Help! I've Been Diagnosed with a Mental Disorder

When I’m looking for resources in counseling and medicine, I’m always interested in the personal accounts of those who have been in the middle of a problem and found their way out. Help! I’ve Been Diagnosed with a Mental Disorder, is that kind of resource. In this useful book, Christine Chappell offers hope and help to those whose lives have received a label, but not much help from it. Christine relates how she found comfort when she changed her purpose in life from finding relief from symptoms to living to glorify God despite them. I recommend this encouraging book to those who are in the same struggle, their loved ones, and those who counsel them.

Dr. Charles Hodges

Medical Doctor; Executive Director, Vision of Hope; Author, Good Mood, Bad Mood: Help and Hope for Depression and Bipolar Disorder; Fellow, Association of Certified Biblical Counselors

It's tempting, as with all medical diagnoses, to make an idol out of getting better. In this book, Christine Chappell gives readers an alternative framework for thinking about their psychiatric label. She helps readers see that personal growth and glorifying the Lord are possible, even in the midst of a disorder diagnosis. This is an insightful and accessible resource written by a sympathetic and wise counselor. We believe that many sufferers can find hope in these pages.

David & Krista Dunham

Biblical Counselors, Cornerstone Baptist Church; Co-authors, Table for Two: Biblical Counsel for Eating Disorders

A Christian who has been diagnosed with a mental disorder may experience many emotions including confusion of what the diagnosis means, fear of having the disorder becoming their identity, and worry about what the future may hold. Christine Chappell speaks realistically from her personal experience, reminding the believer that our primary identity is in Christ and that the Bible offers practical wisdom and hope beyond that which secular psychology and psychiatry can give. Even in your affliction you can glorify God, enjoy His peace, and be fruitful.

Jim Newheiser

Director of the Christian Counseling Program, Reformed Theological Seminary Charlotte; Executive Director, Institute for Biblical Counseling & Discipleship; Fellow, Association of Certified Biblical Counselors; Author, Help! I Want to Change

The phrase ‘mental disorder’ has become common language in our culture today and Christians are greatly impacted by it. In Help! I’ve Been Diagnosed with a Mental Disorder, Christine Chappell courageously shares her own story of being diagnosed with a mental disorder and how her identity in Christ has brought her wholeness. This helpful booklet offers the reader affirming and validating truths from a biblical lens. I highly recommend it!

Shannon McCoy

(MABC), Counselor, Association of Certified Biblical Counselors; Biblical Counseling Director, Valley Center Community Church; Council Member, Biblical Counseling Coalition; Author, Help! I’m A Slave to Food

Filled with hope, dripping with wisdom, and infused with compassion, this mini-book brings clarity to one of the most confusing and frightening moments in so many lives.  Christine states clearly and simply so much of what I would hope to communicate to anyone in this difficult situation. This is now my go-to resource when someone in my church is diagnosed with a mental disorder.

Scott Mehl

Pastor, Cornerstone Church L.A.; Counselor, Association of Certified Biblical Counselors; Author, Loving Messy People: The Messy Art of Helping One Another Become More Like Jesus

A wave of emotions and uncertainty will come when being diagnosed with a mental disorder, as oftentimes we're left with more questions than answers. In this book, Christine Chappell offers a fresh perspective on understanding the struggle and how to pursue Scripture-informed care. Although we are people with limitations, this resource points us back to our limitless God. A practical, helpful, and applicable book!

Shauna Van Dyke

Executive Director, Association of Biblical Counselors; Founder, Truth Renewed Ministries.  

The normal struggles of life are hard. When diagnoses or labels are applied, confusion, fear, and heartache make things even harder. Christine knows it’s true. If you or someone you love is struggling with a concerning diagnosis, I pray this mini-book delivers the God-centered clarity, hope, and direction you need most. Christine’s insights will help you to respond well and remain focused on your ultimate hope: Jesus’ wisdom, grace, and help.

Rush Witt

D.Min., Lead Pastor, Paramount Church; Fellow, Association of Certified Biblical Counselors; Author, Diehard Sins: How to Fight Wisely Against Destructive Daily Habits  

Being diagnosed with a mental disorder can be scary and confusing. Countless questions often arise, as new explanations lead to looking at life through a new lens. In this little book, Christine Chappell serves as a a wise guide for those diagnosed and points to the hope and help all people can find in Christ Jesus.

Nate Brooks

PhD; Assistant Professor of Christian Counseling, Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte; Co-author, Help! Our Sex Life is Troubled by Past Abuse

This is a great resource for anyone who has received a diagnostic label of mental illness. Christine’s own personal testimony is warm and gracious as she walks you through what to think and how to respond without allowing this ‘label’ to now define your entire life. An excellent resource for putting hope back into a confused and fearful heart.

Brad Bigney

Lead Pastor, Grace Fellowship Church; Author, Gospel Treason: Betraying the Gospel with Hidden Idols; Counselor, Association of Certified Biblical Counselors