As Christians, it can be hard to admit that you need support for your mental well being, but there is a strength that comes from it. Here are just a few reasons why you should seek counseling as a Christian.

For many Christians, the topic of mental health is considered taboo. It can feel shameful to think of yourself as weak. Perhaps you feel that needing or wanting extra support for your mental well-being somehow cancels out your faith.

Our faith is at the core of who we are.

It determines how we act, who we surround ourselves with, and our overall happiness levels. It is what we turn to when life gets a little bit too much to handle. When things feel as if they are crashing down around us. Faith is our solace in times of suffering.

As we grow up, we are all influenced by the people around us. Starting with our immediate families, their behaviors, emotions, and actions have an impact on us. It is, after all, how we learn. We learn and model our own lives, from an early age, from those around us. Even when we are trying to be the exact opposite of who they were, their presence still affected us.

Recovering from hurt done by the church, in any capacity, is hard. It often shakes our faith and our belief in the power of connection we have with other people. It doesn't have to stay that way.

When our souls feel lost, it is hard to feel okay. Although we try hard, we can't seem to shake the feeling of hopelessness. As if everything and anything could go wrong, at any second.

Many Christians believe that when there is doubt, or fear, that it automatically disqualifies them from Christianity.  The image of a "perfect " Christian is embedded into our minds. It's the image of someone who has it all together. Some whose faith is unwavering and certain.

Are you on the fence about going to a Christian counselor? In the past, you may have spoken with a pastor or other church member, only to feel more alone than before.

The church can provide many opportunities for healing and personal growth. However, it is also a place where we can feel judged and not accepted by the community members. Many people have been hurt by the church in the past, either directly or indirectly.

Searching for a Christian counselor that you trust can feel like a challenge. You want to make sure that whomever you choose will treat you with respect, compassion and honor your values. If you are a member of a church, you have likely discussed the challenges you are facing with your pastor or another church leader.