by Beverly Nelson
Mental health is at a historical low in the country, according to Mental Health America. What was already a burgeoning crisis has been exacerbated by the pandemic, social isolation, and the general atmosphere of fear and confusion. At times like these, going to church—regardless of your religious inclination—can bring you comfort and healing, not to mention an escape from the darkness. In this post, Lutherans For Life takes a look at some of the general benefits of attending your local church.
Churches Have a Calming, Healing Energy
Churches, as a rule, have a calming energy that’s tangible as soon as you step foot through the door. Just being in the building is enough to quieten your mind, loosen your tensed-up muscles, and make you feel at peace. Visiting your church once a week is a great way to relax and unwind, without you needing to do anything special.
It Can Prop Up Your Flagging Mental Health
If you’re working from home in isolation, your mind keeps going a mile a minute, and you constantly have recurring negative thoughts or fears, going to church is a powerful way to gain some much-needed relief from it all. Not only does the atmosphere help keep your mind calm, but listening to the pastor or reading a meaningful religious passage can help to keep your attention constructively engaged.
The People Tend to Be Welcoming and Caring
Churchgoers tend to be a caring, conscientious, understanding, and loving bunch (possibly aided by the “Come as You Are” culture movement). This is true even if you’ve never attended before or don’t attend often. Acceptance from the church community can bring you validation, security, and comfort.
The Music Is Good for Your Mind and Heart
Religious music is linked to better mental health, according to the Oxford Academic. Listening to the choir perform (or taking part in it) and singing along can do wonders for your emotional and mental well-being. The music evokes positive emotion, soothes frayed nerves, and helps you feel at peace.
You Can Meaningfully Give Back to the Community
Churches often organize fundraisers, soup kitchens, and similar charity and goodwill events for their communities. Participating in such events can do wonders for your well-being. Doing good for others can help you feel good about yourself, your life, and people in general. Also, the good deeds that you do also tend to come back to you, in ways small and large.
You Can Learn How to Love Others
Churches are all about fostering Christ’s love in your heart (and life). Going to church can teach you how to be more tolerant, respectful, loving, and kind to your fellow human beings. If you experience conflicts with people often or have trouble understanding them, the church can help. Also, if you have problems with being social or finding good people, the church offers an opportunity for socialization.
Faith Can Keep You Going
Last, but not least, is faith. Life isn’t always easy, and sometimes challenges can darken your path or even overwhelm you entirely. In such cases, prayer and belief in God can light your way and give you the strength you need to keep going. You can also get advice from an experienced, compassionate minister. Faith may not come easily and usually needs to be developed, so keep that in mind.
Conclusion
Going to church has many benefits and can notably heighten your well-being. Don’t hesitate to visit regularly or, at least, once in a while. It will help you feel better physically, mentally, and spiritually. You can meet kind individuals, overcome challenges in life, and get closer to God. Regular church attendance is the best predictor/positive factor for reducing suicide. Studies have shown people who attend church regularly are four times less likely to be suicidal than those who never attend church.
Lutherans For Life believes that the Church is compelled by God’s Word to speak and act on behalf of those who are vulnerable and defenseless. To get involved, please call 888.364.LIFE (5433).