Distracted: Mental Health

The Bible does not hide the struggles of God’s people — it shows them honestly. Elijah, after his greatest victory, collapsed in fear and despair. Jeremiah, the weeping prophet, wrestled with loneliness and rejection. David carried the crushing weight of guilt and grief over his failures. Even Paul, the great apostle, lived with a persistent thorn in the flesh. Their stories remind us that faith does not mean freedom from struggle, but that in our weakness, God’s presence and grace are more than enough.

1 Kings 19:1-18
2 Samuel 11-13
Jeremiah 20:7-18
Lamentations 3:1-20
2 Corinthians 12:7-10



Discussion Questions

• When you think of the phrase “mental health”, what comes to mind? How have you seen it affect people in the church or in your own life?
• Read Psalm 42:5 – “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God…”
  • What do you notice about how the psalmist handles his emotions?
  • How does this model help us when we feel overwhelmed?
• What are some unhelpful myths or stigmas you’ve heard about mental health in Christian circles? How do they compare to what Scripture actually says about human weakness and God’s care?
• Read 1 Kings 19:3–8 (Elijah under the broom tree).
  • What does God’s response to Elijah teach us about how He cares for us in seasons of depression or burnout?
• How do you balance seeking spiritual help (prayer, Scripture, community) with practical help (therapy, doctors, rest) when dealing with anxiety or depression?
• Read Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other’s burdens…”
  • What are practical ways our group or church family can support one another in struggles with anxiety, depression, or stress?
• Read Philippians 4:6–7.
  • How does prayer and thanksgiving shift our perspective in times of worry?
  • Share a personal example where God gave you peace beyond understanding.
• How does remembering our identity in Christ (loved, chosen, redeemed) reshape how we see ourselves in the middle of struggles with mental health?
• What would it look like for the church to be known as a safe place for people battling mental health issues?
• Take time to pray for one another — specifically for peace, strength, and healing in areas of stress, anxiety, or depression.