New Pew research study on religion and mental health isn’t all too surprising

Opinion | By Easton Martin | March 12, 2026

According to Pew Research, conservatives who attend church weekly are the least likely to have ever been diagnosed with a mental health condition. Only 8% of this group reports a diagnosis. Liberals who have low attendance are the most likely to have a diagnosis at 28%. This gap raises questions about whether these groups face a stigma or fear of judgment. It also suggests that regular religious practice is good for a person. Both factors are probably at play in these communities.

​There is a stigma in some Christian circles regarding mental health. Some people believe that mental illness is only a spiritual issue. They think that God is all you need for conditions like anxiety or ADHD. However, we must not ignore the spiritual dimension of our lives. Following Jesus and being indwelt by the Holy Spirit is a path to wellness. 

If you feel intense anxiety, you should bring that to God first. You should also share these struggles with trusted people in your life. It is advisable to see if spiritual changes need to be made.

​At the same time, many mental conditions are unrelated to anything spiritual. We live in a fallen world where our brains and bodies suffer. Anxiety is in many cases a physiological problem. It is not wrong to seek medical treatment for these conditions. 

While not a frequently discussed topic, some Christian academics have indeed written good material on the topic. In his book “Finding Quiet,” Christian philosopher J.P. Moreland discusses his own battle with anxiety. He explores how Christians should think about these struggles. He also shares what he personally did to find relief.

​True health involves both spiritual devotion and a recognition of our physical frailty. We should strive for a community that supports both the soul and the body.