Elena Zuniga didn’t go searching for the patron saint of anxiety, depression and mental illness, but St. Dymphna found her anyway. First, a small St. Dymphna charm showed up in her jewelry box without explanation. Then a St. Dymphna prayer card fell out of a book she happened to pick up. And after showing up one morning in 2019 for a meeting about a new mental health ministry at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Yorba Linda, Zuniga soon found herself serving as one of two co-leaders of St. Dymphna’s Disciples — a group that works to reduce stigma around mental illness in the church and supports those in mental distress.
Host Rick Howick interviews guests on a variety of topics. Our guest today is someone who has been on the frontlines in helping people during these times of the coronavirus pandemic.
Between a deadly pandemic, economic uncertainty and civil unrest, many parishioners find themselves stressed and stretched, turning to their faith for guidance amid an uncertain future. Fortunately, the Diocese of Orange and its parishes are here to help.
If you fell off a ladder and broke your arm, you’d seek immediate medical assistance. Suppose, however, that your mind was broken. Would you ask for help? Given the social stigma that views mental illness as some sort of personal weakness, you might be reluctant to reach out – even if your life depended on it. Sadly, mental illness continues to remain largely hidden from our collective awareness. The result: thousands of people here in Orange County – those struggling with mental disorders and their loved ones – are suffering because of it.
Our regular “Resources for Mental Health” guide has been updated for 2020 and is now available in English. Due to the Covid-19 public health crisis, we are not hosting any in-person events at this time. We are planning to observe Mental Health Awareness month online so stay tuned for more information here.
NAMI Orange County conducts free educational programs, meetings and support groups throughout the entire county addressing every aspect of mental health.