About
This is a three-part series with the overarching goal of reducing stigma and increasing awareness of mental illness. The three parts of the series include the following topics, 1) providing a basic overview of mental health in the Orthodox perspective, 2) briefly discussing clergy self-care, 3) and learning a practical plan of action (Mental Health First Aid) to approach and care for individuals displaying sign & symptoms of mental illness. Objectives of Part I: - Gaining a grasp on how to conceptualize mental illness, and how to distinguish it from spiritual illness - Conceptualize holistic wellness and care (soul, body, spirit connection) - Challenging our own misconceptions - Overview of modern-day psychology including important statistics - Understanding the potential causes for mental illness - A brief overview of CBT theory as a holistic framework for the individual