Roseline Mutare
A pioneering collaboration between theological principles and psychological science has emerged in an initiative aimed at enhancing mental health and wellness.
Happynest Counselling Chambers, in conjunction with the Central Zimbabwe Conference (CZC) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, has disseminated critical mental health awareness messages to a significant number of congregants across multiple camp meeting venues.
Senior Consultant Counselling Psychologist who is also the chief executive officer for Happynest Counselling Chambers, Innocent Mataruse articulated the initiative’s goals in a statement to The Midweek Watch.
“By integrating psychological frameworks with spiritual practices, we empower communities to engage in a holistic healing process. The validity of mental wellness is not only backed by psychological research but also aligns profoundly with spiritual tenets,” said Mataruse.
He elaborated that this initiative seeks to bridge the traditionally perceived divide between psychology and faith, offering a theologically sound and psychologically informed structure for congregants to better comprehend mental health challenges.
“Grounding our outreach in universal principles of compassion, service, and holistic well-being has enabled individuals to reconcile emotional difficulties with their spiritual identity,” Mataruse added.
Through this campaign, there has been a concerted effort to dismantle the pervasive stigma associated with mental health disorders, fostering validation and reducing the shame often linked with such issues. By normalizing experiences of anxiety, grief, and depression as common human conditions, the initiative encourages individuals to pursue assistance without the fear of social repercussions.
The collaboration between Happynest Counselling Chambers and the CZC has redefined the trajectory of mental wellness as an integral aspect of spiritual life.
“When faith and psychological science converge, they unveil potent, divinely intertwined pathways to hope, healing, and emotional integrity,” Mataruse emphasized.
This progressive approach not only aims to cultivate healthier individuals but also aspires to build more compassionate and supportive faith communities. The initiative stands as a potential national model, exemplifying the efficacy of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing mental health and holistic recovery.
