The mission of the SS. Isidore and Maria Parish Mental Health Ministry is to provide an environment where people living with mental illness can meet, share their experiences and their Catholic faith with others, and grow spiritually closer in their relationship with God. 

It also supports the parents, family members, and friends of those who are supporting a loved one who is experiencing mental illness by providing assistance in finding educational and other support services to aid in their understanding of mental illness.

Our goal is to provide a place to speak out and be heard in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment, where isolation and stigma dissipate as this supportive community is created.

What is Mental Health? Mental health is a key component of wellness. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It helps us to determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Yet mental health issues are common in our community: about 1 in 4 adults is will be diagnosed with mental health issues in any given year. People with mental health problems can get better and many recover completely.

As a faith community, we can make a difference in people’s lives by educating ourselves on the facts about mental health, being accepting of a person’s mental health issues, comforting them in times of crisis, supporting them with prayerful presence, and assisting them in their search for mental health services.

The Parish Mental Health Ministry does not take on the roles of psychologists, psychiatrists, or therapists. Instead, the volunteers in this ministry supply Christian love, prayer, and human connections.

We are seeking parishioners who would feel called to serve in this new ministry. Whether you or someone you love has experienced mental health issues, or if you work in the field of behavioral health, your insight and experiences could help others.

For more information and/or to express interest or insights please contact us:  contact@isidoreandmaria.org or 860-633-9419.

This program does not offer, nor does it constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice or treatment of a qualified provider with concerns regarding mental health. 

Looking for resources? The Connecticut Chapter for the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) can help. It’s available 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., each weekday:  860.882.0236.

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