Crisis Support: If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Resources for Hope & Healing

Comprehensive support, education, and spiritual resources for mental health and suicide prevention

Crisis & Immediate Support

If you or someone you know is in crisis, these resources are available 24/7

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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Call or Text: 988

Available 24/7 for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis

Visit Website
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Crisis Text Line

Text HELLO to 741741

Free 24/7 support via text message. Connect with a trained crisis counselor who can provide support and resources.

Visit Website
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Veterans Crisis Line

Call 988 then Press 1

Text 838255

24/7 confidential support for veterans and their families, even if not enrolled in VA benefits or health care.

Visit Website
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SAMHSA National Helpline

1-800-662-4357

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration - Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service.

Visit Website

Books & Publications

Essential reading for individuals, families, and Catholic leaders

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When a Loved One Dies by Suicide

Written by Catholics who have lost a loved one to suicide, this book offers personal stories of loss, coping with crushing grief, finding comfort in faith and community, and discovering hope.

Topics include:

  • Personal narratives of loss and healing
  • Catholic perspectives on grief and hope
  • Practical guidance for surviving family members
  • Finding support in faith communities
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Responding to Suicide: A Pastoral Handbook

The first book written for Catholic leaders that takes a holistic approach to understanding suicide and ministering effectively in its aftermath.

Topics include:

  • Understanding suicide from multiple perspectives
  • Pastoral care for those affected by suicide
  • Liturgical considerations and funeral planning
  • Creating supportive parish communities

Training & Education Programs

Evidence-based programs that save lives and build compassionate communities

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QPR Training

Question. Persuade. Refer.

Learn the three simple steps anyone can take to help save a life from suicide:

  • Question: Ask directly about suicidal thoughts
  • Persuade: Encourage the person to seek help
  • Refer: Connect them with appropriate resources
Contact for Training
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Mental Health First Aid

An 8-hour training course that teaches participants how to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis.

Covers common mental health challenges, warning signs, and how to provide initial support.

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Catholic Mental Health Ministry Formation

Specialized training for those called to mental health ministry within Catholic parishes and communities.

Learn to provide spiritual accompaniment with compassion, understanding, and practical skills.

Catholic Mental Health Organizations

Partners in mental health ministry and suicide prevention

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Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers

Supporting Catholic parishes and dioceses in establishing mental health ministries. Provides resources, training, and networking opportunities for mental health ministers.

Visit Website
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USCCB Mental Health Resources

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops offers guidance, pastoral letters, and resources on mental health ministry.

Visit Website
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National Catholic Partnership on Disability

Advocates for the full inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of the Church and society, including mental health support.

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Catholic Charities USA

Many local Catholic Charities agencies offer mental health counseling, support groups, and crisis services. Contact your local agency for available programs.

Mental Health Organizations

National organizations providing advocacy, education, and support

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NAMI

National Alliance on Mental Illness

The nation's largest grassroots mental health organization. Offers support groups, education programs, and advocacy.

Visit Website
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Mental Health America

Leading nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health, preventing mental illness, and achieving victory over mental illness through advocacy, education, research, and service.

Visit Website
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AFSP

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide through research, education, advocacy, and support programs.

Visit Website
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ADAA

Anxiety and Depression Association of America

Resources, education, and support for anxiety, depression, and related disorders.

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Patron Saints for Mental Health

Holy intercessors who understand suffering and offer hope

St. Thérèse of Lisieux

St. Thérèse of Lisieux

Patron for Depression and Anxiety

Feast Day: October 1

Known for her 'Little Way' of spiritual childhood, St. Thérèse teaches us that even in our smallest struggles, God's love is present. She offers hope to those battling depression and anxiety, showing that holiness is found in trusting God through our daily challenges.

🙏 Pray for their intercession

St. Dymphna

Patron Saint of Mental Illness

Feast Day: May 15

St. Dymphna, an Irish princess who fled to Belgium to escape her father's madness, is the patron saint of those suffering from mental illness, anxiety, and nervous disorders. Many seek her intercession for healing and peace of mind.

🙏 Pray for their intercession

St. Benedict Joseph Labre

Patron for Mental Illness

Feast Day: April 16

A pilgrim and beggar who suffered from mental illness himself, St. Benedict Joseph Labre is a powerful advocate for those who struggle with mental health challenges. His life demonstrates God's love for the poorest and most vulnerable.

🙏 Pray for their intercession

Prayers for Mental Health & Healing

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What To Read In Time of Need

Find comfort and guidance in God's Word for every circumstance you face.

Discover scripture passages specifically chosen for when you're in sorrow, worried, discouraged, lonely, or facing any of life's challenges. God's Word provides light and hope in every situation.

View Scripture Guide

Prayer for Those Struggling with Mental Illness

Loving God, you are the source of all hope and healing. Be with those who struggle with mental illness. Grant them comfort in their pain, strength in their weakness, and hope in their despair. May they know that they are precious in your sight and never alone. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer for Those Who Have Lost a Loved One to Suicide

Merciful Father, we entrust to your infinite love our beloved [name], who has died by suicide. In your boundless mercy, grant them eternal rest and peace. Console all who grieve this profound loss, and help us to trust in your compassion and understanding. May we find comfort in your promise of eternal life. Amen.

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Liturgical Resources

Resources for worship, prayer services, and liturgies focused on mental health awareness and suicide prevention:

  • Mass intentions for mental health awareness
  • Prayer service outlines
  • Scripture readings on hope and healing
  • Music and hymn suggestions
  • Blessing prayers for mental health ministry

Recognizing Warning Signs

Understanding the signs can help you save a life

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Talk

If a person talks about:

  • Killing themselves
  • Feeling hopeless
  • Having no reason to live
  • Being a burden to others
  • Feeling trapped
  • Unbearable pain
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Behavior

Behaviors that may signal risk:

  • Increased use of alcohol or drugs
  • Looking for ways to end their life
  • Withdrawing from activities
  • Isolating from family and friends
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Giving away prized possessions
  • Saying goodbye to loved ones
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Mood

People who are considering suicide often display:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Loss of interest
  • Irritability
  • Humiliation
  • Agitation or rage
  • Sudden improvement after being down

What to Do

If you notice these warning signs in someone you know:

  1. Ask: "Are you thinking about suicide?" (Asking will not put the idea in their head)
  2. Listen: Without judgment, let them share what they're feeling
  3. Stay: Don't leave them alone if you believe they're in immediate danger
  4. Connect: Help them reach out to crisis support (988) or other resources
  5. Follow up: Check in, show you care, and continue to be supportive

Need More Information?

Contact us to learn more about our resources, training programs, or how to bring mental health ministry to your parish.

Contact Us
🆘 Crisis? Call 988