The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has introduced a new initiative, “Healing and Hope,” as part of its National Catholic Mental Health Campaign. The announcement comes ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10 and the Jubilee of Consolation on September 15.

“Healing and Hope” takes its name from the campaign’s introductory statement by Archbishop Borys Gudziak and Bishop Robert Barron. They wrote: “As pastors, we want to emphasize this point to anyone who is suffering from mental illness or facing mental health challenges: nobody and nothing can alter or diminish your God-given dignity. You are a beloved child of God, a God of healing and hope.”

The USCCB aims to promote healing for those affected by mental illness and include those who support them. The expanded effort introduces three elements designed to increase Catholic engagement with mental health issues.

A revitalized digital campaign will feature bishops sharing reflections through USCCB social media platforms to encourage conversation about the realities and stigmas related to mental health.

State conferences on mental health will bring together bishops, clergy, religious figures, lay people, dioceses, eparchies, and local groups for dialogue about local concerns. The first conference is scheduled for early 2026 in New Jersey.

Parishes across the country are encouraged to participate in Mental Health Sunday by raising awareness during Masses on October 11-12, following World Mental Health Day. Resources are available for parishes wishing to join this observance.

Catholics nationwide are also invited to pray the Novena for Mental Health between October 10 and October 18 in solidarity with others experiencing similar challenges.

Further information about these initiatives is available at https://www.usccb.org/mental-health.

For more details on the announcement see https://www.usccb.org/news/2025/new-healing-and-hope-initiative-seeks-amplify-mental-health-engagement-across-united