On Friday October 10 the world will be celebrating mental health. Asking one of my grade 8 class about mental health, they considered mental health awareness for mad people. Guidance Councilor to them “they want to listen to our business” one student say. “mi doh trust no body fi tell them waagwan in mi yard” another student shouted. A parishoner once told me she’ll rather keep it to her self than tell a priest or a pastor what she is going through “them chat too much” she said.

In the journey of life, it’s essential to remember that our mental well-being is just as important as our physical health. Taking the time to nurture your mind, acknowledge your feelings, and seek support when needed are acts of incredible strength, not weakness. You are not alone in your struggles, and there are countless resources and people ready to offer a helping hand. Embrace self-compassion, celebrate your progress, and never underestimate your resilience. Your well-being matters, and prioritising it is a crucial step toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

“It’s better to cry than to be angry; because anger hurnts others, while tears flow silently through the soul and cleanse the heart.” – St. John Paul II

Pope Francis has frequently spoken about the importance of mental health and offers pastoral guidance on how to approach it. He emphasizes compassion, destigmatization, and the role of faith in healing. He has said: “Mental health is a gift to be protected and cared for. It is not a luxury, but a necessity.”

He also stresses that seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that mental illness should be met with understanding and solidarity from communities, especially within the Church. He encourages a holistic approach to well-being, integrating spiritual, psychological, and physical care.Pope Francis frequently highlights the importance of mental health, offering pastoral guidance that emphasizes compassion, destigmatization, and the healing power of faith. He asserts, “Mental health is a gift to be protected and cared for. It is not a luxury, but a necessity.” He also underscores that seeking professional help signifies strength, not weakness, and calls for mental illness to be met with community understanding and solidarity, particularly within the Church. He advocates for a holistic approach to well-being, integrating spiritual, psychological, and physical care.