Theology and Mental Health

This course addresses the theological questions prompted by the experience of mental health
issues, as well as the practical pastoral concerns involved in addressing psychological disorder. It
will consider broad theological themes of embodiment, experience, language, healing, and the
church, deepening concepts of what it means to be human in order to better address the complex questions raised by mental health issues. These discussions will frame engagement with particular modes of suffering including depression, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar, addiction(s), and eating disorders. Readings will be drawn from leading theologians as well as clinical literature, and lectures will add a further level of reflection by introducing key philosophical concepts and questions from the field of phenomenological psychopathology.

This course fulfils either the theology or practical ministry elective for students in the Priesthood or Diaconate Certificate.