By MARY KAYE FALCONY
A PLACE FOR ALL
Prayer for Mental Health Awareness
Creator God,
You made all things and created humanity in Your own image.
Help us to always be mindful of this dignity in ourselves and others.
May we not despair when faced with struggles of mental health, but instead find hope in you, knowing you have a greater plan for us. Guide us to be advocates in our families, parishes, schools and communities that embraces and values all people. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus our savior and Shepherd of Peace. Amen.
“Come to me, all of you who are weary and find life burdensome, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Jesus, in this scripture, extends an invitation to all of us in all circumstances and situations of our life. He knows that in our humanity we will experience things that will overwhelm us. For some, it may present itself in the form of physical distress; and for others, it may be mental. No matter the form, he assures us of his abiding presence and unwavering love, and his arms as a refuge.
For many who find themselves struggling with mental-health issues, seeking the Lord and help from their faith communities is a very natural response. They have found acceptance, care, compassion and resources here before. As the body of Christ, we must, as a community, be those arms, that presence and that refuge; and extend that love.
Mental illness effects nearly one in five adults in the United States, and one in four families will at some time have to cope with mental illness and its effects on a loved one and family unit. Even though this is a reality within our society, we still tend not to talk much about it. Unfortunately, there is a stigma attached to mental illness. This stigma prompts many to hide their symptoms, which, in turn, prevents them from seeking needed treatment. We all must do what we can so this is no longer the case. What can change this? Education. Education would lead to an awareness and a deeper understanding of mental illness.
When I first took my position here at the diocese I was invited to be trained as a Youth Mental Health First Aid instructor. For the next three years, I was involved in educating adults who are an integral part of a youth’s daily life such as a teacher, coach, scout leader or youth minister. This training helped these individuals recognize a youth who may be experiencing a mental-health crisis or the signs that indicate a youth was beginning to have some mental-health challenges. Just as with medical first aid, this equipped individuals with the knowledge needed to be able to provide aid and guidance toward needed help. There is also training in Mental Health First Aid for Adults as well.
The training mentioned above is just one example of how individuals may become more aware about mental-health issues and ways one can be a supportive presence within their communities.
If you would like further information https://ncpd.org/disability-ministry/mental-illness is a good resource touching on a variety of topics related to mental health including guidance for parishes.