For those who suffer from depression

In his November prayer intentions, the Pope said “let us pray that people who suffer from depression or burn-out all find a support and a light to open them to life”. He said “overwork and work-related stress cause many people to experience extreme exhaustion — mental, emotional, affective, and physical exhaustion”.

The intention was prepared by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network.

“Sadness, apathy, and spiritual tiredness end up dominating people’s lives, which are overloaded due to the rhythm of life today,” he said.

Pope Francis thus encouraged everyone to reach out to those around us who are depressed, desperate, or without hope. And he advised against comforting others with too many words.

“Often,” he said, “we should just simply listen in silence, because we cannot go and tell someone, ‘No, life’s not like that. Listen to me, I’ll give you the solution.’”

“There is no solution,” remarked the Pope. However, he continued, besides “indispensable psychological counseling”, Jesus’ words can help us and others to find solace: “Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

With that advice in mind, Pope Francis wrapped up his prayer intention video message with a renewed invitation to assist those around us. “Let us pray that people who suffer from depression or burn-out will find support and a light that opens them up to life,” he prayed.

The November edition of The Pope Video was created in conjunction with the Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers, which offers spiritual support for people suffering from various forms of mental illness.

Pope Francis’ call for us to pray and assist those who suffer from depression is therefore an important and timely invitation.