Clergy and Mental Health Issues
Alix Sandman (Social Work)
The gatekeepers : an evaluation of clergy knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding mental health issues, collaboration, and referral to treatment
The data from which this analysis originates is part of a an evaluation project which was designed to assess how clergy from various denominations collaborate with mental health service providers and refer church members to needed services. A survey of 215 clergy in Kent County, Michigan was conducted to gain a better understanding of clergy knowledge and perceptions of mental illness and their willingness to make referrals to mental health professionals. Initial frequencies, bivariate and Chi-square analyses were conducted using SPSS v. 16. Findings indicate that, compared to Caucasian clergy, ethnic minority clergy were less willing to make referrals and collaborate with mental health professionals. Less educated and minority clergy may benefit from additional training in mental health education and referral to treatment. It is further recommended that treatment providers strengthen connections with minority clergy by educating and collaborating with them around mental health education, support and referral.