What Have the past 25 Years of Member Care Research Taught Us?: An Overview of Missionary Mental Health and Member Care Services

Abstract

Mental health has long played a role in missions. For the past 25 years, research has detailed the relationship between missionaries and mental health. The research shows that missionaries undergo unique stressors that impact their spouses and families. These unique stressors increase the need for mental health services. This article explores the lessons learned through research on missionaries, the increase in the types of services provided for missionaries, and the increased need to continue to explore and provide such services. Despite the growth and development of the member care field, there continue to be gaps in the services provided to missionaries, specifically in the timely provision of necessary resources and services.