As we develop a greater understanding of how to meaningfully partner in our communities and support our fellow community members, the interconnectedness between different social issues becomes apparent. When we go deeper into the work addressing a specific social issue, we learn more about systemic factors and non-medical drivers of health as root causes of multiple social problems. For example, poverty is correlated with both food insecurity and mental health challenges.

Many congregations are called to address an urgent local need like food security. Recognizing connections among different types of needs and how they co-occur in the same person can multiply the benefits of that work. Let’s explore how we might simultaneously promote mental health and food security in our communities not as entirely separate elements, but as factors that exist in relationship to one another for individuals and families and more broadly in our society.

Food Security and Mental Health

There is a well-documented relationship between food insecurity and mental health challenges. In one study, food insecurity was linked to a 257% higher risk of anxiety and 253% higher risk of depression. Research by the Department of Agriculture (USDA) found that adults with a mental health disability are up to five times more likely to live in a household that is food insecure.

Among children, hunger has been linked to depression and suicidal ideation as children move into later adolescence and adulthood. It has also been linked to higher rates of a wide range of adolescent mood, behavior, and substance use disorders.

Promoting Food Security and Mental Health, Together

While communities and congregations have long been involved in offering programs that provide food to individuals and families who need it, there is stigma and shame often with typical charitable food programs. In Toxic Charity, traditional, charity-focused food pantry programs are shared as an example of an approach that fails to address the underlying cause of food insecurity, which is poverty. The book offers alternatives to traditional pantries, such as gardening programs, culinary learning, and other initiatives, that both meet the need for food and support people in building autonomy and addressing poverty.

So, how can we begin to promote both mental health and food security in our communities, together?

• When we offer food to individuals and families, we can share information about mental health services in our local areas, and vice versa.
• With charitable programs addressing both mental health and food security, having a non-stigmatizing orientation is key. Gathering community to promote stronger relationships, wellbeing, and health creates the space for people to access resources that meet their needs without sacrificing their privacy or dignity.
• We know that social connection influences mental health, and efforts to promote food justice can also bring people together. If we keep this in mind when hosting food-related activities, we can emphasize the social aspects of these kinds of efforts. For example, host regular community gardening events where the public is specifically invited to take part in tending the gardens or host community meals where social connection and relationship-building are key priorities. In these interactions, everyone can be transformed by being in relationship and community with one another.
• Food justice advocates note that approaches to food security should be culturally grounded. This cultural respect also brings mental health benefits. When you affirm people’s identities and preferences, you’re also affirming belonging, and affirming their sense of safety and trust.

These ideas are just examples, and are designed to promote mental health and wellbeing all along the full continuum of mental health. When we look at the intersection of mental health and food security in a specific community, there are likely many other ways to promote both in creative ways that are grounded in local values and culture.