Pope Leo XIV Dedicates October Prayer to Mental Health Ministry

Pope Leo XIV designated his October prayer intention for mental health ministry, calling on the faithful and people of good will to pray for the Church to become an open space for those experiencing mental health challenges. This global initiative, part of the Pope's Worldwide Prayer Network's "Pray with the Pope" campaign, highlights the widespread impact of mental health disorders and the need for compassionate support.

The Pope's call responds to a significant global reality: more than a billion people live with a mental disorder, according to the World Health Organization's (WHO) Mental Health Atlas 2024, presented in September 2025. Global public spending on mental health remains low, at barely 2% of health budgets, a figure unchanged since 2017.

Holding a holy card of Saint Dymphna, the patroness of those suffering from mental disorders, anxiety, and depression, Pope Leo XIV began his prayer in the Pope Video for this month. He asked forgiveness for times when the community has "looked the other way," contributing to stigma and discrimination. He prayed for the Church to be a safe space that listens without judgment and offers support without fear.

Father Cristóbal Fones, SJ, international director of the Pope's Worldwide Prayer Network, emphasized the importance of this intention, noting that many people suffer from mental illness and feel judged, misunderstood, and hopeless. "As a Church, we come together to open our hearts to this reality and to pray together, throughout this entire month, for all of them and also for those who accompany them," Father Fones stated.

The prayer also extends to caregivers, including professionals, family members, and volunteers, asking for their strength and compassion. It invokes the Holy Spirit so the Christian community may integrate mental health care into the Church's life and mission, becoming a "living sign" of God's mercy. This initiative addresses mental health challenges and aims to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment.