Find verses that explore mental health in the Bible, as well as verses to encourage you and give you strength if you’re struggling.
Though the Bible does not reference the words ‘mental health’ directly, there are Bible verses about mental health that are implied from the Old Testament to the New Testament. The Bible follows people who deal with pain, negative thoughts, anxiety and worry. It gives us a window into those times and how they called upon God for help.
We have compiled a list of mental health-related Bible verses to encourage you when life’s difficult times overwhelm you.
Mental health and the Bible
When I think about mental health in the Bible, immediately three characters come to mind from the Old Testament: Saul, David and Elijah.
Saul
Saul was the first king of Israel. He started as a humble and even shy young man, and when the people asked God for a king just like the surrounding nations had, even though it was earlier than God wanted for them, God gave them their desire. Saul did not volunteer – God appointed him for the role. However, when Saul seriously disobeyed God, God anointed David as Saul’s successor. In his jealousy, anger and bitterness, Saul began plotting how he could harm David, despite God protecting him.
As they danced, they sang: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.” Saul was very angry; this refrain displeased him greatly. “They have credited David with tens of thousands,” he thought, “but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?” And from that time on Saul kept a close eye on David.
1 Samuel 18:7–9
King David
King David had a call on his life to be the second king of Israel. He loved the Lord but was not perfect himself. Issues with his children meant that he was on the run from his own son. Whilst in hiding, he would call out to God, overwhelmed by the amount of enemies he had made over the years.
But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.
Psalm 3:3
Elijah
Elijah was a prophet, and in 1 Kings 18:16–39 on Mount Carmel, God showed himself by sending down fire from heaven in a showdown between Elijah (God’s prophet) and the prophets of the Baal. In the next chapter, Queen Jezebel sends a message to Elijah threatening to kill him. Elijah was stuck with fear and hopelessness, and asked God to take his life.
Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.”
1 Kings 19:3–5
Further reading
Why not consider looking at the lives of Job and Paul, who both also went through serious tests and trials, but always stood firm in hope that God would help them through it all?
Bible verses for mental health
When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
Psalm 56:3
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Matthew 11:29,30
Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 9:10
We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
1 Corinthians 4:8,9
You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety.
Job 11:18
The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Deuteronomy 31:8
Prayers for mental health
Father, in these current times, many who love and call upon you are struggling. They are looking to you for peace and comfort during turbulent times. Family issues, money worries and health concerns threaten to overwhelm their mental capacity. But you, Lord, are a shield against the wicked one and a system that is imperfect. Lord God, I lift up those who are looking for answers and a way out — may they keep their mind on you, as they battle the world and inner thoughts. Let your peace reign in them. Help them hold on to your words, for you promised to never leave nor forsake us. Thank you for being faithful and a good God. Amen.
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.
Psalm 4:8
Lord God, I lift up my dear brothers and sisters who are asking you to help them with the mental load they are carrying today. Lord may the weight they are feeling be lifted in Jesus’ name. Give them the courage to call upon you and trusted people around them, help them not be isolated and in pain. Lead them gracious Father to a community who will share in their burdens and comfort them. Lord, strengthen them day by day. Help them to renew their mind and not lose hope in you. Amen.
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