In order to support people with mental illness in your parish, it is helpful to be aware of statistics, treatments and supports. Browse this evidence-based resource guide about mental illness for faith and community leaders or take a Mental Health First Aid Course.
Take extra time to learn from those who experience mental illness. Check out stories from the NCPD website, or invite members of your parish to share their story. Share NCPD’s Welcome and Valued video with your parish and use the Welcome and Valued manual for guiding questions and resources. Include the perspectives of parents, siblings, spouses, children, and extended family. Their experience with mental illness is also valuable for the parish community.
In addition to raising awareness about mental llness, it is important to devote extra time to prayer during mental health commemorations. Include mental health petitions in the Prayers of the Faithful or order these free Saint Dymphna prayer cards for your parish or prayer groups. Participate in the National Weekend of Prayer for Faith, Hope and Life from September 6-8 organized by the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention.
A simple note about mental health can convey to parishioners with mental illness that they are welcome and valued. These posts can also remind the parish community of the prevalence of mental illness and urge them to address mental health concerns. Post this picture on your website or social media to share the fall mental illness awareness dates. (Remember to include an 'alt-text' or include the text of the image in the caption so that the picture is accessible.)
NCPD’s Council on Mental Illness created A Pastoral Response to Mental Illness to provide recommendations for parish leaders, as well as information about advocacy, recovery, suicide prevention, and addiction.