In today's world, mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and emotional turmoil affect millions of people, particularly young adults and teens. The widespread nature of these struggles is undeniable, and they carry with them feelings of isolation, uncertainty, and even despair. However, there is hope—a hope that can be found in the unique and holistic approach of Catholic counseling, which addresses not only the mind and emotions but also the soul. Rooted in the wisdom of the Church and enriched by modern psychological science, Catholic counseling offers a path to true healing and wholeness that touches every aspect of a person’s life.

Bishop James Conley’s powerful pastoral letter, A Future with Hope, is a shining example of how the Church can guide individuals toward mental health and spiritual well-being. In this deeply personal letter, Bishop Conley shares his own struggles with anxiety, depression, and burnout, reminding us that mental health challenges can affect anyone—even those in positions of leadership. His willingness to openly discuss his journey provides a profound message: seeking help for mental health is not a sign of weakness but a step toward healing. His story underscores the importance of Catholic counseling as a resource for those seeking not only emotional relief but also spiritual growth and renewal.
The Intersection of Faith and Mental Health: Trusting in God and Seeking Professional HelpOne of the most significant themes in Bishop Conley’s story is the delicate balance between trusting in God’s providence and seeking professional help. Like many people, Bishop Conley initially struggled with the idea of self-reliance, feeling as though he had to handle the pressures and responsibilities of his life on his own. He reflects on how the American cultural ideal of the “self-made man” influenced his thinking, leading him to believe that with enough hard work and determination, he could overcome any problem. While his faith was strong, his mindset led him to believe that he had to bear the weight of his struggles alone.

This mindset is common among many Catholics who believe in the power of prayer and divine grace but may feel hesitant to seek help from others, especially when it comes to mental health. Bishop Conley’s journey illustrates the danger of this belief—while God’s grace is always at work in our lives, we are also called to take care of the bodies and minds He has given us. Catholic counseling bridges this gap, offering a path to healing that integrates professional psychological support with a deep reliance on God’s grace.

Catholic counselors understand that healing is not simply about managing symptoms but about helping individuals embrace their total dependence on God while also utilizing the tools He has provided through modern psychological insights. This balanced approach acknowledges the power of prayer, the sacraments, and spiritual practices while also encouraging individuals to seek out counseling and other professional resources. It’s not about choosing between faith and therapy—it’s about integrating the two for the most comprehensive healing possible.

Holistic Healing: Addressing the Whole Person—Body, Mind, and SpiritWhat makes Catholic counseling distinct is its holistic approach to healing. In Catholic understanding, the human person is a unity of body, mind, and soul. These aspects of our being are intimately connected, and neglecting one can have a detrimental effect on the others. Catholic counseling, therefore, addresses the whole person, recognizing that mental health is not just about alleviating emotional or psychological distress but about fostering spiritual growth and deepening one’s relationship with God.

Bishop Conley’s story provides a powerful example of how this holistic approach works in practice. As he recounts his own journey through mental health struggles, he highlights the importance of caring for his spiritual life, even when it felt difficult. At his lowest points, Bishop Conley clung to the sacraments—the Eucharist, Confession, and the Liturgy of the Hours—as anchors for his soul. Though the sacraments did not immediately bring him relief from his emotional pain, they provided a source of grace and strength that helped him persevere through his darkest moments.

Catholic counseling encourages individuals to draw on the Church’s rich spiritual resources as part of their healing journey. The sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and Confession, are not just rituals but encounters with Christ that offer divine grace and healing. By receiving these sacraments with an open heart, individuals can experience the transformative power of God’s love, which can bring peace and healing even in the midst of suffering.

This spiritual dimension of healing is what sets Catholic counseling apart from secular approaches. While secular counseling often focuses solely on the psychological aspects of mental health, Catholic counseling recognizes that emotional well-being is deeply tied to spiritual health. By addressing both, Catholic counseling offers a more comprehensive path to healing that leads not only to emotional relief but also to a deeper sense of purpose and peace in one’s relationship with God.

The Role of Community and Support: Healing TogetherAnother crucial aspect of Bishop Conley’s story is the role that community played in his healing process. He speaks about how his recovery was made possible through the love and support of his family, friends, and medical professionals. This highlights an essential truth: we are not meant to walk the path of healing alone. Catholic counseling recognizes the importance of community in mental health, encouraging individuals to seek support from trusted friends, family members, and professionals who can walk with them on their journey.

Mental health struggles can often lead to feelings of isolation, and the stigma surrounding mental illness can make it difficult for individuals to reach out for help. However, Bishop Conley’s openness about his struggles is a powerful example of how vulnerability can lead to healing. By sharing his story, he not only received the support he needed but also broke down the barriers of shame and stigma that so often accompany mental health issues.

Catholic counseling fosters this same sense of community by creating a safe and compassionate environment where individuals can open up about their struggles without fear of judgment. In this supportive space, individuals can receive the guidance and encouragement they need to navigate their challenges and find healing. Moreover, Catholic counselors are trained to offer professional support that is deeply rooted in the faith, providing a unique combination of psychological expertise and spiritual wisdom.

Integrating Faith with Modern Psychological Practices: A Balanced ApproachWhat makes Catholic counseling truly unique is its integration of faith with modern psychological practices. Secular approaches to mental health often focus solely on the mind, using therapeutic techniques to address emotional and behavioral issues. While these methods can be helpful, they often miss the deeper spiritual dimension of healing that is essential to true wholeness.

Catholic counseling, on the other hand, views the human person through the lens of both faith and science. It acknowledges the wisdom of the Church’s teachings on human dignity, purpose, and healing, while also incorporating the latest psychological insights and therapeutic techniques. This balanced approach allows individuals to not only find relief from their emotional struggles but also to grow in their spiritual lives.

For example, Catholic counselors often encourage clients to practice mindfulness, gratitude, and cognitive-behavioral techniques, while also incorporating prayer, Scripture, and the sacraments into their healing journey. By combining these elements, Catholic counseling helps individuals to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationship with God, leading to lasting transformation.
Conclusion: A Path to Wholeness and HolinessCatholic counseling offers a profound and holistic approach to mental health that honors the whole person—body, mind, and soul. As Bishop Conley’s story demonstrates, healing is a journey that requires both divine grace and human cooperation. Catholic counseling provides the framework for this journey by integrating the wisdom of the Church with the tools of modern psychology, allowing individuals to experience true healing that encompasses every aspect of their being.
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If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health challenges, know that you are not alone. Catholic counseling offers a path forward that is rooted in hope, healing, and the grace of God. By seeking professional support and leaning on the spiritual resources of the Church, you can find peace, healing, and a deeper relationship with Christ. Remember that healing is possible, and with God’s grace, you can experience the fullness of life that He desires for you.

Find Bishop Conley's Full Statement here: ​https://www.lincolndiocese.org/afuturewithhope

Parenting a child with ADHD presents unique challenges, but with those challenges come opportunities to cultivate patience, wisdom, and resilience. Each day as a parent requires wearing multiple hats—roles that go far beyond the traditional understanding of parenting. Dr. Russell Barkley, a prominent ADHD expert, has long emphasized the distinct nature of parenting children with ADHD. Here are eight key roles parents can embody to support their child’s growth while maintaining their own emotional and spiritual health.

Shepherd: Guiding with GraceParenting a child with ADHD often requires a shift in mindset. Rather than trying to control every step, we are called to shepherd our children, acknowledging the traits and challenges they have been given. Shepherding means guiding and walking alongside our children, rather than micromanaging or fixing everything. The aim is to support them as they navigate life with their unique abilities and challenges.

Scholar & Scientist: Becoming an Expert in ADHDParents of children with ADHD often find themselves on a journey of learning, becoming scholars and scientists in their own homes. It is essential to seek out reputable, science-backed resources and to learn as much as possible about ADHD from trusted sources. Be discerning in who you seek advice from—choose experts who base their insights on scientific evidence, not just personal experience or ideology. At home, you are also a scientist, experimenting with different strategies to find what works for your family, learning from both success and failure with creativity and curiosity.

Teacher: Educating the World About ADHDIn your journey, you will likely find yourself in the role of educator. Many teachers and professionals, though well-meaning, may not fully understand ADHD. You will need to advocate and educate not only your child but also those who interact with them—helping them to grasp the complexity of ADHD and how to best support your child’s learning and development.
Defender of Marriage: Protecting Your RelationshipParenting, particularly in the context of ADHD, can put immense pressure on marriages. As a parent, one of your essential roles is to defend your marriage fiercely. Don’t let the daily struggles of parenting a child with ADHD come between you and your spouse. Prioritize your relationship and ensure that both partners are a united front in supporting your child while nurturing your own bond.

Learning & Language Coach: Fostering Growth Through CommunicationYour child’s ability to develop executive function will be a journey, and as their parent, you will become their coach in this area. The language you use with your child is critical. By choosing words carefully, you can foster their growth and help them develop crucial life skills. Coaching them through challenges with patience, empathy, and clear communication will strengthen their capacity to manage ADHD.
Master Forgiver: Extending Grace in All DirectionsMistakes are inevitable, both for you as a parent and for your child. Following Dr. Barkley’s work, forgiveness becomes a cornerstone of this journey—self-forgiveness, forgiveness for your child, and for others who may not fully understand your situation. No parent, even the experts, navigates ADHD perfectly. Learn to offer grace not only to yourself but also to those around you.

Emotional Ninja: Mastering Your Own EmotionsParenting a child with ADHD often involves navigating intense emotions—both your own and your child’s. Your child may experience and express their feelings in unpredictable, seemingly illogical ways. To be an effective parent, it’s essential to become an emotional ninja, mastering your own reactions and remaining proactive rather than reactive. This is not just about parenting skills—it’s about mental and emotional self-care. By learning to manage your own thoughts and emotions, you become a better guide for your child.
Advocate: Standing Firm for Your ChildFinally, one of the most important roles you will play is that of an advocate. You will stand up for your child, ensuring they have access to the right resources and support, while keeping your relationship with them at the center of everything you do. For those with faith, spiritual advocacy is also crucial—praying for your child daily, trusting in God’s guidance as you walk this journey together.

As a parent of a child with ADHD, you are called to wear many hats. Each role requires a unique set of skills and an ongoing commitment to learning and growth. By embracing these roles—shepherd, scholar, scientist, teacher, defender, coach, forgiver, emotional ninja, and advocate—you can guide your child through the complexities of ADHD with grace, faith, and love.

Pax et Bene,
​Amber