Date of Award

Summer 2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

College

Barnett College of Ministry & Theology

Department

Department of Christian Ministries and Religion

Primary Advisor

Dr. Larry E. Hazelbaker

Second Advisor

Dr. Gloria Morrow

Third Advisor

Dr. Jeremy Sims

Abstract

Although mental health is an emerging topic within the church community, the stigmatization of mental illness within ministers’ lives can create a myriad of personal beliefs that can lead to shame and discontent in ministers’ lives. Many ministers have daily stressors that compromise their mental health, and these stressors can contribute to depression or anxiety. This study defined mental health issues and described mental illness’ influence on ministers’ lives and the factors that contribute to mental health issues. This health condition, described as mental illness, involves significant changes in thinking, emotion, behavior, distress, and problems functioning in social, work, or family activities.1 The sample of ministers in Central Florida identified shared factors contributing to mental health challenges. This study investigated disorders defined in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual on Mental Health Disorders, 5th ed., specifically those that focus on anxiety and depression.


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