Bishop Thomas J. Tobin of the Diocese of Providence, Rhode Island, is calling upon the patronage of St. Dymphna, a seventh-century martyr, to guide his task force that is hoping to combat a 21st-century epidemic: the mental health of the nation’s young people. The Diocesan Task Force on Youth Wellness is developing a menu of available services that parishes, clergy, schools, parents and youth can turn to for help.
PROVIDENCE, R.I.— In response to the growing and persistent mental health crisis facing youth today, Most Rev. Thomas J. Tobin, Bishop of Providence, has created a task force to guide the Church’s response. Under the patronage of Saint Dymphna (patron saint of those suffering from mental health issues), the Diocesan Task Force on Youth Wellness will explore and recommend resources and programs to help parishes and schools, pastors and clergy, parish leaders, school administrations, teachers, and parents in recognizing and responding to the mental health needs among youth.