We are about to begin the month of May, a good month to reflect on mental health and our faith. May is mental health awareness month in the United States. The first week of May is mental health week in Canada. And May 15 is the feast day for Saint Dymphna, a patron for people living with mental health disorders or illnesses.
Dr. Melese said the mental health crisis has been exacerbated by the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, “especially among the poor and vulnerable in our society. Socio-economic factors also have a negative impact on mental health.”
All Saints (2nd April) and Our Lady of Mercy (26 March) Parishes held a discussion with community collaborators on the importance of mental health and working against stigma and discrimination associated to mental health illness.