Sermon Illustrations
Shining Light on New Disorders
The new fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) has been released. This has been dubbed, "the bible of psychiatry." But it is being received with an overwhelming negative response. The reason? According to the Everyday Bioethics website, "DSM-5 added ten new mental illness diagnoses and loosened the criteria for many others." The article goes on to say, "Current odds are that, based on the DSM-5, half the population will have a diagnosable disorder in their lifetime."
Some examples: recurring overindulgence is now Binge Eating Disorder, children with temper tantrums suffer from Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, there is now a Hoarding Disorder, and finally Caffeine Withdrawal.
Possible Preaching Angle:
It seems like everything is being labeled a disorder! We in no way make light of mental health issues, and crave the day when our every disorder will be redeemed. But in recognizing how many problems in our lives are outside our control, we also need to recognize that some of our "disorders" are the result of sin, demanding the Cure of Souls.