Go Softly: How the Model Impacts Mental Health & Wellbeing

Go Softly: How the Model Impacts Mental Health & Wellbeing 

The Go Softly model offers a compassionate and relational Christian framework that can significantly support good mental health and wellbeing, particularly in the face of crises. 

Here’s a reflection on how this model aligns with good mental health care:

1. Being With: The Power of Presence

At the heart of mental health struggles is often a profound sense of isolation. People facing anxiety, depression, or crisis may feel unseen or misunderstood. The Go Softly model’s first step, being with, emphasises God’s healing power of presence. To be with someone is to communicate that they are not alone in their struggle, that they matter, and that their pain is valid. This isn’t about offering solutions right away or trying to fix things; it’s about walking alongside someone, offering companionship & solidarity, and prayerful holding them before God. 

Being present with someone in their mental health journey mirrors the example of Jesus, who met people in their pain, listened to their stories, and stayed with them. His approach was never rushed or dismissive. Being with people in this way can create a space of safety where individuals feel free to open up and begin to heal.

2. Building Relationship: Creating Trust and Connection

Mental health and wellbeing are deeply tied to the quality of our relationships. Building relationships as part of the Go Softly model means taking time to understand people’s stories, to learn what they are going through, and to offer consistent, reliable support and pastoral care. This is particularly important in the context of mental health, where trust is essential.

Deep, authentic relationships with God and each other provide a foundation for vulnerability and healing. Often, people experiencing poor mental health may withdraw or find it difficult to communicate. By slowly building trust and connection, we can create an environment where individuals feel safe enough to express their needs, fears, and struggles. It’s about being present for the long haul, not just during a crisis, which helps alleviate feelings of abandonment or neglect that can often accompany mental health struggles.

3. Living Life Together: Building a Supportive Community

Living life together, as the model suggests, brings a sense of shared responsibility and mutual care. A supportive community where people know one another and share everyday experiences can be a powerful source of mental health support. When we live life together, we notice when someone is struggling, and we’re more likely to offer help, even in small, seemingly insignificant ways—whether it’s checking in, sharing a meal, or simply sitting in silence with someone.

Mental health and wellbeing flourish when individuals feel like they belong to a community that loves them unconditionally, reinforced by the love of God that is available for us all. This communal aspect helps break down stigma, as people see that struggles with mental health are a shared human experience, not something to hide or be ashamed of. The Bible calls us to "bear one another’s burdens" (Galatians 6:2), and living life together provides the structure for this kind of care to happen naturally.

4. The Slow Work of Healing

Healing from mental health crises is rarely quick or linear. The Go Softly model’s emphasis on patience and gentleness resonates deeply with the nature of recovery. Often, well-meaning individuals may push for quick solutions or expect rapid improvements, but true healing takes time, and the process can involve setbacks.  

By embracing the slow, steady approach of the Go Softly model, we acknowledge that mental health journeys require time and grace. The Kingdom of God grows like a mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32), and similarly, the work of mental healing often starts small, with tiny acts of care, compassion, and presence that slowly add up to profound change. This patience creates space for individuals to heal at their own pace, free from pressure or unrealistic expectations.

5. Holistic Wellbeing: Mind, Body, and Soul

The Go Softly model also reflects a holistic approach to wellbeing—acknowledging that mental health is not just about the mind, but involves the whole person: body, mind, and soul. Living life together as church means creating environments where all aspects of wellbeing are cared for. This includes fostering spiritual practices like prayer, reflection, and worship, which can be deeply supportive of positive mental health. It also involves encouraging healthy rhythms of rest, connection with nature, and physical activity, all of which are vital for sustaining mental health.

Conclusion

The Go Softly model provides a compassionate and relational approach that directly supports good mental health and wellbeing. By focusing on presence, deep relationships, community, and patience, it mirrors the slow, healing work of God’s love. Mental health crises can feel overwhelming, but through going softly, we create a space where healing, support, and wholeness can slowly take root. This approach honours the dignity and humanity of every individual, reminding us that in the Kingdom of God, we are never alone in our struggles.