PTSD and the Ministry of the Gospel4 min read

As you read this article, keep in mind that I am not a mental health clinician. What follows comes from personal experience, research, and conversation with others.

When you think of post-traumatic stress, what is the first thing that comes to mind? If you are like most people, your immediate thought goes to the military who experienced first-hand the trauma caused by warfare. However, the military is not alone in experiencing the mental illness. Millions of non-veterans suffer from PTSD. The National Center for PTSD estimates 5% of Americans suffer from PTSD in any given year (Ptsd.va.gov). It should not come as a surprise that educators in our Lutheran day schools and pastors, each of whom are on the front lines of spiritual warfare, are subject to the disorder. Of course, many members of our congregations also experience the debilitating effects of this mental illness.

According to Soul Care Counseling, a study at Danielsen Institute at Boston University of pastors across denominations, 35% of clergy met the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis. According to that study at least, serving as a pastor is the highest-risk profession for developing PTSD: “Many pastors and former pastors do have the symptoms of PTSD and suffer from Pastoral Post-Traumatic Stress without realizing it” (Dr. Mark Riley, Pastoral Post-Traumatic Stress, April 28, 2021.)

What is post-traumatic stress disorder? According to the Mayo Clinic, “Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it”.

Some of those events include childhood trauma, sexual abuse, witnessing a traumatic event, frequent life-changing events, and frequent fighting between parents and other family members or friends of the family, especially when there is physical or emotional abuse. In addition to this, church workers experience PTSD as a result of protracted conflict (think of trouble working with the church council or school board and pervasive difficulties in voters meetings in which the individual or his/her work is attacked), and witnessing the death of a parishioner or multiple funerals in a short period, especially when the death was particularly traumatic. Of course, there are other causes in addition to these situations.

It is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder either as one with PTSD or one associated with an individual displaying these symptoms:

• Changes in physical and emotional reactions to life events;
• Being easily startled or frightened;
• Always being on guard for danger;
• Self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much;
• Life-risking behavior;
• Trouble sleeping;
• Trouble concentrating;
• Irritability, angry outbursts or aggressive behavior;
• Overwhelming guilt or shame. (Google, PTSD symptoms)

In addition to these symptoms, the illness also leads to paranoia—the unsubstantiated fear that others have the intention of sabotaging your ministry. In order to find relief from the symptoms, other addictive behaviors besides alcoholism are common. Finally, demonstrating self-destructive behavior, such as thoughts of committing suicide, thoughts of taking another person’s life, or attempting suicide are significant symptoms of PTSD. Note that many of these behaviors are also symptoms of depression and anxiety, which are also experienced with PTSD. When these symptoms appear, it is important to immediately seek mental health assistance.

Recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder requires multiple points of attack: Long-term psychotherapy with a reputable mental health worker, perhaps a Christian therapist*, and medication. Christians ought to seek relief through Christ-centered meditation, reading the Bible (especially the Psalms), frequent reception of the Lord’s Supper, and prayer, especially praying the Lord’s prayer. In addition to this, confiding in a pastor for a listening ear and the opportunity to hear the Gospel time and time again is extremely helpful, as is talking with a colleague or mature Christian who will not betray confidence.

If a close friend or relative is diagnosed with PTSD (or exhibits symptoms of the illness), make sure they follow their treatment plan. If their symptoms do not improve after 6 to 8 weeks, you can encourage them to talk about it with their health care provider. You also can:

• Offer emotional support, understanding, patience, and encouragement.
• Learn about PTSD so you can understand what your friend is experiencing.
• Listen carefully. Pay attention to the person’s feelings and the situations that may trigger PTSD symptoms.
• Share positive distractions such as walks, outings, and other activities.

It is important to note that there may be a much-improved life when PTSD is treated. Many find that the symptoms of their illness lessen or go away with professional treatment. Others struggle with the disorder throughout their lives. In either case, seek treatment to gain a healthier life.

I had a personal experience with the disorder several years ago. I was meeting with a mentor. During our time together, I started to complain about my life and the sense of persecution (paranoia) I was experiencing. After listening to my complaints, he interrupted me and said simply, “Dale, take it to the cross.” Those six words made a dramatic difference in my life. The suggestion was one of many life-altering moments I experienced in my journey to improved mental health and the enjoyment of life with my Redeemer and the people of God.

*The Michigan District Mental Health Case Manager, Deaconess Christie Hansard RN, is available to help you find a Christian counselor in your area. You can contact her at 734.845.2972 or by email at christie.hansard@michigandistrict.org.

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