Navigating Faith-Based Mental Health Support: A Study of Community Church Leaders and Volunteers in Northern Ireland using Case Study Methodology

Background: Mental illness is a prevalent and pressing issue in the United Kingdom, significantly impacting individuals and communities. While church doctrines and practices have historically contributed to stigma surrounding mental health, previous studies have also highlighted the potential of churches as supportive environments for individuals with mental illnesses. Based on existing literature, some individuals have reported positive experiences in faith-based communities, indicating that these institutions may offer untapped resources for mental health support. The research examined the extent of the churches' involvement in supporting individuals with mental health issues, as well as the challenges faced by the clergy and volunteers whilst providing support. Methodology: Employing a case study methodology, this research explored two distinct church communities in Northern Ireland, an urban ethnically diverse church and a rural church. Seventeen participants comprising of clergy and volunteers were interviewed. In addition to interviews, documentary evidence and field notes were collected to enhance the depth of the study. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic. Social capital theory was applied to thematic categories, providing insight into the interpersonal networks, trust, and reciprocity that influence faith-based mental health support. Findings: Two overarching themes emerged from the analysis: ‘Values and Motivation for Volunteering in the Church Community’, with three sub-themes; faith-based motivation for volunteering, personal reasons for volunteering, and opportunities and challenges within the church community. The second theme, ‘Stigma in Church Communities’, had two sub-themes; stigma in relation to mental health and adaptation processes aimed at reducing stigma. Three distinct types of stigmas were identified; self-stigma, faith-based stigma and institutional/cultural stigma. These forms of stigma influenced, not only the experiences of individuals with mental health challenges, but also shaped the attitudes and responses of clergy and volunteers. However, the findings also demonstrated how churches were actively adapting to reduce stigma, implementing changes to foster more inclusive and supportive environments. Discussion: Erving Goffman’s concept of stigma provided a framework to interpret the stigma related findings, while social capital theory illuminated the role of trust, reciprocity, and collective engagement in faith-based mental health support. The findings indicate that faith based motivations, personal reasons, and opportunities for community engagement drive individuals to volunteer, reflecting the significance of bonding social capital. Volunteers drew strength and motivation from their shared faith and collective mission, reinforcing trust and solidarity within the church. However, there was tension between the benefits of strong social capital, such as mutual support and collaboration, and the potential limitations, including resource constraints and the emotional toll of addressing complex mental health needs. The study revealed that while faith-based organisations provided mental health support, this provision is affected by intersectionality, highlighting that the experiences of stigma and access to care are not uniform but are shaped by the complex interplay of individuals multiple social identities (race, gender, and sexuality) within the church communities. Bonding social capital, characterised by strong internal networks, facilitated a sense of belonging and shared purpose among volunteers, it also posed limitations, such as emotional strain and resistance to external perspectives on mental health. Conclusion: This research contributes to the growing discourse on faith-based mental health interventions, particularly within church communities in Northern Ireland. The findings emphasised the need for structured support systems for clergy and volunteers engaged in mental health support. Key recommendations include developing mental health education and training programmes for church leaders and volunteers, fostering open discussions to challenge stigma, implementing supervision mechanisms to prevent volunteer burnout. By addressing these areas, churches can enhance their role as community-based mental health support providers, fostering inclusive and stigma-free environments.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

PhD

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

Doctoral

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

De Montfort University

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Okoye, Victoria Chinyere

Licence

• https://dora.dmu.ac.uk/bitstreams/85be7004-c151-4039-8bd3-2d81e15676fd/download