The Uniting Church in Queensland formally recognised the importance of mental health ministry at the 31st Synod in October 2014. The church affirmed the ongoing provision of mental health services by church agencies; requested the identification, development and provision of resources for congregations; and encouraged all congregations to participate in the Mental Health Day of Prayer during Mental Health Week in October each year.
The church recognises that people with mental health issues are one of the most marginalised groups in the community, are frequently isolated, and experience poverty, unemployment, stigma and exclusion. We are called to care and be involved in outreach to individuals and families whose lives are affected by mental health issues, and in advocacy to remove injustices in mental health delivery and support.
Finding support
Contacts for a wide range of support organisations
Just a normal family by Emma Pedler
He’s the young gun star of the local footy club. But, for 17-year-old Brady Tosold, life isn’t just about the high flying marks, it’s also about helping his dad Sean work through his lows.
The stigma of mental illness
Charlie Pickering takes a look at society’s attitude to mental illness, and how it can kill more people than gun violence.
More resources
For updates on mental health and other social responsibility issues, check out Social Responsibility Review in JourneyOnline.