A gentle note: Still Here Faith offers Christian encouragement and resource navigation, not medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, pastoral counseling, crisis care, or emergency care.
If you are in immediate danger or thinking about harming yourself, call emergency services, call or text 988 in the U.S., or text HOME to 741741. Therapy, medication, pastoral care, and medical support can all be part of faithful care.
For Pastors and Churches
Mental Health Guide for Small Group Leaders
Quick Answer
Small group leaders do not have to become counselors. They can listen, reduce shame, offer practical support, and know when to involve pastors, trusted caregivers, licensed professionals, or urgent support resources.
Lead with presence, not answers
When someone shares that they are not okay, thank them for telling you. Do not rush to fix, preach, or correct. A calm, steady response can make the group feel safer.
Know your lane
Small group care can include prayer, meals, check-ins, belonging, and referral. It should not replace professional care, medical support, pastoral oversight, or urgent support when more help is needed.
Create a follow-up habit
After a hard conversation, follow up privately and gently. Ask what would help this week, and involve church leadership when the need is beyond what the group can safely carry.
📖 Free Guide
Build a safer care pathway
A church does not have to become a clinic to become safer. It can listen, refer, follow up, and reduce shame.
Still Here Faith offers Christian encouragement and resource navigation, not medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, pastoral counseling, crisis care, or emergency care. If you are in immediate danger, call emergency services, call or text 988 in the U.S., or text HOME to 741741.