Mental Health: Ezekiel on Resilience, Healing & Hope | Perspectives FUMCSD Pastors Podcast S3E40
Jun 28, 2026
Summary
According to WHO, 1 in 8 adults globally face mental health challenges. And yet, it remains a taboo topic in many communities. Join Rev. Dr. Brittany Juliette Hanlin and Sheilah Cameron, LMFT, as they unpack and challenge the stigmas associated with mental health – especially within faith communities – by looking at the experience of Ezekiel, one of the major prophets of the Old Testament.
Detail
According to WHO, 1 in 8 adults globally face mental health challenges. And yet, it remains a taboo topic in many communities.
Join Rev. Dr. Brittany Juliette Hanlin and Sheilah Cameron, LMFT, as they unpack and challenge the stigmas associated with mental health – especially within faith communities – by looking at the experience of Ezekiel, one of the major prophets of the Old Testament.
This is Episode 3 of "Taking Care of Mind, Body & Spirit," a five-part series exploring modern wellness challenges through the wisdom of Scripture. This conversation is for anyone struggling with isolation, depletion, shame, generational trauma, negative self-talk, and mental health challenges—as well as those who want to better understand the burdens others carry.
Inspired by Ezekiel 4:1–8, this conversation explores Ezekiel’s experience of exile, embodied burden, and prophetic responsibility—and how those themes connect to mental health and emotional challenges today. Topics include:
- The isolation leaders and caregivers can feel when carrying responsibility for others
- Generational trauma and how inherited pain can shape stress responses
- The connection between shame, guilt, self-talk, and mental health
- Why suffering is not a badge of honor or shame
- The need for rest, boundaries, assertiveness, and self-advocacy
- Caring for yourself so you can continue caring for your community
This series features conversations with the women pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego and Sheilah Cameron, Director of New Life Counseling Center. Join them over five weeks as they explore information overload, purpose fatigue, mental health, grief, and identity through the lens of biblical prophets.
Reflection Questions
- How do you recognize when your responsibilities have become too heavy, and what signs tell you that you need rest or support?
- What healthy boundaries can you establish to care for yourself while still remaining compassionate toward others?
- How might God be inviting you to acknowledge pain honestly rather than carrying it in silence?
Join the Conversation
Whether you're a lifelong Christian, exploring progressive Christianity, deconstructing faith, or simply seeking a deeper spiritual foundation, we invite you to reflect alongside us:
- Convergence discussion group on Sundays at 12 PM
- Online Patreon community to connect with other listeners
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction: Mental health, stigma, and the church
00:53 Ezekiel 4,1-8 Bible Reading
02:38 Ezekiel, pressure, and chronic stress
06:29 Caregiving, leadership, and burnout
08:26 Generational trauma and the ACEs study
12:37 Trauma and the nervous system
15:47 Shame vs. guilt
18:09 Self-talk and mental health
29:42 Boundaries and community care
32:38:15 Final thoughts, reflection, and closing encouragement
Please note: This conversation is for reflection and encouragement and is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you are struggling, consider reaching out to a licensed counselor, trusted support person, or crisis resource in your area, such as the New Life Counseling Center, a mental health ministry of First United Methodist Church of San Diego.
