Christian Ethical Approach to Emotional Health Challenges in Nigeria

Abstract

Emotional health is a vital aspect of holistic well-being, but little attention is given within Nigeria's socio-religious context. Among the causes of emotional health in the country are unabated insecurity, poverty, and unemployment, which have exacerbated the situation.1 Despite the country's population of over 240 million, only a few psychiatrists are available. Consequently, many Nigerians seek mental health support within religious communities. This paper argues that a Christian ethical ideology is a crucial means of addressing emotional suffering. The study adapts Charles Gerkin's Narrative Pastoral Care Theory and Emmanuel Lartey's African contextual pastoral theology as an essential approach to healing through compassionate storytelling and supportive community engagement. Using qualitative analysis and theological inquiry, it examines how Christian virtues and communal care can nurture emotional resilience and recovery. The study argues that churches can become "healing communities" that offer a safe space for restoration and advocate collaborative care when guided by ethics.

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