One-third of non-Christian adults in the U.S. (33 percent) have sought counseling for mental illness, more than twice the percentage of practicing Christians (15 percent), according to a recent Barna report.

Though increased wellbeing among churchgoers likely contributes to this, Barna suggests other factors may also be at work.

“While there’s a chance some of the faithful are simply confident in their mental health — after all, science confirms that religious belief and a loving, stable community can be healing and have psychological benefits — this may also reflect the strength of stigma within Christian circles, as many churches have been slower to accept mental illness as a legitimate struggle requiring professional help,” the report says.

Today’s young adults are seeking affordable counseling, which may represent a significant ministry opportunity for Christian organizations.

Among all Americans, about 4 in 10 (42 percent) have seen a counselor at some point — whether for a mental illness or for other reasons, such as marriage counseling — and 13 percent are currently in counseling. Another third (36 percent) say they are open to counseling if the need arises, while nearly a quarter (23 percent) insist they would never seek counseling.

Younger Americans are the most open to seeking counseling: 21 percent of millennials and 16 percent of Gen X are currently seeing counselors, compared to 8 percent of baby boomers and 1 percent of elders (those born before 1946).

Just 15 percent of millennials and 18 percent of Gen X say they would never consider counseling, while 30 percent of boomers and 34 percent of elders feel this way.

When seeking a counselor, 46 percent of Americans cite affordability as their top consideration.

Among evangelicals, 47 percent say finding a counselor with a similar religious background is important. However, just 1 percent of those with no religious affiliation (religious “nones”) say it’s important for their counselor to share their views regarding faith.

These findings have implications for the Church. First, it’s important for faith communities to end the stigma surrounding mental illness, encouraging congregants to seek help when they need it.

Second, today’s young adults are seeking affordable counseling, which may represent a significant ministry opportunity for Christian organizations. And with nearly all “nones” open to hearing from counselors who don’t share their worldview, Christian counseling may be one avenue for reaching this growing demographic with the good news of a Savior who offers hope and healing.