Questions
Frequently asked questions
The first three are the questions Jordan answered in 2020, updated with current sources. If you’re in crisis, get help now.
How can mental health affect physical health?
They are closely linked. NIMH notes that people with depression are at higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, chronic pain and other conditions, partly because symptoms like fatigue make it harder to eat well, exercise and keep up with medical care. It works the other way too: people with a chronic illness are at higher risk of depression. Caring for one helps the other.
Where can I find treatment?
A good first step is your primary care doctor, who can check for physical causes and refer you to a counselor, therapist or psychiatrist. FindTreatment.gov, from SAMHSA, lists licensed treatment across the U.S., and the SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) offers free referrals 24/7. Students can usually see a school counselor or campus counseling center for free.
Can mental illness run in families?
Yes, some mental illnesses run in families. NIMH says having a close relative with a mental disorder can mean a higher risk. But genes are only part of the story: life experiences, stress and environment matter too, and a family history is not destiny. Sharing your family history with your doctor helps them understand your risk.
Is it a sin to be depressed or anxious?
No. Depression and anxiety are health conditions, not sins. Scripture is full of faithful people who were overwhelmed: David, Elijah, Jeremiah and Jesus himself in Gethsemane. Struggling doesn’t mean your faith is weak.
Can a Christian see a therapist or take medication?
Yes. Getting help from a doctor or counselor is using the care God has made available, like taking medicine for an infection. Many Christians combine prayer, church community and professional treatment. A good counselor will respect your faith.
What should I do if a friend says they want to die?
Take it seriously. Stay with them, listen without judging, and ask directly whether they are thinking about suicide; studies show asking doesn’t increase suicidal thoughts. Call or text 988 together, and if they are in immediate danger, call 911. Tell a trusted adult.
How do I start a conversation about mental health?
Pick a calm, private moment, ideally face to face. Start simply (“I’ve noticed you seem down lately. How are you really doing?”), then listen more than you talk. You don’t need to fix anything; being willing to talk is what breaks the stigma.
What does “poor in spirit” mean in Matthew 5:3?
The Greek word for “poor” describes someone with nothing at all, like a beggar. To be poor in spirit is to come to God knowing you need Him. Jesus says those people are blessed: “theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.”
Is this site a substitute for professional help?
No. Matthew 5:3 is for education and encouragement. We aren’t clinicians and can’t diagnose or treat anyone. If you’re struggling, please talk to a doctor, counselor or pastor, and in a crisis call or text 988.
Sources
- Understanding the Link Between Chronic Disease and Depression, National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed November 4, 2026.
- Looking at My Genes: What Can They Tell Me About My Mental Health?, National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed November 4, 2026.
- Help for Mental Illnesses, National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed November 4, 2026.
- FindTreatment.gov, SAMHSA. Accessed November 4, 2026.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Accessed November 4, 2026.
- #BeThe1To: the 5 steps and the evidence behind them, 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Accessed November 4, 2026.