Catholic Mental Health Resources for Hope and Healing
Mental health is an important part of our overall well-being. When life becomes difficult, finding the right mental health resources can provide hope, healing and a path forward.
For people of faith, mental health care can include prayer, spiritual support, community and professional counseling. The Catholic Church encourages us to accompany people experiencing mental health challenges with compassion, understanding and without judgment.
Catholic Charities is committed to helping individuals and families find the support they need. Along with professional mental health services, there are several Catholic resources available to help individuals, families and parishes learn more about mental health and how faith can be part of the journey.
Mental Health Novena
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops offers a Novena for Mental Health, inviting Catholics across the country to pray for people experiencing or impacted by mental health challenges, as well as the family members, friends and health care professionals who accompany them.
The Novena follows a Pray, Learn, Act format, providing opportunities to pray for those affected by mental health challenges, learn more about mental health and consider how we can respond. The Novena can be prayed at any time of year, with the Catholic Church in the United States especially encouraged to pray together from October 10 through October 18.
Whole Hearted: Faith and Mental Health
Whole Hearted, a resource from Catholic Charities USA, helps parishes and individuals explore the connection between painful life experiences, mental health and faith.
The parish-based resource integrates spirituality and religious practices with behavioral health. The Participant Journal includes reflection and discussion questions, personal exercises, guided imagery, prayer exercises and spiritual practices. The four sessions focus on recognition, renewal and restoration.
Whole Hearted is designed to provide basic mental health awareness and spiritual support. It is not a substitute for professional therapy or clinical treatment.
You Don't Have to Walk This Journey Alone
Prayer and spiritual support can be an important part of mental health, but professional care can be, too. Catholic Charities offers compassionate, confidential mental health services for children, adults and families throughout Northwest Iowa, with in-person and telehealth options and a sliding-fee scale.
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not a lack of faith. If you or someone you love could benefit from support, Catholic Charities is here to walk alongside you with hope, healing and understanding.
Comments