by Robert C. Veil, Jr.
The state of mental health in America is at all-time dangerous levels. Some sources report
that as many as one-fifth (21%) of American adults now experience serious mental health issues.
That’s over 50 million people! On a global scale, more than 300 million people of all ages
worldwide suffer with depression (according to the World Health Organization). And in the United
States alone, the number of people diagnosed with depression is increasing by 30 percent every
year.
People struggling with poor mental health are more likely to suffer unnecessary disability,
unemployment, patterns of substance abuse, dysfunctional families and interpersonal issues, poor
quality of life, homelessness, incarceration, and even suicide. Some of these mental issues include
depression, anxiety, loss and bereavement, suicidal thoughts and ideations, as well as countless
forms of addiction.
Christians are not immune from mental health problems, although they do have special
resources at their disposal for effectively dealing with them. And they are in a much better position
to practice and maintain habits of strong mental health.
On October 5 & 6, 2024, the Central Church of Christ is offering a special seminar to help
address and reverse some of these alarming trends of declining mental health. In a convenient,
two-day format, Dr. Ryan Fraser will speak on the theme, Overcoming the Blues: The Christian
and Strong Mental Health. The seminar will feature three targeted sessions on Saturday, and three
on Sunday, for a total of six presentations, presented in a non-threatening manner by one of the
nation’s leading mental health experts.
As an associate professor of Bible and pastoral counseling
as well as a youth and family ministry educator, minister, and
licensed clinical pastoral therapist, Dr. Fraser has observed the
prevalence of depression in the church and the need for qualified
caregivers. In his book, Overcoming the Blues: Finding Christ-
Centered Hope and Joy through Serving Others, Dr. Fraser
provides a revolutionary roadmap to wellness for those suffering
with depression by focusing on three vital areas: (1) God’s
presence, (2) serving others, and (3) respecting limitations. He
holds a Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Master of Ministry, Master
of Divinity, and a Ph.D. in Pastoral Theology and Pastoral
Counseling from Brite Divinity School at Texas Christian
University (2010).
Ordinarily, sessions of this type are expensive to attend, and
often available only at some distance from home. The Central Church of Christ is pleased to
present these lessons at our convenient location at 90 Waverly Court, Martinsburg, WV 25403.
Admission is free, but seating is limited, so make your plans now to attend. The Saturday Sessions
are at 10:00, 11:00 & 12:45. A lunch will be provided without charge to all attendees at 11:45. On
Sunday, the three sessions will be at out regular meeting times, 9:45 and 10:45, with a final session
at 1:30. Lunch will be provided at 12 noon.
The Central Church of Christ has been a positive and beneficial force in our community for
many years. Conducting three services weekly in addition to numerous special events, the church
is known for clear and strong Bible preaching and teaching, respect for families and our nation,
and thoughtful and caring assistance to the community. Each year, the church conducts a free
Vacation Bible School for all ages, a large-scale clothing giveaway, complimentary Picnic in the
Park, and many other programs of service to our area.
If you struggle with any of these issues, or if you would like to be of service to others who
do, don’t miss this special seminar with Dr. Ryan Fraser. Overcoming the Blues: The Christian
and Strong Mental Health, Oct. 5 & 6. We look forward to greeting you here!
Toward Stronger Mental Health
