal ways. I know Him better now. I trust Him better now... Trials invite us to progress. We all suffer. Great lessons will be learned in our suffering, if we turn to Him' (p. 113)."
"The mental health problems some people experience may not be resolved until the next life, but most can be managed and even healed in this life if the proper course is taken... The most important factors in overcoming emotional afflictions and mental disorders are discovering, renewing, and maintaining a meaningful relationship with God, following His guidance, and receiving the redemptive and enabling blessings of the Atonement of Jesus Christ (p. 113)."
January 2, 2022
It's hard to tell if this was written for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (or, really, members of any religion), or for the Church leaders that help them. Regardless, it helped me, as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (known as Mormons) to place my struggle with mental illness in the larger context of both my church congregation and my belief in God and Jesus Christ. There were no specific, practical points of advice on how to navigate mental illness in the Church, or at least to start discussions about it, which was something I'd hoped for. But then, how do you write an instruction manual for that, since everyone's experience is slightly different?
June 28, 2023
I found this book to be helpful in my own dealings with the combined topic of religion and mental health. Here you can find several examples of well known,and regular saints who struggle with one form or another of mental illness. While not in-depth, this book provides several jumping off points for greater conversation and understanding. It also urges to look at certain scriptures with a lens of dealing with mental health. I’d recommend this book to anyone who is, or is close too, struggling with this topic.
February 21, 2024
Notable quotes:
Author quoting Professor Robert J. Matthews (1926-299), former dean of Religious Education at BYU:
"It seems strange to me that a third of all the spirits that had the potential to be born into this world would have favored a plan based on forced obedience. Most of us do not like to be forced. As I see it, the real issue was not so much one of force as it was that Lucifer said he would guarantee salvation for his spirit brothers and sisters. He promised salvation without excellence, without effort, without hard work, without individual responsibility. That is the lie he promulgated in the preearth councils. That so-called shortcut to salvation captivated many gullible and lazy spirits. They wanted something for nothing." pp 66-67
Professor Robert L. Millet, a professor of ancient scripture at BYU, wrote of his perspective on taking medication as part of his treatment for anxiety and depression:
"I had no hesitation whatsoever in taking [medication] because I was convinced that I needed medical help for my condition, just as my father needed insulin for his diabetes and my mother needed help with her high blood pressure... I have continued to take the meds for the last twenty years. I still have days when things seem darker, when the slightest task seems overwhelming, or when I find myself feeling emotionally down for a day or two. But I have decided that that's just the way life is. We simply don't have control over all the variables - conditions of a fallen world, including a body and mind that are moving toward death." p 100
Judd writes of a woman he calls Janice who "offers an example of someone whose mental and emotional burdens led her to remember and live the covenants she had made to 'take upon' herself the name of Jesus Christ, to 'always remember him and keep his commandments.' As she began to recover from depression, she made the decision 'to act for [herself] and not to be acted upon/ by setting and waking to her own alarm, getting out of bed, sliding to her knees and offering a prayer. This was Janice's way of reminding herself Who came first in her life." p 107
I particularly liked the idea of setting a morning ritual to remind myself that Jesus comes first in my life, and to show Him that I am serious about overcoming the world.
Despite emphases on therapy and medication, renewed spirituality and effort to meaningfully live the gospel are most heavily emphasized. I wouldn't pass this book along to my loved ones who suffer from anxiety disorders because I think they would find it discouraging, that their situation was hopeless because they weren't able to make enough effort to be well, to break free of the mental torment that holds them down.
Author quoting Professor Robert J. Matthews (1926-299), former dean of Religious Education at BYU:
"It seems strange to me that a third of all the spirits that had the potential to be born into this world would have favored a plan based on forced obedience. Most of us do not like to be forced. As I see it, the real issue was not so much one of force as it was that Lucifer said he would guarantee salvation for his spirit brothers and sisters. He promised salvation without excellence, without effort, without hard work, without individual responsibility. That is the lie he promulgated in the preearth councils. That so-called shortcut to salvation captivated many gullible and lazy spirits. They wanted something for nothing." pp 66-67
Professor Robert L. Millet, a professor of ancient scripture at BYU, wrote of his perspective on taking medication as part of his treatment for anxiety and depression:
"I had no hesitation whatsoever in taking [medication] because I was convinced that I needed medical help for my condition, just as my father needed insulin for his diabetes and my mother needed help with her high blood pressure... I have continued to take the meds for the last twenty years. I still have days when things seem darker, when the slightest task seems overwhelming, or when I find myself feeling emotionally down for a day or two. But I have decided that that's just the way life is. We simply don't have control over all the variables - conditions of a fallen world, including a body and mind that are moving toward death." p 100
Judd writes of a woman he calls Janice who "offers an example of someone whose mental and emotional burdens led her to remember and live the covenants she had made to 'take upon' herself the name of Jesus Christ, to 'always remember him and keep his commandments.' As she began to recover from depression, she made the decision 'to act for [herself] and not to be acted upon/ by setting and waking to her own alarm, getting out of bed, sliding to her knees and offering a prayer. This was Janice's way of reminding herself Who came first in her life." p 107
I particularly liked the idea of setting a morning ritual to remind myself that Jesus comes first in my life, and to show Him that I am serious about overcoming the world.
Despite emphases on therapy and medication, renewed spirituality and effort to meaningfully live the gospel are most heavily emphasized. I wouldn't pass this book along to my loved ones who suffer from anxiety disorders because I think they would find it discouraging, that their situation was hopeless because they weren't able to make enough effort to be well, to break free of the mental torment that holds them down.
September 20, 2022
A personal book for me. My religion is a huge part of my life. And, mental health has been a big part of my journey, including periods of lower depression and continued therapy and medication. I’m glad I’m doing much much better now than I used to be.
I loved the way Judd uses research and scientific data to show combat the narrative that religion always has a negative effect on people’s mental health. I love that Judd shares practical tips for how to navigate difficulties with mental illness and how religious doctrine and practice can actually be incredibly helpful. I know it’s been that way for me. So, while I push myself too hard sometimes (because of work, religion, academics, community, family, etc.), I can also draw upon my religious beliefs, especially my belief in my Savior, Jesus Christ, for help and strength and healing.
I loved the way Judd uses research and scientific data to show combat the narrative that religion always has a negative effect on people’s mental health. I love that Judd shares practical tips for how to navigate difficulties with mental illness and how religious doctrine and practice can actually be incredibly helpful. I know it’s been that way for me. So, while I push myself too hard sometimes (because of work, religion, academics, community, family, etc.), I can also draw upon my religious beliefs, especially my belief in my Savior, Jesus Christ, for help and strength and healing.
February 2, 2023
I have high expectations when reading literature about the topics of religion & mental health together. I value both science & spirituality and appreciate when takes on mental health from a religious perspective balance the two responsibly.
My opinion is that Daniel K. Judd did an excellent job balancing science with spirituality, conveying themes with integrity, diligence, and care. I would recommend this read to anyone wanting to expand their knowledge on the topic of mental health from an LDS religious perspective. Daniel's vast use of scripture and quotes soothes like an inspired balm.
Key highlights for me - the information about President George Albert Smith's experience with depression in Chapter 1, the blurb on Heavenly Mother in Chapter 4, and the writer's wife's sentiment about stillness and suffering in the Conclusion.
My opinion is that Daniel K. Judd did an excellent job balancing science with spirituality, conveying themes with integrity, diligence, and care. I would recommend this read to anyone wanting to expand their knowledge on the topic of mental health from an LDS religious perspective. Daniel's vast use of scripture and quotes soothes like an inspired balm.
Key highlights for me - the information about President George Albert Smith's experience with depression in Chapter 1, the blurb on Heavenly Mother in Chapter 4, and the writer's wife's sentiment about stillness and suffering in the Conclusion.
November 2, 2021
Everyone should read this book! If you don't struggle with mental health issues, chances are you know someone who does. Dr Judd is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He is a seasoned professor of ancient scripture at Brigham Young University and he possesses a doctorate in counseling psychology. He addresses in detail common mental health conditions and adds advice on how to support those that struggle with mental health issues.
I found this book to be helpful and informative.
I found this book to be helpful and informative.
February 12, 2023
In general, I think this book is a good introduction to a Latter-day Saint perspective on mental health. I think the book works best when Judd uses contemporary examples from his experiences as a Church leader and mental health counselor. I especially think he gives excellent advice when it comes to choosing therapists and medication. I’m far less enthusiastic about his use of historical and scriptural examples of people dealing with apparent mental health challenges. For me, his use of King David as an example of someone dealing with depression was particularly problematic.
September 5, 2021
I really enjoyed this approach! Wonderful insights, lots of references with which to expand my knowledge. The examples and case studies were spot on in my view. The application of the Atonement does not mean that there won’t be affliction in this life. Judd makes this plain. But he does help readers realize that through our mental health affliction, the Atonement does indeed apply, is universal and benefits everyone! I enjoyed this book a lot!
February 1, 2022
I enjoyed this one. It was a relatively quick read and was well researched. I loved the examples of how mental illness can really impact an individual’s ability to worship and feel peace within a religion. I particularly thought it was interesting talking about the various types of anxiety people suffer with and how it can negatively impact your ability to worship in a healthy way. It gave me a lot to think about.
December 10, 2023
I’m loving this series. My favorite parts of this book were the examples of modern day and biblical church leaders who experienced mental health challenges. I’d never really considered or taken the time to realize that there were so many examples of true mental disorders in the scriptures, not just moments of temporary anguish. When comparing the symptoms described in the scriptures, it becomes apparent that some most likely did have diagnosable depression etc.
August 5, 2024
Very in-depth, both spiritually and research-wise, on each branch of mental health disorders, gospel principles that relate to them, and examples of people who have suffered from them. Very understanding, empathetic, and hopeful.
Fascinating, as well as helps you not feel as alone or as solely “broken.” A lovely blend of truth and mercy. (And so many people described that I wish I could go hug!)
Fascinating, as well as helps you not feel as alone or as solely “broken.” A lovely blend of truth and mercy. (And so many people described that I wish I could go hug!)
October 9, 2021
I think this book does exactly what it sets out to do, so in that sense it's fantastic. Most of the info here was not new to me, but I'm also not the target audience.
I would strongly recommend this book to folks that are very orthodox in their beliefs and want to have a perspective on mental health that brings spiritual and clinical approaches together.
I would strongly recommend this book to folks that are very orthodox in their beliefs and want to have a perspective on mental health that brings spiritual and clinical approaches together.
October 14, 2021
This would be especially helpful for anyone experiencing mental health struggles for the first time or for someone who wants to better understand someone they care about who is struggling. It’s a simple, not overly long or overly complicated overview of mental health treatment and the role faith can play in helping the process.
November 11, 2021
I learned more from this book about mental health than I did in nursing school! The author describes mental health and how to help ourselves during temporary mental illness and those around us who have a mental illness. Many gospel principles are explained with consideration of mental challenges. I will be reading this book again.
December 22, 2021
A timely and imperative look at faith and mental health. If understood properly, faith in Jesus Christ can sustain us through the trials of mortality. But when twisted into looking beyond the mark, or as a way to shame and berate ourselves, it can cause anguish. Misunderstanding faith can cause us to deny the grace and power of the atonement of Jesus Christ.
July 7, 2023
This book expressed so much of what my heart has been yearning to say. The research (both scientific and religious) gave words, evidence, and encouragement that was so very much needed.
Those who are Christian (particularly LDS) and struggling with mental health would find a lot of bolstering from this short read. Would definitely recommend.
Those who are Christian (particularly LDS) and struggling with mental health would find a lot of bolstering from this short read. Would definitely recommend.
June 10, 2024
3.75 stars. I enjoyed learning from this book and it was especially interesting to me to learn about historical figures and past religious leaders that most likely had mental health challenges. I thought this book was helpful, but didn’t feel necessarily groundbreaking or especially groundbreaking thus the rating.
Recommendation by Kaitlyn (Craig)
Recommendation by Kaitlyn (Craig)
February 8, 2026
I have enjoyed reading each book in this series so far. Each is written by a scholar who marries their studies, personal research, and life experiences with their faith. There was one part regarding a mother with post-partum depression, which made me wince a little, but overall, it was a great book, and I highly recommend it.
November 17, 2021
Super fascinating. A balanced discussion about mental health and religion. Interesting to learn about trends and fallacies that make things worse. would be great preparation for young people preparing to serve missions, or their parents and leaders, for example.
April 20, 2023
I really enjoyed this. I started listening to it and then went and bought a hard copy so I could mark some things. I found it much easier to listen to than to read, though. The print is really small.
October 15, 2023
Eye opening to hear about prominent members and leaders of the church shin have struggled with mental illness. Really important work that helps dismantle the stigma of mental health as being related to unfaithfulness, while still emphasizing the resilience that comes from the gospel.
December 11, 2023
This was a good book with a lot of good points. Thankfully, I have never had serious mental health struggles. Maybe if I had this book would have had more of an impact on me. As it is, I did not like it as much as I have the other books in this series.
September 21, 2025
This had great insights on mental health and views in the this church. I loved the examples from the past of people who have struggled with mental health from more recent to biblical times. I felt it was a topic covered very well.
August 24, 2021
Beautiful book! Everyone read it!
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