The Catholic tradition affirms that the communion of saints can be a source of hope, comfort, and intercession for those experiencing mental illness. The International Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers encourages Catholics to invoke the saints as spiritual companions and advocates in prayer, especially for those facing a challenging journey with mental health issues.
Among the saints especially honored in mental health prayer is St. Dymphna, known as the patron saint of mental illness. The USCCB-endorsed Novena for Mental Health begins with her intercession, inviting the faithful to pray for healing, reduce stigma, and open hearts for accompaniment.
Another influential model is St. John of God, who himself endured mental distress and was confined in a psychiatric facility before dedicating his life to serving the ill and marginalized. His experience and recovery provide a vivid example that mental illness does not exclude someone from holiness.
The IACMHM offers intercessions and petitions for mental health to be included in the Prayers of the Faithful, emphasizing that those with mental illness are fully part of parish life and are not forgotten. While intercessory prayer and invoking saints are not substitutes for professional care, they demonstrate a deep theological belief: no condition, including mental illness, limits the reach of divine mercy or the caring presence of spiritual companions. Those who live with mental health challenges, supported by saints and the Church, remain beloved members of Christ’s body. To learn more about saints and mental health, click HERE.