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Working with People with Mental IllnessPastor's Resistance to a ReferralDifficulty in completing a referral to a mental health professional and rehabilitation and support services is particularly unfortunate because in the majority of cases people with mental disorders can be substantially helped, and in some cases cured, with the assistance of a mental health professional. Difficulty in completing a referral can be due to a number of factors. First, as mentioned above, there is reluctance on the part of the person with a mental health problem. Second, there is reluctance to make a referral. This is often related to a lack of or no training about mental disorders. Third, some clergy have a pessimistic, negative orientation toward mental health professionals. This is reinforced by people who are unreceptive to the idea of working with a mental health professional. This gives rise to the perception that anyone is likely to reject such a referral. Fourth, some mental health professionals themselves have not facilitated the referral process. Their receptiveness, feedback, and understanding of spiritual issues are often disappointing. Finally, the mental health system can be remote and difficult to access, often due to inadequate staff and resources, further hindering the referral process.
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