I would like to take a moment to acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of the Áakʼw Ḵwáan, the original inhabitants of Lingít Aaní. We pay respect to the Áakʼw Ḵwáan elders, both past and present, an honor the spiritual wisdom they bring to our society.
In today’s world we all face pressures and stress that can affect our well-being. For some this means finding ways to maintain balance. For others it means living with genuine mental health conditions that require medical treatment and support. The Bahá’í Faith offers a balanced perspective that honors both the spiritual and medical aspects of mental health, affirming that these two approaches can work together to promote healing and resilience.
One of the Bahá’í teachings highlights that each of us possesses a noble soul and a spiritual purpose. Recognizing this purpose can give our lives meaning beyond material concerns and help us find perspective amidst life’s challenges. Daily spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation and service are encouraged in the Bahá’í Faith as ways to nurture the soul, and promote mental clarity and inner peace.
Prayer and meditation are like an oasis for the mind and soul. These practices allow individuals to pause, reflect and seek solace in a source greater than themselves. In moments of stress or anxiety, turning inward through these spiritual practices can bring a renewed sense of calm and hope, even if the outer circumstances remain unchanged.
A unique aspect of the Bahá’í Faith is the emphasis on service to humanity. Acts of service are seen not only as a way to help others, but also as a source of personal fulfillment and purpose. In times of difficulty engaging in acts of service can be a way to shift focus away from personal anxieties and instead contribute to the well-being of others. Studies have shown that those who engage in community service often experience a sense of happiness and connection, which can positively impact mental health.
While spiritual practices can offer solace and support for daily stresses, it’s essential to acknowledge that genuine mental illnesses — such as depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia — are complex conditions often rooted in neurological or biochemical factors. In the Bahá’í Faith, there is a strong appreciation for the value of science, including the understanding and treatment of mental health conditions. Just as we seek medical treatment for physical ailments, mental health issues also warrant professional care.
Shoghi Effendi (Guardian of the Bahai Faith) wrote, “This however does not mean that we should ignore medical opinion and treatment. On the contrary, we should do our best to procure the opinion of specialists and competent doctors.”
Having a supportive network of friends and family who understand the importance of both medical and spiritual approaches to mental health can be a lifeline for those struggling. This support system can remind individuals that they are not alone in their journey and that their struggles are met with empathy, understanding, and respect.
Ultimately, the Bahá’í Faith emphasizes the unity of spiritual and physical realities. Spiritual practices like prayer and service can foster resilience and emotional well-being, while medical treatments can address the physical aspects of mental illness. This integration acknowledges that both dimensions — spiritual and physical — are essential to holistic mental health. In our community we can take comfort with the idea that tribal values contain these same principles.
As we continue to navigate the challenges of modern life, fostering mental well-being is a journey that can benefit from both spiritual and medical support. By honoring both perspectives, we can create a more compassionate and balanced approach to mental health — one that values both the soul and the science behind caring for the mind.
• Adam Bauer is the secretary for the Juneau Bahá’í Assembly. “Living and Growing” is a weekly column written by different authors and submitted by local clergy and spiritual leaders. It appears every Saturday on the Juneau Empire’s Faith page.
