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Glossary

Christian Mental Health Glossary

Short, gentle definitions for words people search when faith and mental health feel tangled.

Quick Answer

This glossary helps define core Still Here Faith topics in plain language: Christian depression, low-capacity faith, spiritual numbness, lament, pastoral care, Christian counseling, major depression, and crisis support.

Christian depression

Depression experienced by a Christian, which may involve the body, brain, emotions, circumstances, grief, trauma, and spiritual distress. It is not automatically spiritual failure.

Low-capacity faith

Faith practiced in small, honest ways when depression, anxiety, grief, illness, or burnout reduce what a person can carry.

Spiritual numbness

A state where a person may still believe but does not feel close to God or emotionally responsive. It can overlap with depression, grief, burnout, or trauma.

Major depression

A serious form of depression that can disrupt daily life, sleep, concentration, relationships, work, and safety. It deserves professional care and support.

Pastoral care

Spiritual support from a pastor or church leader. It can be deeply meaningful, but it does not replace therapy, medical care, or crisis care.

Christian counseling

Counseling that respects Christian faith and addresses emotional or mental health concerns. Always check credentials, scope, and safety practices.

Lament

Honest prayer that brings grief, confusion, anger, fear, or pain before God. Lament is not faithlessness. It is often faith telling the truth.

Crisis support

Immediate support for moments when someone may be unsafe or at risk of harming themselves. In the U.S., call or text 988 or contact emergency services.

📖 Free Guide

Need a place to start?

If definitions feel too abstract, choose a guided pathway by what feels heavy today.