Q: My son has struggled with clinical depression since his middle school years. He sees a psychiatrist monthly and a therapist every other week. Since he's interested in a Christian college, I want him to find one that will help him with his mental health issues. I have run into far too many Christians who don't believe in therapy and medication for depression. How do I find a school that will accept his mental illness and help him thrive?
A: Christian colleges are seeing more and more students with issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders and attention deficit disorders.
In my experience, most Christian colleges have professional counseling centers with well-trained Christian counselors. These personnel are skilled in the latest therapeutic techniques and know how to integrate their practice with a solid biblical worldview. They can accurately diagnose psychological issues and then develop treatment plans that effectively address these issues therapeutically and spiritually.
As you look into prospective schools, I would suggest you first contact the director of each school's counseling center regarding their approach to depression. Don't be afraid to ask the hard questions. Be clear about your concerns. When you plan your college visits, set up a meeting with the director of counseling and the dean of students. Use the meeting to talk through a strategy that would help your son thrive on campus and in the greater college community. I believe that after a few of these meetings, you'll identify good fits for your son.
Written by Skip Trudeau
