Protestant Study Reveals Mental Health Struggles for Majority of U.S. Pastors

Pulpit for preaching. Photo: Getty Images

JUNE 13, 2025 — More than 50% of American Protestant pastors say they are not receiving the mental health support they need, according to a new study released June 13, 2025, by the Barna Group in partnership with the Gloo platform.

The “State of the Church” report highlights widespread emotional strain and burnout among pastors, particularly in the areas of personal and family relationships. Clergy rated their interpersonal well-being at just 57 out of 100 – far below the general U.S. average of 79.

The study assessed clergy health across five areas: interpersonal relationships, spiritual life, physical health, finances, and ministry. The findings reveal that unmet psychological needs are contributing to feelings of isolation, diminished effectiveness, and long-term burnout.

Researchers are urging church communities to prioritize the mental and emotional well-being of their leaders, noting that sustained neglect could weaken ministries nationwide.

In 2021, the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops conducted a survey which garnered more than 1,600 responses and was released as a report under the title “Mental Health Needs Assessment.” The survey included both clergy and laity.

According to the report, 77% of survey participants reported personally struggling with mental health concerns, and 87% reported having a family member who has struggled with mental health concerns. An overwhelming majority also reported a willingness to utilize both clinical and pastoral support, rather than just one or the other. 

The full report from the Assembly of Bishops can be found here.

Previously, UOJ published a piece on televangelism and the decline of Christianity in America.

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