Jehovah's Witnesses Horrifying History of Counsel on Mental Illness

Under Jesus Christ direction, the 'faithful slave,' otherwise known as the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses, has had a lot to say about mental illness. Consider some of their irresponsible 'counsel' to those enduring a painful and complex problem.

[@heathergriggs4463]

I had a friend say "it would be great if people at the door would listen to us, then they wouldn't be so depressed". I looked at her and said, "what about all the depressed witnesses?". She didn't know what to say, she has witness family members on medication for depression! I don't even know what she was thinking.

[@theresefournier3269]

Obedient slaves know better than to use their own intuition, critical right brain or thinking, They trust whatever the governing body which they are made to see as god on eart-h, and never their own h-eart ❤

[@damonrandall9844]

It’s funny that the JW’s will claim to have “The best life ever”, while they need to have the best medication ever.

[@adamantiumbullet9215]

Plus, lots of JWs self-medicate with alcohol. A sure sign of a happy JW is one that drinks all the time just to get through the day.

[@christinesotelo7655]

@@theresefournier3269that’s really clever; earth and heart, same word arranged slightly differently. ❤

[@christinesotelo7655]

It’s important to find a good therapist or doctor though, who specializes in religious trauma. You can tell early on if the doctor is good enough. I went to one once to talk about JW things and he said: “Oh! They are such great people! What could possibly be wrong?” He said, “I have a wonderful JW client.” I never went back because I figured false faces of indoctrinated smiles and niceness would far outweigh my depression and suicidal ideation. He’d probably tell me to be like her. It’s important to shop around for the best for your situation. If a therapist is going to sit across from you and draw pictures the whole time you release your suffering, forget that too. They call it “weaving”-they doodle while you talk. You deserve a true Listener and Mentor.

[@JayneMueller-w9l]

This organisation is still so dangerous when it comes to the mishandling of advice regarding mental health issues amongst jws, and in other ways in my opinion. My husband was abused most of his childhood by his JW parents. It has affected our married life for many years, and my husband's mental health. We took it to the elders years later. The usual line was, it's historical abuse, we can't do anything about it, but my point is, none of them showed any love, empathy, understanding or sympathy. It was the biggest mistake of our lives taking this to elders. One elder told us to just Let it go. I can't tell you how this impacted our lives. We were stunned by their lack of all of the above. Any JWS watching Stacie's brilliant podcasts, expect nothing from your elders. I wonder if they are taught to just emotionally shut down from showing any emotion to people who suffer from mental health disorders. That's our experience anyway. It was just mind-blowing.

[@adamantiumbullet9215]

*"It was the biggest mistake of our lives taking this to elders."* There's no problem that Elders can't make worse. MUCH worse. Trust me.

[@christinesotelo7655]

The Elders are too young or older ones, too inexperienced. They have no Counseling Degress or Credentials, no Licenses to practice, and nothing to say but scripture lines they’ve been saying for years. Their advice circles around Jehovah in all things, headship of the man, submission of the woman, order in the home, and complete attachment to the WT. it is very dangerous for one to feel cornered, that they have no options.

[@adamantiumbullet9215]

@christinesotelo Imagine how worse things will become for JWs, considering WT has authorized 18 year-old boys to be appointed as elders.

[@christinesotelo7655]

@@adamantiumbullet9215 Not even 21 years old? 18 year old: “Well, Mrs. Smit, go home and bake an apple pie. That always used to work for Great Granny. Maybe have a baby. Look it up in the magazines, they really have some super-duper articles on how to “endure to the end”!”

[@JayneMueller-w9l]

Who in the right mind is going to ask a teenager for advice on anything, maybe if I need my mobile phone setting up for me, mind you my 6 year old granddaughter could do that, and they say, that Jesus is running things. I don't think so.

[@sharonwoodward7741]

I remember when I was having a breakdown in the mid 90's the elders told me that I needed to read the Bible more, pray more and do more on the preaching work. I was already a pioneer so what more could I do. The elders said that those who are not happy in the service clearly are not spiritually strong enough. This was the beginning of the end for me. I eventually stopped pioneering and started to feel better for it. Then I went to see a specialist behind the elders backs and the treatment helped me so much I was happy again. I also had started to fad so by 2000 I was no longer a regular at the meetings. And I was coping very well with my mental health. No more pushing myself to a level that was impossible. I no longer needed to price myself to anyone. I saw that non witnesses excepted you as you were and were very supportive of mental health. I am so much more happy now than I was in the cult. I still get depression but it's easier to cope with it outside the cult than being in the cult.

[@leogolive]

The fact that you felt you had to seek out professional help “behind their backs” as you say is just horrible. I’m glad you’re better and free from the foolishness.

[@theresefournier3269]

YAHsome in-DEED ❤

[@theresefournier3269]

​@@leogoliveFor sure💯🌞🌹🔥❤️

[@BadViking1]

@@sharonwoodward7741 I had the same

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

So sorry Sharon! But I'm glad it helped you wake up to their terrible conduct! They're very non-supportive of those chronically suffering and even try to avoid them! NONE of their answers work at all...and it's more complex than anything they understand

[@BadViking1]

Once I was suffering from panic attacks I approached an elder for help All he said was " You're young You will get over it"

[@TheropodHunter]

Yup, he sounds like he wasn't interested in helping you. I had to learn about methods to treat anxiety myself, one of which was introducing myself to herbal teas, like peppermint and ashwagandha.

[@christinesotelo7655]

Meditation helps, soft soul-reaching music, and just knowing that if you get away from the abusive religion, you’ll prove your mastery over temporary panic attacks.

[@BadViking1]

@ I don’t get panic attacks anymore Only my bipolar stands in the way

[@christinesotelo7655]

@@BadViking1 thanks God Bipolar is one of the easiest challenges to resolve with the right meds. Lots of people experience bipolar. WT knows NOTHING of the sufferings of people. In fact, I think other people’s “problems” make them feel superior, like: “just get over it. Here. Read about Job in the OT of the NWT and pray.” Sure, they want your money to go to them, not to necessities to make your own life better. God bless you, sincerely.

[@BadViking1]

@ Thank you for your encouragement and support

[@Adventurers360-p6z]

I often listen to your podcasts and this one has really made me think of my life before and after becoming a jw. I have left them. I had emotional issues but I feel they intensified after joining them. I always trust seeking their help but was always pushed to the bible or threatened. I fell into serious trouble and disassociated😢. I have since recieved the help I needed after all the years . Thankyou fir the discussion😊

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

Thank you for being here! So sorry for what you've been through....so glad you're free, even if it was a painful exit.....the peace of mind is worth it!

[@Adventurers360-p6z]

@@survivingparadisepodcast thanks very much. Kevin. Uk

[@heatherwillson4862]

NEVER go to elders for help. They will hurt you. They have zero training in mental health & lots of training in narcissism & you are guaranteed to have issues with that belief system.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

YES....I hope any JW sees this post and listens. NEVER go to an elder for ANYTHING.....EVER

[@TheC.O.-VISIT]

Thanks for this timely, spot on criticism, Stacey. I'm going through a tough time with my daughter who recently disassociated and is experiencing the shunning from her mother and family. She recently attempted against her life and was hospitalized. No one went to visit her, no one helped her. Her aunts and uncles (all JWs) said "she probably did it because of boyfriend problems". Yeah, nice defense mechanism there. Total denial. The Watchtower organization is 100% at fault for not preparing their followers on how to deal with this and discouraging professional help.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

OMG I'm SO sorry....I'm so glad she has you to lean on!!!! Breaks my heart to see young people think that is the answer to so much pain! They're TERRIBLE....and dangerous....lots of love and hugs to your family!!!!

[@JohnSimmons-o2v]

The THREAT of excommunication Or disassociation can cause anyone To have generalized anxiety disorder.😮

[@JohnSimmons-o2v]

JESUS will never Forsake or Desert The Poor in Spirit - The Pure in Heart.❤️

[@wallyparachnowitsch324]

Except for the CSA abused children, third world countries , the homeless including seniors, etc,etc,etc

[@JohnSimmons-o2v]

Don't forget the MARTYRS who Are at REST with JESUS - Now . 😊

[@adamantiumbullet9215]

@@wallyparachnowitsch324 John obviously doesn't care about any of the valid points you raised. He's here to preach about his imaginary friend who can't do anything for anybody.

[@JohnSimmons-o2v]

We'll SEE about that LATER, won't we?😁

[@RussellCardenas-f6d]

Bi-polar here and how they handle it is atrocious.

[@BadViking1]

@@RussellCardenas-f6d They treated me badly too I suffer from bipolar also

[@Melchizedek11]

😮 medications??😢

[@Melchizedek11]

😮 medications??😢

[@christinesotelo7655]

The Elders “frown on” meds or professional doctors and therapists.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

Thanks for being here Russell.....I have a very best friend who deals with bi-polar disorder....I've actually taken him to the hosptial and sat with him. Totally understand!

[@sharonparmelee9633]

Extra BP pill necessary for me today!!I I retired from working in mental health, after walking away from this organzation many years ago. I learned so much about myself and was able to learn how to make ME feel like a semi-happy human again..... I saw sooo many JW's in the 20 yrs I worked in that profession......it was so very sad!!!!! Thank you Stacy, for this episode.....The elders had NO BUSINESS "helping" folks who were having marital problems OR mental health problems......so much harm was done.....many of these poor guys were well aware they were not equipped for either of those serious problems but were caught between a rock and a hard spot, as my dad, the elder, once told me!!

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

Thank you Sharon!!! I'm so glad you're doing better....It's a daily battle for many, but exposing ourselves to lies and religious trauma is poison! They're NOT equipped to help anyone....prayer and reading an ancient book does not work. Your dad sounds like me when I was an elder!

[@damonrandall9844]

I loved this podcast Stacey! Watchtower has no business to even presume to recommend JWs receive counsel from elders for mental illness. Not only that but it is irresponsible and dangerous to do so. The rank and file need to realize that when elders leave the Kingdom Hall they are just plumbers or electricians and are not to be sought for therapy. I’d never even dream of talking to a window washer, especially one who’s only 21 years old. Their criticism of actual therapists and psychiatrists is such an insult and truly an affront to the profession and the people who need help from it. It pisses me off because I would not be alive today or at least I’d be a complete wreck if not for the care I received from these invaluable doctors! Thank you for giving this subject the utmost seriousness it deserves!

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

So well said!!! Imagine a 21 year old handling this stuff!??!:! INSANE. They have NO business being involved and I discourage any JW from EVER approaching an elder about this!~

[@JustWakeUp2704]

Good highlights and great episode. ❤

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

Thank you!!

[@JustWakeUp2704]

@ you’re welcome.

[@tellusorbit]

Thank you so much for this kind, empathetic and loving podcast. I was strengthened by it, and am sharing it with others. Let me also say that the reason many Witnesses turn to congregation elders for help with mental health issues is because they have bought into the lie that these men have been appointed to their positions by holy spirit, and that holy spirit will be used to end their pain. That is the same reasoning used to justify "removing" people from the congregation and destroying any social network they may have. Combining these two factors, is it any wonder that we see an increase in violent rampages, murder and suicide in this cult? It shouldn't surprise any thinking person.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

Thank you SO much!!! I'm so glad anything I share can help someone! They offer NOTHING but maybe a hearing ear, but aren't remotely qualified to help someone suffering. They need help and they should always seek it. We have to take care of each other and help anyone! I'm not in the least bit shocked by the surge in violent reactions from those suffering......coupled with shunning......a DISASTER for mental health

[@EXITjwDISRESPECT-d9b]

Your podcast is exactly why I left this abusive religion. I still listen to the weekly Sunday meeting on zoom. It is my therapy for trying to CLEAR my scrambled mental health. Yesterday's talk was how to simply let things go when you get abused by someone in the congregation. Specifically focused on 2 sisters that had a disagreement and how it was upsetting the entire JW clan. Followed up with the WT study of how wonderful the hardworking elders are in the congregation. Then more information on how the young males should be considered for higher positions even if they cannot SPEAK or READ well. If this caustic religion is allowed to continue much longer, I can picture the believers being told to get on their knees and bow down to all the hardworking men in this ____. (fill in the blank)

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

I'm VERY glad you're somewhat limited in any association with them...and doing what YOU need to do to care for yourself. Ignoring abuse is one of their favorites... they're mentally abusing people ever single meeting. Big hugs to you and I hope you're finding some peace.....it's such a journey!

[@craigwilliams3823]

It's unfair to the elders that they don't have a policy where they can recommend a publisher seek professional help or counseling. That's a reflection on corporate.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

I agree. And here is the thing: they're legally protecting the organization from any/all outcomes.....make no mistake

[@BelindaJulia]

Great episode! Thank you so much.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

Thank YOU!

[@pamelaruth7400]

This effected my life in such huge ways. My mom was never diagnosed or treated for any mental healt. She was abusive physically emotionally and verbally. She was severely depressed. She had severe panic attacks. She went to the elders for everything. She took their advice as if Jehovah himself was instructing her. She explained it to me this way. If she needed a doctor for mental health it meant to her she had failed Jehovah. I tried to unalive myself at 14. I had severe anxiety depression trauma but I was offered no help. I eventually took myself to get treatment at 22 years of age.. I thank you Stacey for shining light on this.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

HUGE HUGS to you Pamela!!!! I'm SO sorry for all you and your mother have been through....terrible. They pile guilt on an already painful situation. I hope you're living happily now!

[@cindyjohnson7883]

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟👏👏👏👏👏Bravo!! Thank you! 💪💪🥇🏆

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

Thank you Cindy!

[@cindyjohnson7883]

@survivingparadisepodcast kindly welcome 🤗

[@Beautyrest575]

I know I told this before. But I asked the circuit overseers wife what she sees is the biggest problem in our circuit. I thought of course sexual immorality, but she said it was depression!! So you are right with your topic. It’s a bigger problem, I think, then we really know.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

Wow, she was being so honest! It really is depression....and it is made so much worse by the religion!

[@janespitfire9884]

I do not understand why people let uneducated and unexperience JW elders into private matters (health and sex)in their lives. My sister used to be a JW pioneer who was told if depressed you are demonized! Thus better act happy and pray.

[@christinesotelo7655]

Exactly what I was told. Made the problem worse in that I didn’t fear demons but when they said that, I did.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

I highly discourage ANY contact with elders about ANYTHING.....completely unqualified for any of it

[@rdhawk929]

All I ever got from "spiritually mature older men" was a "pray about it". And their wives too.

[@achys6301]

Or leave it in jehovahs hands, after they got the scoop, of course.

[@rdhawk929]

And of course the old put in more field service and study time, which amounts to more underlining in your study books and bible.

[@adamantiumbullet9215]

Prayer: the alternative to actually doing anything.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

It's so true.... it solves 'every' problem.... they have NO clue and should not be involved in anyone's pain or mental health

[@jackijax505]

For tonight cyber menu, by a most excellent request, there will be a mouth watering Mexican feast & a spectacular Margarita Fountain. Indulge your taste buds in some Carnitas, Beef, pork, chicken or shrimp taco’s, Cheesy enchiladas, Pozole de pollo, Ceviche, a time honored mexican Rice, Creamy Frijoles, Gorditas with Chile Verde shredded beef and potatoes, fully loaded Steak Burritos, Carne Asada Tortas, crispy chips with our classic salsa and guacamole dips & more. Then quench your thirst at the Margarita Fountain, flowing with three well defined flavors of our Classic Lime, Pineapple or Strawberry. Grab your extra large chinette plates, your margarita glasses & head on over to the Paradise Lounge where we’ll enjoy tonight’s music, featuring “Stacey & the Survivors” with “Noah & the Arkettes. 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼

[@Christine-we8np]

Its Monday night here in Australia and l had Mexican for lunch today does that mean l beat you to the banquet

[@JohnSimmons-o2v]

Who knew that Stacey was a singer And Noah was a bandleader at The Paradise Lounge ??? 😂😂😂😂

[@Daniel-wd4jg]

Oh Si'! Con Mariachi's!

[@adamantiumbullet9215]

Oh, my! You outdid yourself with today's menu. I can taste the made-from-scratch red enchilada sauce right now. Do you mind if I sit close to you as we sip margaritas and discuss in hushed and reverent tones the sopapillas I'll be making for dessert?

[@adamantiumbullet9215]

I prefer Noah's prior band: "Fictional Noah and The Flood Myths".

[@Melchizedek11]

😢😢😢it hurts 😭😭😭 ...

[@BooBooBugalugs]

Doesn't it just😢

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

It does hurt, you're NOT alone!!!

[@adamantiumbullet9215]

A psychologist is NOT qualified to help a JW. However, an Elder who's a janitor is.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

this.....100%

[@damonrandall9844]

@@adamantiumbullet9215 This reminds of the movie “Waiting” when the wait staff of the restaurant would go to the dishwasher named Bishop at his station for psychological counseling. It was hilarious😂

[@AZrakoon]

35:50 I approached a 25 yo elder, and he really did not want to talk to me when i was feeling down. I feel healed now, that im POMO.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

Damn, I'm SO sorry...horrible. A 25 year old kid has NO business dealing with something so painful and complex. I hope you're finding comfort now!

[@AZrakoon]

@survivingparadisepodcast thanks! I'm doing great now! I'm living life on my own terms.

[@TheropodHunter]

I developed aniety around 2011-12, and I wasn't diagnosed until 2019. 2016 was when I was at my most severe.

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

Big hugs to you.....once you've experienced it, you know how debilitiating it can be! I hope you're finding medical help and being good to yourself!

[@TheropodHunter]

@survivingparadisepodcast Thanks, Stacey, I'm doing a whole lot better now, and despite my family continuously talking about the imminent occurrence of Armageddon, I no longer silently fret about it in my head. Now I just internally roll my eyes.

[@adamantiumbullet9215]

The Jehovah's Witnesses' Official Mental Health "Help" Program: pray "Leave it in Jehovah's Hands" start Pioneering study Watchtower literature more ask an Elder for help so you can feel even worse about yourself than you do now just visualize paradise. It's coming "soon"

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

Yep..... it never changes!

[@randyg.7940]

Hello😂

[@jackijax505]

Dang it … you beat me. 😂😂

[@randyg.7940]

​@@jackijax505 yeah.not sure how it happened

[@AnnekeWoodhouse]

What an amazingly wonderful banquet of delicious food - all seneraded by " Noah & "Arkadites" ( sp?) - simply very cleverly thoughtful - all helps to give peace to our minds and our souls whilst on our recovery journey. 😊 Hugest thanks from NZ

[@achys6301]

Is it gaulding

[@mattmurdock2868]

Facts regarding cult of Watchtower. Higher than National: Rates of divorce. Rates of depression. Rates of family separation due to shunning. Rates of suicide. Watchtower is a bad tree, bearing bad fruit.

[@adamantiumbullet9215]

Adding to your list, JWs have the highest attrition rate of any religion JWs are the poorest people of any religion JWs are the least educated of any religion

[@christinesotelo7655]

Yes. Those are the facts! And growing!😢

[@survivingparadisepodcast]

This! All true...... and overlooked by JWs

[@Obudzona_]

🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉