Saints and Mental Health

Throughout Christian history, the saints have been beacons of hope, compassion, and solidarity with those suffering in mind, body, and spirit. At Clergy Care Collective, we draw strength and inspiration from their witness, especially those connected to mental health.

St. Dymphna, the 7th-century Irish princess martyred by her father, is the patron saint of those with mental illness and of mental health professionals. Miracles of healing have surrounded her shrine in Geel, Belgium for centuries, where townspeople opened their homes to care for the mentally ill—a legacy of love that continues to this day.

We also look to saints who suffered personally with mental anguish and persevered in faith, including:

• St. John of the Cross, who endured profound depression and spiritual desolation.

• St. Benedict Joseph Labre, known as the patron of those with mental illness and homelessness.

• St. Teresa of Ávila, who struggled with severe illness and periods of doubt but offered luminous teaching on prayer and trust.

We honor these saints by praying for their intercession, seeking to emulate their compassion, and advocating for the dignity of all who carry invisible burdens. May they guide us in building a Church where no one suffers alone.