Our Works of Charity / David Bethuram

Removing the stigmas around mental health can lead to healing and hope

For too long, mental health has been clouded by stigma and misunderstanding, making it a difficult subject to discuss openly. However, as awareness grows and mental health issues are increasingly recognized, the need to dismantle harmful taboos and foster supportive conversations has never been more urgent.

Mental health stigma often arises from fear, misinformation and deep-seated societal beliefs. Cultural perspectives, historical misconceptions and even the words we use can contribute to the discrimination faced by individuals with mental health conditions. In some cases, stigma leads to lost opportunities. Employers may hesitate to hire or promote someone with a history of mental illness.

Because mental health conditions are often invisible, those who haven’t experienced them firsthand may struggle to understand their impact. Overcoming stigma requires education and a commitment to humanizing mental health experiences. When public figures share their struggles, they help challenge misconceptions. But there is still much work to be done.

Stigma has profound consequences, affecting both mental and physical health. Many individuals internalize negative stereotypes, leading to self-stigma that lowers self-esteem and discourages them from seeking the support they need. Without access to proper care, mental health challenges can escalate, leading to greater distress and isolation.

This is why Archdiocesan Catholic Charities Counseling Services is dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality mental health care for individuals, families, children and couples of all faiths. Our compassionate team offers a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions and challenges without fear of judgment.

Understanding the additional burdens faced by those living in poverty, Catholic Charities ensures that financial limitations never prevent someone from receiving care. We offer a sliding fee scale based on family size and income and accept Medicare, Medicaid and third-party insurance to make mental health services accessible to all.

Gabriel was one of our clients. He felt increasingly disconnected from friends and family, and when he did spend time with others, he dreaded it. His vision for his future became unclear and self-doubt took hold. Gabriel was struggling with severe social anxiety and uncertainty about his identity. Determined to make a change, he reached out to Catholic Charities’ Counseling Program.

At first, Gabriel was remarkably quiet during his sessions. But over time, he began to share more about his experiences—his struggles with low self-esteem, negative outside influences and the stress he faced at home. With the support of his therapist, Gabriel worked on building confidence, setting goals and exploring new interests.

Through their weekly sessions, Gabriel discovered a passion for music and growing plants. He gained the courage to pursue his dreams, eventually graduating with a degree in information technology. To prepare for his career, Gabriel and his therapist practiced mock interviews, which helped him land a full-time position.

Today, Gabriel continues to achieve the goals he once doubted he could reach. His therapist is incredibly proud of his progress, and their sessions now focus on catching up about his newfound confidence and exciting opportunities—like taking a train ride to visit friends or attending a professional conference overnight, things he now looks forward to with enthusiasm.

• Depression can affect anyone and often presents both emotionally and physically. Common symptoms include:
• Persistent fatigue and low energy
• Insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Irritability or restlessness
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Changes in appetite (overeating or loss of appetite)
• Persistent sadness, anxiety or a feeling of emptiness
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Guilt, worthlessness or helplessness

If you or someone you know is struggling, remember help is available. Seeking support is a sign of strength, and no one should have to face mental health challenges alone.
 

(David Bethuram is executive director of the archdiocesan Secretariat for Catholic Charities. You can contact him at dbethuram@archindy.org.) †