Clergy suffers obesity, hypertension, depression at higher rates

According to a recent study, members of the clergy suffer from higher levels of obesity, hypertension and depression than most Americans. In addition, during the last 10 years, the use of antidepressants by clergy has increased as clergy members' life-expectancy has fallen.

And, one study has concluded, if many felt they could change their jobs then they would. Public health experts do not have any easy explanations about why clergy members are experience dramatically decreased quality of life. Duke University's Assistant Professor Rae Jean Proeschold-Bell said many members of the clergy feel compelled to assist people in need and sometimes find themselves called upon around-the-clock. One pastor in a study group hadn't had a vacation in nearly two decades.

New York Theological Seminary is an institution dedicated to preparing men and women, from a wide variety of backgrounds, for ministry. With a focus upon serving in urban settings, NYTS seeks to prepare ministers for service in a global, diverse and multi-faceted world of faith.