Awareness is essential in maintaining and addressing our mental health needs – at every age.
Nicole Keefer, Executive Director of VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services, along with representation from all New Jersey Catholic dioceses, recently attended a statewide Catholic Mental Health Conference hosted by the Diocese of Metuchen. Bishop John P. Dolan of the Diocese of Phoenix and a leading voice for Catholics in the mental health space was the keynote speaker. He reflected on the necessity to break the stigma around mental health and encouraged all to embrace connection and belonging as a way to mitigate isolation for those encountering mental health challenges. Bishop Dolan spoke encouraged building community and ministries of accompaniment to walk with those facing these challenges as a way to build bridges and begin healing.
As VITALity supports health, well-being and healing of the “whole person,” it’s important that we take a moment to recognize what mental health is and how our ministry works to help those facing these challenges.
Mental Health includes our ability to cope with the stresses of life, realize our abilities, learn and work well, and contribute to our community. Mental, physical and spiritual health are interconnected. VITALity meets individuals where they are and accompanies them on their journey toward hope and healing through:
- Advocating for mental health – especially for the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and their caregivers
- Personally connecting individuals with providers and resources to address individual health and well-being needs
- Offering a safe, accepting space to share feelings with a compassionate listener who will empathize and provide unconditional support through our Stephen Ministry
- Providing weekly phone calls to those who may feel lonely or isolated through our Calls of Joy program
- Assisting individuals in connecting them with mental health support groups and parish ministries, including grief and caregiving
- Educating and sharing information to promote health in mind, body and spirit
Check in with yourself regularly! Be mindful of:
- Changes in mood and/or sleep patterns
- Changes in eating habits
- Unusual difficulty concentrating
- Persistent fear or constantly worrying about health, finances or other aspects of life
- Worsening of chronic health conditions
Prioritizing your mental health and seeking help when needed are important steps you can take. VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services is here to help you and your loved ones with through caring outreach and advocacy. Call 856-583-6123 or visit vitality.camdendiocese.org.
