Freed from Shame - Dawn Holmes
Addressing the stigma of mental illness in the church
One in every four people in your church will be affected by mental illness each year.
‘Freed From Shame‘ sheds light on the reality of mental illness in the Church, not to condemn people, leaders or churches, but instead to offer insight, education and practical advice on how to tackle this challenging subject. The book looks at what mental health issues are and how they affect those who live with them, with real life stories and suggestions on how the church can create a supportive environment.
"I have people in my church struggling with mental health. You do too. This book is an invaluable tool in learning how to understand, how to help and how to love." [Mark Landreth-Smith, Pastor, Bridge Church - Newbury, UK]
What’s in this book?
‘Freed From Shame’ has been written to shed light on the reality of mental illness in the Church, not to condemn people, leaders or churches but, instead, to offer insight, education and practical advice on how to tackle this challenging subject. The book is written with user-friendly language, making it accessible to all. There are three sections in the book.
UNDERSTANDING MENTAL HEALTH
A better awareness of mental health and what happens when it goes wrong, including specific conditions and what it’s like to live life in their shadow.
BEING UNDERSTOOD
Real life stories that share experiences, help others to feel they’re not alone, and bring some reality to the everyday challenges that mental illness brings.
EQUIPPING THE CHURCH
Insight into practical approaches to remove stigma surrounding mental illness in the Church, and how to create a supportive environment.
Dawn Holmes
Biography
Dawn lives in Somerset with her husband, Colin, and they have five grown-up children, some of whom have flown the nest, and some who keep flying back! They have been part of a Newfrontiers church for many years and serve in a variety of ways. Dawn enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading and dabbling in papercrafts.
Her interest in mental health has grown as increasing numbers of people spoke with her regarding the Church‘s response, prompting her to become an author.
Review 22.08.18
This small book is an absolute must for any Christian.
It clearly and accurately explains common mental health diagnoses.
True stories from Christians about their experience in the church are heartwrenching to read, and illuminating into how far we have to go.
The final section on equipping the church is practical, clear, and do-able, with suggestions given by people who have experienced mental ill health or who care for others.
I'm glad I bought it, and I am recommending it to people all the time.
