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April 21, 2023PROVIDENCE – Most Rev. Thomas J. Tobin, D.D., Bishop of Providence, and the Diocesan Youth Task Force have rolled out a new resource that focuses on supporting youth mental wellness. The "Be Well" youth mental health support guide offers concrete, practical supports and guidance for consideration for parents, families, clergy, educators, faith formation and youth ministry staff and others who work with or care for youth in the Diocese of Providence.
The Diocese of Providence Youth Task Force was established in 2022 by Bishop Tobin to help address the current mental health crisis among young persons. Prior to the pandemic, rates of psychological distress among young persons were already escalating and since the onset of the pandemic in 2020 symptoms of anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicidal ideation have increased dramatically.
"We are well aware that recently there has been a rapid and intense increase in mental health problems in our society, especially among young people – young adults, teenagers and children, " said Bishop Tobin, "I am convinced, however, that the faith community, the Church, has a unique role to play in responding to this crisis. We have professional, pastoral and spiritual gifts we can bring to help support and heal the wounded and frightened members of our community. And, as always, we trust that our human efforts will be complemented by the powerful grace and unfailing compassion of our Heavenly Father."
The new resource has been shared across the diocese with parishes, schools and youth-related agencies, offices and ministries. Print copies are available free of charge from the diocesan Office of Faith Formation (401-278-4646); digital copies can be found online at dioceseofprovidence.org/bewell.
