How UU Churches Address Mental Health with Love and Action | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 040

Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! We're so glad you're here. In this episode, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana dive into a deeply important conversation about mental health—why it matters, why the church should care, and how we can create a faith community that supports every person’s well-being. 

Too often, mental health struggles are met with shame, silence, or pressure to "be okay." But in Unitarian Universalism, we believe it's okay to NOT be okay. Our faith calls us to care for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and to support one another in times of struggle. We are here to affirm your experiences, offer real support, and connect you with resources that help—not just with faith, but with practical care for your mental health.

UUA Peer Pastoral Care Training for Youth: https://www.uua.org/leaderlab/youth-ministry/peer-pastoral-care

Mental Health First Aid for Youth: https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/population-focused-modules/youth/

Resources that can help: https://dallasuu.org/pastoral-care/resources/

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00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks!
00:35 - Why mental health belongs in church discussions
01:05 - The pressure to always be "good enough"
01:29 - It’s okay to not be okay
01:48 - When faith communities focus too much on achievement
02:04 - The risk of people disappearing from church due to struggle
02:20 - Taking care of yourself comes first
02:53 - The impact of stress and societal pressure on mental health
03:13 - Small wins: Some days, just getting through is enough
05:09 - Faith and mental health: More than just prayer
05:14 - The harm of being told "just have more faith"
05:25 - How our church provides real mental health resources
06:46 - Supporting youth mental health and community care
08:21 - Need help? Reach out. We're here for you. 08:42 - Closing words: We love you. Be well.

First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/

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