Mental Health Ministry

Catholic Mental Health Ministry provides spiritual accompaniment and pastoral care for people experiencing mental health challenges and mental illness, as well as those who care for them. It offers a healing presence in the lives of people with mental illness and helps overcome the stigma and discrimination that people living with a mental illness encounter in the Church and in society.

Even in the 21st century, we speak in whispers and indirect references about those who suffer from mental illness. And those who suffer remain hesitant to reveal their suffering, fearful of being labelled or outcast. Mental Health Ministry provides ways to inform our entire community to overcome the attitudes and misunderstandings about mental illness.

Catholic mental health ministry recognizes the value of professional mental health care and the importance of collaboration with healthcare organizations and professionals, religious, clergy, educational institutes, counseling centers, teachers, nurses, and other community organizations.

Mental Health Ministry does not provide diagnosis, counseling, treatment, medical assistance or behavioral health support, but instead may aid in helping people living with a mental illness find treatment and medical services in their community. Parish volunteer team members, whether they are active/retired mental health professionals or non-professionals, will not and cannot provide the sort of assistance reserved only for licensed practicing professionals.

Sharing each other’s stories can be a liberating and welcome break in the silence that often surrounds mental illness. This is the place to speak out and be heard in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment, where isolation and stigma dissipate as a supportive community is created. Spiritual Support Groups are not group therapy, but rather a ministry in which members support each other during their time of need and grow spiritually in their relationship with God. Spiritual Support Group members believe that Our Lord enters into the lives of those living with a mental illness and walks with them, accompanying them in a special way through his living body, the Church. Within the Spiritual Support Group, we strive to build a community of warmth and affection where those who are suffering will find the support they need to open themselves to recognize His presence in their struggle.

Often, those suffering with mental illness just want to tell their stories – to be heard, to know they are not alone, and to know that someone is alongside them in their struggle. The same is true for families and friends of those who suffer. Spiritual Support Groups may be organized for those experiencing mental illness, and another for parents, family members, and friends of those who do.

What do participants gain from a Spiritual Support Group?

You will find that you are not alone. Through the experience of prayer and the development of supportive relationships, you will find inner strength, learning to lean on Jesus and His Church to assist you in your walk. It can be easy to lose sight of Christ amid suffering, yet we know He is always there. Through the experience of prayer, supportive relationships, and education, the goal of this ministry is to ensure that no one feels alone in their struggle with mental illness.

How are the meetings structured?

The meetings will open with prayer, followed by individual sharing and support by group members. Group members are encouraged but not required to share their experiences. One does not need to be Catholic to participate, but Catholic prayers and devotions will be used.

Who are the facilitators?

Groups are facilitated by parish Mental Health Ministry team members. Group leaders receive training and resources from the International Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers.