Project Catholic Mental Health Ministry Moldova - Catholic Service for Mental Health

1. The purpose of the ministry

The purpose of the Catholic Mental Health Service is to support people with mental health problems in the community and to help parishioners and clergy create an atmosphere of acceptance and mutual assistance in the Church.

Following the example of the Good Samaritan, we are called to be with those whose suffering is subtle, but no less painful.

2. Who is this ministry for?

To all. No one is immune to the risk of developing a mental disorder. Awareness, knowledge of resources for protection and how to maintain mental health is an essential first aid kit when someone is experiencing difficulties.

3. Can I receive psychological help in the ministry?

Not. Mental Health Service does not involve the provision of psychological / psychotherapeutic / psychiatric care. However, you can get complete information on where to call for help.

4. What activities will take place during the ministry?

The events will focus on information and spiritual support.

We will organize a special weekly course to inform parishioners about the problems of people with mental disorders, about the possibilities to support them and their families, about ways to take care of their personal and loved ones' mental health. We will publish useful articles on the site - caritas.md and catolicmold.md ... We will indicate links to informational materials on the pages of social networks.

We encourage you to take an active part in spiritual activities with a view to providing spiritual support to people with mental illness and their families. Please pray for people with mental health and psychological problems, their families, and mental health professionals. Do not forget our service in your prayer!

5. Why is mental health awareness important?

According to the WHO, after cardiovascular and oncological diseases, mental disorders are one of the most important public health problems in the WHO European Region.

Every person in life faces mental and psychological problems of varying levels of complexity - it can be stress and exhaustion at work, social anxiety, sleep problems, eating disorders, the consequences of psychological trauma. Our family members may suffer from mental disorders - dementia, epilepsy, depression. There is also no guarantee of mental disorders for children. Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Childhood Aggression, and Mutism - Many of these problems are known directly to parents.

The most vulnerable - the elderly, children and adolescents, pregnant women and young mothers, veterans and people on low incomes - are especially at risk of developing a mental disorder.

Knowledge of mental hygiene and the basics of psychopathology is a must to live our lives in a happier community, to serve our families, to be open to new parishioners, and to be able to lend a helping hand.

6. How can I help with the ministry?

• Participate actively in events - courses, conferences, meetings.

• Participate in liturgical events organized by the service (Rosaries, Way of the Cross, Liturgies, etc.).

• Pray for people with mental health problems and their caregivers (family, friends, doctors).

• Pray for the development of this ministry.

• Share articles, informational materials with family and friends - on social media. and meetings.

• Invite your friends to participate in spiritual and informational activities organized by the ministry.

• Join project volunteers.