Churchwide Change: Part 2

Reducing Stigma and Supporting People who Experience Mental Illness

two young women sit on a couch holding hands. Both are bent over in grief

A webinar recorded on October 7, 2021.

Janelle Bitikofer's June webinar, “Providing Mutual Support When People Are Experiencing Mental Illness,” was so engaging, and viewers had so many questions, that we offered a part two. In this continued conversation held on October 7, we discussed practical ways for congregations to engage in mutual care.

Watch the Recording on YouTube.

Janelle Bitikofer is Executive Director of We Rise International, lead mental health trainer for Churches Care - a mental health and addictions training program for congregations, and author of Streetlights: Empowering Christians to Respond to Mental Illnesses and Addictions - a mental health and addictions support manual for churches.

This webinar was co-sponsored by Anabaptist Disabilities Network and Church of the Brethren Discipleship Ministries.

Opening Doors

Tiny, Little Awkward Steps
Pastor Nathanael Hofstetter Ressler offers tips for congregations beginning to accommodate for mental illness and support mental health.
Loneliness: It Affects us All
M.Div. student Michelle Robichaud offers a few ways churches can support lonely youth who lack a feeling of connection.
The "Me" You Don't See
Taking the Mystery out of Mental Health
Depression and Anxiety Rise among Young Adults during COVID-19

Connections

Connections Winter 2023
In this issue: Telling the Whole Story, Neurodivergence and Personal Growth, Blessed Youth, Resources for Churches, Webinar on Youth and Mental Health, Register for We are Able
Telling the Whole Story
Mental Health Therapist JE Misz finds hope and beauty amidst the growing mental health crisis.
Neurodivergence and Personal Growth
Sam Stoltzfus reflects on her transition from high school to college as a young adult with mental illness
Blessed Youth
Reverend and author Sarah Griffith Lund urges congregations to connect with their youth and break the silence about mental illness.
Support Your Youth
Our top 4 resources for congregations who want to support youth struggling with their mental health
Practices for Resilience
Ways to step down our response to traumatic stress
Does My Child Have PTSD?
Considering the Intersections of Trauma and Disability
an overview of trauma and disability for congregations
Trauma-Informed Care for Congregations
creating safe and welcoming space for all
Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Social Determinant of Health
how ACE's affect physical and emotional well-being