U.S. bishops call Catholics to prayer and action ahead of Mental Health Sunday

The United States Catholic Conference of Bishops is inviting Catholics to observe Mental Health Sunday on Oct. 11 through the National Catholic Mental Health Campaign. This year's observance is part of a week of special emphasis running from Oct. 10 to Oct. 18.

During this period, the faithful can pray the Novena for Mental Health, which begins on World Mental Health Day and concludes on the feast of St. Luke, the patron saint of healthcare. The novena follows a structure of prayer, learning, and action to help participants understand mental health issues and respond to the crisis in the country.

Specific prayer petitions in the novena include requests for the removal of stigma, support for mental health ministry, and help for families, youth, and young adults. The prayers also address the effects of poverty, racial discrimination, grief, and suicide awareness.