Recent insights from former pastors and researchers indicate that a study by Barna revealing one in five pastors have contemplated self-harm or suicide over the past year should urge churches to prioritize daily support for their leaders. The survey indicated that 18% of senior Protestant pastors reported having such thoughts during the previous year. Additionally, nearly half (47%) expressed feelings of loneliness or isolation.
“These statistics are striking,” said Joe Jensen, a former pastor and senior vice president at Barna, while speaking to Crosswalk headlines.
This focus on pastoral well-being comes at a time when May recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month. There was some positive news in the survey; most of the pastors who experienced these thoughts described them as fleeting. Still, the results highlight significant, often overlooked needs.
“As a pastor, you might seem connected to people simply by being around them,” he remarked. “Yet many pastors fulfill their roles without truly benefitting from the community they lead, given the nature of their work.”
Jensen pointed out the considerable expectations tied to the pastoral role.
“What occurs when you’re not part of a close community or friendships, and you lack reliable mentoring and guidance? It’s bound to happen; they’re human. Pastors sometimes forget they’re individuals grappling with the same challenges as everyone else. The pressures from the expectations placed on them can lead them to feel they must constantly perform and keep their lives in order. This often drives them to withdraw,” he added.
On a typical Sunday, many pastors are expected to project that they have everything under control, Jensen explained.
“What we’re witnessing is a troubling cycle that can culminate in pastors feeling overwhelmed, with some even considering giving up,” he said.
There’s a pressing need for the broader faith community to redefine what success looks like for pastors, Jensen emphasized.
“The metrics established around success often push pastors to chase external validation at the expense of their inner health,” he noted.
He stressed that church leaders must become more proactive in fostering pastors’ well-being.
“It’s crucial for church elders and boards to consider how they can better support their pastors’ overall health,” he posited.
Furthermore, he argued that church budgets should prioritize pastoral care.
“Often, resources are primarily allocated to ministries, programs, and outreach. While these areas are important, none of it will work if the pastor and their team aren’t well,” he reasoned.
While he acknowledged the value of Christian counseling, Jensen suggested it isn’t the sole solution. Pastors also need mentorship and peer support.
“I won’t necessarily open up to my congregation about my deepest struggles, but I know there are many other pastors nearby. Creating connections within the local pastoral community can provide crucial support. In my area, I have a solid network of fellow pastors I can meet for coffee and discussion,” he said.
It was originally published on May 15th, 2025.
