According to Medical News Today, mental health stigma refers to society’s disapproval or when society places shame on people who live with a mental illness or seek help for emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD.
Individuals may feel the pressure of mental health stigma not just from society in general, but also more personally from friends, family, and coworkers. They may feel judged as lazy or cowardly. The fear of being labeled as “crazy,” “nuts,” or “out of their mind” all too often prevents people from seeking the support they need from a therapist or counselor. None of these characterizations are supported by any objective proof.
Pathfinders Pastoral Care Ministries has established the R4 Project with the vision of creating environments that are accepting, compassionate, and supportive communities equipped to help carry the burdens of those living with mental health issues. The objectives of the R4 Project are to relieve the suffering of those impacted by mental health issues, reveal Jesus to them, relate to their family and support networks, and, ultimately, restore their lives.
Through the R4 Project, we are committed to reducing the impact of mental health stigma through the education of individuals, businesses, organizations, and churches. Dr. Kevin is a sought-after speaker and consultant. He is passionate about revealing to audiences the truth about mental health issues, that recovery is possible, and that stigma and shame serve no healing purposes. Through compassion and insight, everyone can be empowered to transform lives and communities.
Jesus is the ultimate Healer, “And he healed every kind of disease and illness. News about him spread as far as Syria, and people soon began bringing to him all who were sick. And whatever their sickness or disease… he healed them all” - Matthew 4:23b, 24 (NLT).
We invite you to contact us to learn more about hosting Dr. Kevin for a presentation, sermon, keynote, panel, or other type of speaking engagement.
R4 – Relieve, Reveal, Relate, Restore
