Mental Health

It is said that 1 in 5 people in their lifetime will experience lasting mental ill-health. Each of us has either experienced it or knows someone well who has. Mental ill-health is not often talked about but is a part of each of our lives. Here you will find some information on various health conditions, where to seek help and what is currently in the media on these issues.

The Uniting Church stands in solidarity with marginalised people. Those with mental ill-health are often overlooked and misunderstood – by our society, our government, our caregivers and even family and friends. Mental health is a current key focus of the Moderator and Transforming Justice Co-ordinator.

A fresh resource

Theological Reflection:

In the face of this great need, Christians are called to act. Our response must be born from generosity, not fear; drawn from the grace we have received through our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit. (2 Corinthians 13:13)

The roots of mental disorders lie deep within us, in our genetic inheritance and our early experience. We are all broken people; but we in the church are broken people who are being restored through the good news of Jesus Christ, who has identified with us in every way.

We can act with grace rather than shame. We can welcome one another as Christ has welcomed us. (see Ephesians 4.32)

We are bathed in the love of God, so we can act out of love rather than fear. (1 John 4.18)

We are united in the communion created by the Spirit, where there is no stigma and all are equal. (Galatians 3.28)

Theological reflection by Rev Dr Paul Walton

For emergency support please contact:

Mental health emergency - call 13 14 65

For assistance in a mental health emergency, contact the mental health triage service - telephone 13 14 65 available 24 hours, seven days a week.

Lifeline (24 hours) 13 11 14;
Kids Helpline (ages five to 25) 1800 55 1800;
MensLine Australia (24 hours) 1300 78 99 78.