I am in the discernment/thinking stage of planning to begin a mental illness/health ministry in my church. The main focus would be on ministering to those inside my church, versus those in prison, on the streets, etc., although I wouldn't rule out the possibility of extending the ministry to the latter persons at some time in the future.

Is anyone aware of other mental illness ministries in the Catholic churches that could help me in my discernment and strategies? I know that the Chicago diocese has a rather large one, and at some time, Portland Oregon had/has one. I don't think there are any in the city in which I live in Washington state. 

Would anyone like to share their thoughts on beginning and/or implementing something like this?

Thank you,

Jennifer

Thanks, Raken

 

I will check out Spokane and Olympia. I have been battling depression since my early teens when I used to sit in 8th grade and just cry.