Dolorosa Journal

Changes and Transition

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 16:33:00 +0000

Readers of Dolorosa Journal,

As the work of Dolorosa and Dolorosa grows I am seeking to simplify our web access and presence. Therefore this blog site will be inactive. New blog entries, the work of Dolorosa, the Dolorosa community, and Dolorosa Candles can all be found at:

http://dolorosacandles.net

God bless and see you there!

Blog Location Moving

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Thu, 21 May 2009 21:38:00 +0000

In order to make more effective of of work this blog is moving to a new location. It will be a part of the main Dolorosa site at:
http://dolorosacandles.net.
Please come by and visit, check out the candle store and the calendar of activities of Dolorosa.

Advocacy for the Mentally Afflicted ~ Sharing the work of Hope

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 01:59:00 +0000

As I work in advocacy for the mentally afflicted and their loved ones I have experienced a challenge that hinders the efforts of mental wellness advocates everywhere.
There seems for some to be a distinct "them vs. us" attitude amongst some who work in this arena. It is frequently manifested in the scenario of consumer or peer advocates against loved ones and family members seeking to help or care for a loved one. More than once I have been told that since I am not a peer, or consumer I have no right to speak for them..that I cannot understand their life. This is often linked with the fear that loved ones and family members want to have their child, spouse, partner or sibling "committed" or forced into some treatment that is against their will.
As a father of an adult son who has mental illness I have heard and felt these words deeply. As a member of our County Mental Health Board and a instructor for our local NAMI affiliate I have heard and observed this issue many times. I would ask that those who hold these feelings gently hear me out.

1) I agree I cannot personally relate to your own challenges with mental afflictions. However I can observe and feel the pain, loneliness, fear and anguish. I can also observe that there are times when a person cannot articulate their woundedness or fears. While I may not fully understand..because I love I must seek to try to speak for those who may not be able to speak for themselves. I realize that in mental afflictions much is not understood. So please do not negate or discard my caring if I too do not fully understand.

2) About the fears of commitment..treatments...I suspect that there have been families that wanted their family member "put away" as a matter of convenience or family discomfort. However I am confident they are a small minority. Frankly I have never met a loved one who wanted their loved confined to a mental institution, or to suffer the often oppressive side-effects of medication. I have yet to meet a loved one who's heart doesn't ache when they visit their loved suffering in a hospital, jail, or on the streets. Our caring is often shared against a system that still sees family and loved ones as forces to be opposed, as probable causes, or at best dysfunctional problems to be avoided. Do those who fear and oppose loved ones and family members really think we want our loved ones in those places?

3) A question...instead of seeing us as adversaries perhaps it may be good to share your concerns..but also listen to ours. You may well hear...WE ARE WORKING FOR THE SAME CAUSE..THE HOPE OF WELLNESS AND INDEPENDENCE of those with mental afflictions. The stigma, lack of resources affects the afflicted...but also their loved ones..very deeply. We cannot afford the destructive luxury of this "them vs. us" attitude. We need to respect that while we share and speak from different perspectives we also share the same work. Usually when a bridge is built it comes from two different sides. Neither is right or wrong..it is just two sides.

Please let us work together for the mentally afflicted and their loved ones.
There can never be too many voices of hope and caring.

Police Kill Suicidal Man

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 17:41:00 +0000

Once again here in Sonoma County a mentally ill individual has been shot and killed by law enforcement. (See link to story in The Press Democrat below).

Law enforcement responding to a 9-1-1 call found a man in his 30's despondent, suicidal and, according to the portions of the 9-1-1 transcripts released, threatening his father and police. Initial indications are leading to a possible"suicide by cop" situation. Investigation by law enforcement is underway as a matter of course.

Sonoma County has made progress in the attempt to better train law enforcement responding to people in psychological crises, after more than one fatal shooting of people in this tragic state-of-mind.

Yet clearly more needs to be done. The hand ringing, finger-pointing and cries for reform cannot be directed just at law enforcement. Society as a whole needs to take responsibility and recognize that the stigma, ignorance and fear associated with mental illness is to blame. This mentality precludes and hinders the development of prevention and early intervention programs that could have kept this shooting from ever occurring. It keeps individuals, families, and communities in an unjust and potentially dangerous mindset of denial and fear. We also must make ACCESS to affordable, wholistic mental health care that integrates the individual, loved ones, medical professionals and all needed disciplines into a community of care.

Many might say that this is a hopeless dream, especially with the economic chaos threatening so many good programs already. Yet with the needs and stresses of these times it is the OPPORTUNITY to respond and take the steps to learn, educate and collaborate in building a "common union", a community of care for the mentally afflicted.

www1.pressdemocrat.com/article/20081206/NEWS/812060282/1350.

God, Dogs & Mental Health

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 22:44:00 +0000

The work of Dolorosa is slowly growing. But the other day, as I was making our beeswax candles, I was reminded of the help of our two Golden Retrievers, (Pictured above, Bailey - 7 years of golden service and Henry - 7 months of...learning...golden puppy service).
Our dogs have been a significant help in the life with one who has mental illness. Their gentle caring, calming and encouragement is a trait many dog breed share and give. The help of dogs (and other animals) in pet therapy is growing in recognition with consumers, loved ones and mental health professionals.
Dogs have a special gift of love. They help bring us beyond self and despair to realize we are of value and needed. They help us to get up....and live. They bring us to realize our gentle touch and smile warms hearts all around. As St Francis of Assisi, St. Anthony of Padua and other Christians have shared the gift of God's love is seen and taught through all God's creation. It is no surprise that Christ's furry friends and servants would help us to heal, to grow in the truth of who we are. As the simple prayer says" "Lord help me become the person my dog believes me to be"
Take the time to learn of pet therapy. Take the time to pet the dog, ..go for a walk..throw a ball, go for a little ride..share the smile as the wind blows in your face.

Dolorosa Candles

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 02:18:00 +0000

As most of my readers are aware I have been working on an advocacy ministry for the mentally ill and their loved ones. It is called Dolorosa. To help support this labor that our Lord has given to my heart I invite you to visit a work of my hands: Dolorosa Candles at:

dolorosacandles.net (via the links section)

This is the online candle shop for Dolorosa Candles where you can purchase 100% beeswax candles from hand-dipped tapers, votives and assorted pillars. The proceeds will help support the work of Dolorosa.

Here is more information about this work:
Dolorosa works to:
Overcome the stigma of the mental illness and afflictions.
Provide information and education about mental illness and afflictions for those experiencing mental afflictions, their loved ones, faith communities and community groups., through literature, workshops and retreats.
To help develop accessible, integrated care that enables the afflicted, loved ones, medical professionals, faith communities and others to work together for the health of mind, soul, body and spirit.
Dolorosa recognizes that caring for the mental health of the whole person includes caring for the mind, soul, body and spirit in an integrated response of all these components.
Dolorosa is Catholic in spirituality yet recognizes, respects and encourages the sharing of all faiths in responding to the need for better care of the mentally afflicted. Dolorosa refers to the Latin word expressed in the “Via Dolorosa”, or the Way of Suffering, the Way of the Cross Of Christ. It also can be translated “the way of roses”. It recognizes the real suffering mental afflictions can bring to the individual and their loved ones. But it also recognizes the beauty and worth of the individual, regardless of their afflictions. It sees that suffering can have purpose, positive worth and beauty, regardless of the thorns.
Mental afflictions may refer to:
Mental illness, Dual-diagnosis with substance abuse; Brain injury; Traumatic Psychological injury; Mental disabilities; Life stress, anxiety and depression. While these issues are very distinct and differ they share common problems of stigma and the need for accessible, integrated care. They all affect the mind, the psyche, the human soul.
Lighting candles…
Of faith to overcome doubt,
Of knowledge to
overwhelm ignorance,
of hope to quell despair,
and
of love to conquer fear.
Your prayers and support for Dolorosa would be a blessing to many. If you are interested in hearing more or helping please let me know via the this blog's email link.

My Mentally Ill Son ~ Teaches Me About God's Love

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 21:53:00 +0000

Here is a copy of an article I wrote for St. Anthony Messenger Magazine, January 2008 Issue (Reprinted here with permission)

On a rainy day in late Autumn of 1976 I brought my wife and our first-born, a son, home to our little house in the foothills of Western Washington. As I carried him into his room that we had prepared with such excitement and joy, I was overcome with a profound sense of…”I haven’t got a clue……what I am supposed to do with this bundle of life?” Along with my feelings of joy and pride I was realizing my own inabilities, weaknesses and fears as a father. Later that day I prayed that I would always give my boy the love and care he deserved. I prayed that I would love him with the love of our Heavenly Father. I believed, as a young Protestant minister, that my family was the first and most important facet of my ministry. Those prayers and my very imperfect efforts were renewed three years later when our equally precious daughter was born. Little did I realize where those prayers would bring my family and me.
The years that followed have seen many blessing and challenges. My wife and I are now in full communion in the Roman Catholic Church, living in Northern California where I serve as a Permanent Deacon. Our daughter attends her university studies plus her job. Our son is now thirty. His path has not been what we hoped for or expected.
He suffers from mental illness. In his teen years he struggled with school. In spite of our prayers and best efforts he started to use alcohol and drugs. Our attempts to work with school resources and mental health providers brought no real solutions. His problems only increased in his twenties. In time we were observing classic indications of schizophrenia and dual disorder syndrome (the use and self-medication [by alcohol and street drugs] of the mentally ill). There have been many times when his pain, fear, and despair have expressed themselves in talk of suicide, violent outbursts or withdrawal. We have gone weeks or months not knowing where he might be or of his condition. From being a very bright, ambitious worker he is now unable to work at any sustained task. He has been in and out of jail for various offenses common for those struggling on the street, seeking to survive. Often we do not know, when the phone rings, if it will be him, or a hospital, jail, or worse. He has been in and out of mental health facilities. Only recently has he been willing to take medication again. He is still very resistant to therapy as he struggles with the intense fear of conspiracy. While these fears are very delusional to us they are deeply real to him. As a very handsome young man, others had told him he could well be a model. His appearance, in his darker times on the street, would not support that option.
As our young man has been living his difficult journey, we have shared the path. I have observed the heartache and dread of my wife as she relives the difficulties she knew growing up with a very loving, yet mentally unwell mother. I have shared, observed and learned so much from her. I have felt the anger and hurt of our daughter as she lives the pain and loss of her brother. He is alive but is not the older brother she followed and played with as a young child. And as his father I have known my own struggles.
I have known well the backward steps of denial, the rush of anger, the very real valleys of despair. The temptation of guilt is often confronted as I realize my own failures and weakness, as I ask…”what did I do wrong?” I have experienced the shame and stigma still so common with mental illness. Walking with him up the steps to the crises facility was a walk of pain and dread for me…but even more for him. I have wanted to share our son’s name in this article, because I am so proud of him. But out of respect for his dignity and understanding the reality of the stigma, I do not. There have been many deeply painful moments. Yet, and most important, I have experienced many answered prayers. I have grown in the hope that is in Christ.
My son has taught me so much of our Heavenly Father’s love. Day by day I learn to see my son (and others) has God does. I look beyond the illness or the affliction to the heart, the soul, the person that is wounded and calling out for acceptance. I am learning to listen and hear that within the delusional ramblings are hidden insights, aspirations, humor and love. And with my son’s journey I have met other profoundly precious people.
In meeting others suffering from mental illness, whether it is schizophrenia , bipolar, depression, or other diverse and complex disorders, I have met precious and gifted people. I have met men and women who long for acceptance, respect and places and people where they can experience hope, peace and love. I have also met devoted parents, spouses, partners, siblings, and friends who heroically live day-to-day with their loved one’s illness. I have also met dedicated mental health professionals who, while working in a field chronically suffering from lack of funds and the support of the politically correct and popular causes of a moment, nonetheless seek to help those often fearing the help they need.
In this journey of grace I am learning patience and perseverance as I realize how much is NOT known about mental illness. The frustration of hearing diverse and sometimes conflicting opinions and diagnosis, strategies and therapies, has brought me to realize the need for much more sharing of the resources and disciplines in responding to the mental health crises. This is even more important when we face the lack of resources for this need. The answers, the hope that is needed, will not be solely found in medication and therapy, or in prayer alone. It will be realized as we seek to share in the care of the mind, body and spirit of the mentally ill.
This sharing of resources and skills is hindered by the need for education and the healing of the stigma associated with the realities of mental illness. As I have encountered the criminalization of mental illness, I have realized that law enforcement and jail is often the most simple and favored treatment of one who is experiencing psychosis or a mental illness episode. In our own Northern California county, this winter, at least two young men have been fatally shot by peace officers as they responded to such episodes.
These encounters and ongoing lessons of loving the mentally ill continue to help me learn how to respond to those whose minds are not well. There is no one checklist or guide as to what to do or say. Here, however, are a few key principles I have found to be practical and helpful.
• Prayer: Listening to Scripture and especially being with our Lord present in the Blessed Sacrament helps to restore and strengthen the peace, hope and love of God.
• Prayer with the Saints: I have known more than one experience when my son is struggling with despair or fear when a silent rosary with our Blessed Mother, or the prayers, particularly of St. Francis and St. Anthony, help bring his soul back to quiet. It cannot be overlooked that mental illness, like all our afflictions, can be affected by the powers of evil that seek to destroy souls loved by God. St. Michael is another faithful ally in the quest for victory.
• Maintain and nurture hope: So often I now realize, that in his stormy interior life, our son looks to his mother and I for assurance, acceptance, love and hope.
• Communication with the mentally ill: In Christ’s strength, speaking simply and calmly combined with sincere listening can do much to quiet the voices and struggles within our son. While their view of the world is not always normal, it is important and it is real to them. Respectful listening can help them learn there are other views of life. Seek to share tools and options they can use for themselves as they long for independence.
• Acceptance in love: This means accepting that the delusions and struggles of the mentally ill are very real to them. This does not mean we agree or endorse their harmful concepts, but we respect, accept and seek to help them to a more stable reality and truth. We can understand that just because the mind is not functioning “normally” does not diminish their worth or significance as a person.
• Communication and teamwork with others: Understanding that while mental health professionals are very busy, as family we are an integral part of the care-giving team. If something is unclear ask questions. Support and help them as they provide medication or suggestions in therapy to a loved one.
• Education: Of myself, family, fellow clergy and all the faithful as to the needs of the mentally ill among us. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) one out of every ten individuals suffers from a mental health disorder. One of every five families has someone in their immediate family who has mental illness.
• Advocacy: The mentally ill are often unable to effectively speak for themselves. It is a crucial part of our Christian duty to speak for, and advocate for those who cannot always care for themselves.
These principles are especially relevant within the Church. We are blessed to share this journey of grace with those within our Church that personally experience or face mental illness in their loved ones. We also are called to share our hope with those outside our faith whether they are in the best of homes or the harshest of streets. Yet the Church may present a contradictory message. While Christ’s arms may be open and beckoning, the doors may be locked and barred in fear or ignorance. We have a profound responsibility to share the immense wealth of healing grace with the mentally ill and their caregivers. The late Pope John Paul II said in 1997:
"[The Church] reminds the political community of its duty to recognize and celebrate the divine image of man with actions that support and serve all those who find themselves in a condition of severe mental illness. This is a task which science and faith, medicine and pastoral care, professional skill and a sense of common brotherhood must help to carry out through an investment of adequate human, scientific and socio-economic resources...
"Whoever suffers from mental illness 'always' bears God's image and likeness in himself, as does every human being. In addition, he 'always' has the inalienable right not only to be considered as an image of God and therefore as a person, but also to be treated as such.
"It is everyone's duty to make an active response; our actions must show that mental illness does not create insurmountable distances, nor prevent relations of true Christian charity with those who are its victims. Indeed it should inspire a particularly attentive attitude..."
Pope John Paul II, International Conference for Health Care Workers, on Illnesses of the Human Mind, November 30, 1997

My son is doing somewhat better at this time. As my wife and I continue in prayer and educating ourselves we find we are better able to support and encourage his journey. We know that each day can bring the unexpected. I have no doubt there will be times of struggle and sorrow ahead and times of blessing as the journey of love and grace continues with our son. His life has not turned out as expected but I would not trade him, or my daughter, for anyone. I am so deeply grateful for both of them. Both of my kids are true gifts from Christ and I will always be proud of their courage, love and quest to live the life God has for them.
In many ways I often feel as clueless as I did that day over thirty years ago when I brought my boy home from the hospital. But I know Who has the answers. It truly is a journey of love and grace. One evening of Lent, as I lead the Stations of the Cross at our parish, I was blessed to see my son come in with my wife and share this journey with Christ. In reality that is what the journey is all about. In sharing the life of one who has mental illness we travel together a special way of the Cross. It is as we take those steps we find hope, healing and love, we find Christ.

RESOURCES for those encountering Mental Illness:
• Check you local parish and diocese for resources in your area.
• Contact you local Mental Health department for assistance and emergency care.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) : www.nami.org Check the National website and for your local chapter. NAMI”s education programs are excellent for peers and for loved ones.
• NAMI FaithNet: www.nami.org/faithnet NAMI’s interfaith network of Mental Health information and resources.
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): http://www.nimh.nih.gov/ An excellent site providing information and resources.
• Congregational Resource Guide – Mental Health Resources: http://www.congregationalresources.org/mentalhealth.asp A good listing of faith-related resources
• Hope To Healing: http://www.hopetohealing.com/ A Catholic oriented site that shares stories of hope and healing for those sharing in mental illness.

NEWS! Dolorosa Life

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Mon, 26 May 2008 17:14:00 +0000

In response to the needs of the mentally afflicted and after much prayer and work I want to share this new work. Your prayers, thoughts and response are needed and welcome.
For more information contact Deacon Harry J. Martin via email at:
douloscross@gmail.com

DOLOROSA LIFE

Dolorosa, is it the way of suffering or a rose path when walking the way of mental illness?
This word, to which the phrase "Via Dolorosa” refers, traditionally means "Way of Suffering", especially regarding the Way of the Cross of Jesus Christ. But how might it apply to the path of mentally afflicted?
 The question can be asked of the individual experiencing mental illness, wounds or disabilities. It is also relevant to the loved ones, caregivers, or mental health professionals who seek to help or care for the afflicted. The first answer would undoubtedly be a way of suffering. There can be no denying the suffering of the depressed, schizophrenic, bipolar or sufferer of other serious and mysterious disorders of the mind and soul. The suffering of the mentally impaired or those with psychological wounds is also undeniable. The fear, delusions, stigma and heart rending loneliness of one who cannot effectively relate as the world around them may desire, or expect are all tragically real.  
The suffering or challenges are also very real for anyone seeking to care, help, or simply relate to mentally afflicted. Mental health professionals can also face many difficulties working in a field that is chronically understaffed, under-financed and usually at the bottom of the list of programs that may generate popular or politically correct enthusiasm.
So, yes the way of mental illness is a path of suffering.   Yet Dolorosa can also express a path of roses. While this path is beset with painful thorns it also is a path of beauty. It is realized by those who seek to walk the Via Dolorosa with Jesus that while it is a way of passion and suffering it does lead to the resurrected Christ. It is an intense journey in the redeeming love of God. So can the path of mental illness become when it is courageously walked in the love, faith, and hope that is found with God.  It is a journey where we meet many precious and kind people traveling from diverse places and paths. We may also meet people, often cruel, uncaring, fear-filled and blinded by ignorance. Few other dimensions of life still have such a painful problem of stigma and fear.  It is a mystery that still baffles. The Dolorosa Life is one of learning and living the care of the whole person, spirit, soul (mind) and body. It is a path of sharing together seeking to discover causes, therapies and healing for these afflictions with the grace and love of God.

DOLOROSA LIFE

All lives are sacred. Yet many suffer from afflictions* of mind and soul. Those that are so afflicted are often thought to be of less worth than others seemingly more healthy.
Dolorosa Life
~ Affirms the worth and dignity of the mentally afflicted.
~ Serves to nourish peace and comfort for the mentally afflicted and their loved ones.
~ Serves to overcome injustice against the mentally afflicted resulting from stigma, ignorance and fear.
~ Serves to encourage reconciliation in lives broken from mental afflictions.
~ Serves to enable fruitful stewardship of life, helping the mentally afflicted discover their worth and abilities for life.
Therefore the purpose of Dolorosa Life is to educate, serve and advocate for the mentally afflicted, their loved ones and society based on their worth before God and all humanity. To accomplish this purpose the following goals are established:
Goals:
1) Provide information, and educational workshops for parishes and clergy that will nurture faith communities of prayer and care for the mentally afflicted, their families and caregivers.
2) Facilitate and participate in sharing information between government, private and religious care resources.
3) To encourage and provide wholistic research and education that promotes the care, health and independence of the mentally afflicted. We recognize the essential unity of the spirit, soul (psychological/mental) and body of the afflicted, and their loved ones and seek to facilitate a model of care that affirms and serves the whole person.

4) Educate and inform the public as to the worth of the mentally afflicted and our privilege and responsibility to help in their care. With knowledge the stigma of mental afflictions can be eliminated.
5) Dolorosa Life is built upon Roman Catholic spirituality yet respects, welcomes and values all people. We seek to encourage and help build an interfaith\inter-disciplinary teamwork of care for the mentally afflicted.
*Afflictions include: psychological/mental illness, disability and trauma.

"[The Church] reminds the political community of its duty to recognize and celebrate the divine image of man with actions that support and serve all those who find themselves in a condition of severe mental illness. This is a task which science and faith, medicine and pastoral care, professional skill and a sense of common brotherhood must help to carry out through an investment of adequate human, scientific and socio-economic resources...
"Whoever suffers from mental illness 'always' bears God's image and likeness in himself, as does every human being. In addition, he 'always' has the inalienable right not only to be considered as an image of God and therefore as a person, but also to be treated as such.
"It is everyone's duty to make an active response; our actions must show that mental illness does not create insurmountable distances, nor prevent relations of true Christian charity with those who are its victims. Indeed it should inspire a particularly attentive attitude..."

Pope John Paul II, International Conference for Health Care Workers, on Illnesses of the Human Mind, November 30, 1997

Spring Update

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 20:59:00 +0000

I want to apologize to all the Dolorosa Journal readers for the lapse in my blog entries. The winter has been busy. St. Anthony Messenger Magazine published my article: "My Mentally Ill Son Teaches Me About God's Love". I have been encouraged and helped by the many responses.
In the very near future I hope to share about developments of a new ministry to educate and encourage the care of spirit, soul and body of the mentally afflicted and their loved ones.
The picture is of my assistant Bailey and his new adopted little brother, Henry.
May our Lord bless you with His peace and love.

CHRISTMAS DARKNESS

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 21:33:00 +0000

The Holidays are often times of increased stress and struggle. This is especially the case for those who may struggle with mental afflictions and their loved ones. I pray that your holidays may be a time of experiencing anew the Light and Love that is Christ.

"The Light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it" ~ John 1:5

CHRISTMAS DARKNESS

Christmas lights bright and cheery
Mock and tease
Hearts and lives
Struggling and weary.

Christmas noise ceaseless blaring
Sing the chorus
of what to buy
that in our things
we can hide.

But far from bright malls
Of our discontent,
Found in the poor stable
With darkness rent.

Far from the clamor
Of this worlds noise
We can hear
In the silence.

The echo of the angels song
Calling us to move beyond.
All the empty worldly throng.

In the darkness
of our night.
Come to Him
Who is our Light.

Kneeling in the quiet
At the Virgin Mary’s side.
We look to Him
Love’s pure Light.

In trembling faith
we touch His hand.

And with the Infant’s grasp
We are held
In God’s Peace.

Dolorosa...Afflictions & Beauty

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 20:02:00 +0000

Dolorosa

Afflicted, suffering,
the path is trod.
Afflicted, suffering,
we are called.

Afflicted, suffering,
loneliness tears,
from the heart…
Who does care?

Yet when I see
the path I’m on
is shared by others
I grow strong.

When I listen
beyond myself,
I hear from others,
of our true wealth.

When in faith,
with you I walk,
when in calmness,
we can talk,

This path of suffering
we know is real.
We also find
a path of beauty and appeal.

Thorny branches,
cruel and bare,
yes may pierce,
but…with beauty rare.

Thorny branches
well may grow
to bud and bloom
and true beauty show.

Affliction, suffering,
Is it real?
Words so ugly,
have no appeal.

But when the truth,
With God we see,
By God’s love,
we grow free.

To see and know
Of which He spoke
This Dolorosa path of hope.

~~~

"If any man would come after me,
let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” "
~ Matthew 16:24

Focus, Faith, Feelings, And Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 14:55:00 +0000

The journey of the mentally afflicted, and....those who love and seek to help or care for them is, as I have said before a Dolorosa path. It is a path of suffering but it can become a path of beauty. It is not a path one should ever walk alone, although that feeling and reality may be a part of it at times. This path must be shared, if we are to find and develop the ACCESS TO CARE that I have been trying to discuss in my past couple of entries.

When traveling a path with others the focus and experiences of everyone is important. I want to thank those of you who have shared your thoughts and experiences about the mental health system, "forced treatment", drug therapy and other perspectives. Please continue to do so. I would just ask, again that you please carefully read what I have wrote and said.

First about where my faith is. My faith is in God. I deeply believe that as we trust and follow God's teaching, as we yield to the grace of Christ that healing and wholeness can be shared in many ways. Please read both this blog and my Douloscross Journal to really evaluate where I place my faith.

Regarding the mental health system I said it was "confusing, complex and dysfunctional". That is hardly a testimony of praise and faith. I sadly believe there are people in "the system" who should not be working in that field. I know there are institutions and programs that should be investigated and probably closed. But I also believe there are many very good, dedicated people in the system that are seeking to do the best they can for those they are trying to help. But...the system is broken it needs immense work. In places it needs to be demolished. In others repaired. In some places we need to further develop and improve facets that DO WORK VERY WELL.

I would also like to comment about the statement referencing the Treatment Advocacy Center's information about the mentally ill and forest fires. I share this as a firefighter, chaplain and also as one who worked on many fire investigations. I have responded to both vegetation (forest) and structure fires started by a mentally ill individuals who needed care. One fire we responded to was a home engulfed in flames. The frantic adult son was desperately looking for his mother for whom he had been TRYING to get mental health care. She had not met the criteria for mandatory care and she did not want any care. We found her, alive, with burns in a nearby orchard. I have worked with more than one adult and juvenile who,as a part of their illness, tragically used fire. My own dear mother-in-law (God rest her sweet soul), was sent to into care more than once only AFTER she started fires in her home. I am sorry it if this offends anyone but I feel it is immensely cruel and unjust to FORCE either a consumer or their loved ones to a burn unit or morgue because they could not access appropriate care. The majority of people who start fires are NOT mentally ill. However there is a very real number of people, suffering from mental afflictions who do. They need access to care.

About drug "therapy". I have believed for a long time that our culture is dangerously addicted to drug therapy. I think that in many cases drug therapy for the mentally afflicted is more about control..than healing. That is very wrong. I do not think drugs are the best or only answer. I do think that medications are a very important part of the tools and resources that should be considered and ACCESSIBLE when appropriate.
I also know many people who experience real help, healing and growth, as they use good drug therapy. Their experience is just as valid as those who have suffered from improper use of drugs in the system. I feel very strongly that NON-drug care and therapy is an area of care and response that needs much better research and development. This comes back to my conviction about the necessity of total care of soul (the mind), body and spirit of those suffering from mental afflictions.

In working together on what is, at times, a perilous dolorosa path of care for the mentally afflicted it is vital that we each share and respect the experience and perspective of each other. We may not always agree. But let's hear each other out. And, hopefully we can share our faith, ideas and resources to improve access and develop genuine care for all who are mentally afflicted.

As St. Francis prayed...
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,  Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy; O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;  to be understood as to understand;  to be loved as to love.  For it is in giving that we receive;  it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;  and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Willing...Unwilling and Access to Care

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 22:46:00 +0000

In my last entry I raised the issue of the reality that for many people facing mental afflictions it isn't just a matter of their being willing but often a matter of their ability to access the care they need and often desire. That was and is my primary focus in these current discussions.

However in the course of that discussion I referred to anosognosia or the inability of an individual to recognize and accept their sickness. This is clearly a point of controversy. However there is research and medical providers who recognize that it may well affect the mentally ill beyond the original concept that it was just an aspect of brain damage in stroke victims. I would encourage researchers, family members and especially consumers to join together to research and discuss this issue. I also would encourage a comparison to anosognosia to the more commonly accepted reality of what (in lay terms) is called.....DENIAL. What, if any is the connection?

I also referred to (and have a link to (the Treatment Advocacy Center (TAC). They have much research and information worthy of careful review. They are especially known for the subject of mandatory treatment in certain cases of severe mental illness. This is especially controversial and for some, fearful.

I want to urge, once again that we focus on providing viable access for all the mentally afflicted. I personally believe that there is much that can be done to improve and provide "points of entry" into appropriate care. Reaching individuals, "where they are" and helping them to a place of care is necessary and possible. Dialogue, study, understanding and courage can greatly improve this access.

I also believe it is necessary to explore and understand that there may be those who may need mandated treatment. As a firefighter and a chaplain I have had to respond to too many individuals, and their loved ones who have resorted to violence in their desperation to escape their inner torment. Often these were individuals who had not met the criteria for "mandatory" care. I believe it is unjust and cruel to essentially require mentally afflicted individuals or their loved ones to have to suffer injury or death before the concept of mandatory care is broached. Suicide and violent abuse should not be the threshold of deciding whether someone must be cared for. If someone is severely injured or sick they often may not realize their need for care (due to shock, or other factors)..Yet...care WILL occur. As a firefighter I have had to assist more than one physically suffering victim to be restrained so they could be transported to care. Some were fully conscious yet unwilling. Yet ethics, law, basic moral care determines...they must have care. These victims later were consistently grateful for the care they, intially, did not want. Why should not this equal level of care be provided in appropriate levels of mental affliction?

I simply ask that all concerned individuals dialogue, listen and together address the fears, issues, concerns that would in any way hinder access to care for the mentally afflicted. None of us are in this alone. Mental Health professionals don't have all the answers, neither do family and loved ones. This also applies to consumers as well. IF true and effective access to complete and effective care is to be realized we must be willing to discuss and address all facets of the problem and solutions, whether they are appealing or not.

This blog, has a particular perspective of the faith/spiritual dimension of mental health needs and care. In that light I have observed a consistent factor in the needs and issues of accessing care, mandatory care issues and our response. That factor is FEAR. I have witnessed that one of the major roadblocks to accessing care is the FEAR, at times the paranoia, that blinds an individual from seeing the way to a healthier life. In emergency services planning we have to address fear issues, especially potentials of panic. I used a simple but effective equation to address the reality of panic (and fear). It is:

Panic = Ignorance + fear.

To resolve fear in accessing care we must address our ignorance. Dialogue, study, sharing is ....mandatory if this learning is to occur. With better understanding and knowledge, ignorance is reduced and resolved. With ignorance being addressed we can better look at our fears. Here is where faith can help. Scriptures share.."there is no fear in love..but perfect (mature) love casts out fear (I John 4:18). Love is a challenge for most everyone. Yet it is in love, caring for, helping each other that the courage is found to move beyond our affliction..to grow in wholeness.
This is why Christ so often shared.."Fear not" and affirmed His love for all, especially for those most wounded and afflicted.
I am convinced that realistic access to care that fully recognizes and supports the whole individual, that accepts and loves them, will do much to provide the healing care that is needed (through medicine, therapy, and especially caring loving relationships). I also believe that as this access is improved and care continues to grow that the need and issue of mandatory care will be reduced dramatically.

So, my friends, let's continue to share the care together in faith, courage and love.

The Mentally Afflicted Receiving Care...Willing...or Able?

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 17:35:00 +0000

Help and care for the mentally afflicted in our American society is permeated with the concept of “consumer rights”. It is often expressed in the concept that an individual must be willing to receive help and care. It is inconceivable that someone be forced into care except for very strict and limited criteria that attempts to determine if the individual is a danger to themselves or others. This attitude is a traced back to the tragic and real abuse of the mentally afflicted often being inappropriately committed to improper institutional care.

But the mantra of “they must be willing” has developed into a fine tuned excuse to restrict individuals from needed care. It fails to recognize that for many people suffering from mental illness they MAY NOT BE ABLE TO ACCESS the care that they need and truly WANT!

In this day and age of the Americans With Disability Acts (ADA) it is inconceivable that a program would be in operation that would REQUIRE a sight and hearing impaired quadriplegic to navigate and manipulate stairs and intricate locked doors and gates in the process of access to receiving care for their physical afflictions. Yet this is the reality that many individuals suffering from mental illness perceive and experience as they long for help from their afflictions.

The vague, changing, confusing process known as “Point of Entry” into care challenges even the most stable and rational individual to understand or to navigate. To an individual unable to process the concept of .........
* Finding a phone number or place of care,
* phoning for an appointment, working through voicemail or a multilingual message,
* remembering, traveling or waiting through the process of getting to a place of care,
* or going to an emergency services facility where they encounter surely personnel,
uniformed guards, rattling keys and slamming doors where they MAY be referred to
other locations, more waiting and a confusing unexplained process or steps that fuels
their paranoia and delusions....
* this is a process that only spells failure, fear and rejection.
This is a locked door to which the complex combination is not available.

So the mentally afflicted person will then go...
* to the streets
* to self -medicate on drugs or alcohol because the PROCESS of obtaining legal
medication was a process they were UNABLE TO ACCESS.
* to the socially popular model of care known as JAIL when the behavior is too bothersome.

It is not always a matter of BEING WILLING to receive help and care. It is more often a matter of being ABLE TO ACCESS the care that is needed. When someone struggling with delusional, paranoid realities confronts a system that is complex, confusing and dysfunctional the result is often failure.

The inability to access is also fueled by the medically recognized factor of anosognosia, or the unawareness of the illness. To require someone to want care and help when they may not even realize their sickness or danger is uncaring if not absurd.
It is urgently needed for the mental health professionals, caregivers and loved ones of the mentally afflicted and the community at large to work to understand the inability of many mentally afflicted to process and enter care that is needed. It is then essential that doors be opened, and people be available and willing to listen, care and help. What can be done to resolve this crises of care?
~ Teamwork between consumers, family, caregivers be mandatory.
~ Full inclusion of holistic care that recognizes and cares for psychological, physical and spiritual facets of need and care.
~ Awareness and education and changes of the legal process of care that decriminalizes
mental illness but also mandates appropriate care and access.
~ Requiring ALL programs to be accessible, plains-speak points of entry to an appropriate place of care.
~ Improved funding from all facets of the community.

The streets, jails and morgues of our communities are no longer acceptable places of care for the mentally afflicted unable to access care. Instead of paranoid inducing process and restricitive walls of rejection the time has come to be people that provide places and programs and communities that listen, respect and care for the whole person.

National Resources for Information and Advocacy:

The Treatment Advocacy Center {TAC}:
http://www.treatmentadvocacycenter.org/
National Alliance for the Mentally Ill {NAMI}
http://www.nami.org/

Mental Illness Awareness Week & Day of Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 14:10:00 +0000

The week of October 7th - 13th, 2007 has been designated Mental Illness Awareness Week. On Tuesday, October 9th there will be a Day of Prayer for Mental Illness Recovery & Understanding. Let's share, and most importantly, pray for the healing and loving understanding of those who are mentally afflicted.

The NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) FaithNet website has information and prayer service resources available. they are found at:

http://www.nami.org/MSTemplate.cfm?Section=Day_of_Prayer&Site=FaithNet_NAMI&Template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=48012

Peace in the storms

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 21:09:00 +0000

One of the great challenges of facing mental afflictions is the endless questions and seeking of information, guidance and help. It is especially in a times of crises that the need for answers is so pressing and seemingly, at times, so futile.
It is often in just such times that we can know the help and love of God in ways that can exceed any knowledge or feelings.

Every one then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house upon the rock; and the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat upon that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. ~ Matthew 2: 24-25
Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
~ Phillipians 4:6-7

Mental Afflictions & the Spirit

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 23:00:00 +0000

Are those who experience mental afflictions (mental illness, disablities, or trauma) unable to know any "quality of life"? Looking specifically at the issue of faith the question arises. Are the afflicted unable to experience the grace and help of God's mercy in their lives? If they cannot understand God's Word, the Sacraments..how then can they "know" what is happening. Well .....first we must be honest, and say that if understanding is essential to experience God's grace and mercy then most, if not all of us are in serious trouble.
To help answer the question of God's grace working in the mentally afflicted let me share a true story. Many years ago when I was a Protestant pastor my wife and I would visit a residential home for mentally disabled women in our community. We visited every other week and would have a simple time of prayer and worship with a couple of hymns and Bible reading and a simple short reflection and prayer. The residents, about fifteen or so, of varying degree of disability all came. Several were non-ambulatory and non-verbal as well. All, however, were welcome. We had been sharing in these times for several months and the ladies all seemed to enjoy our visits. One lady, one of the older residents had severe Downs Syndrome. She was non-ambulatory and non-verbal. She would be wheeled into the room each Sunday afternoon and just sit in her own world. Her interaction with the other residents and staff was virtually non-existent, although she was loved by all. One day however something happened. We had been concluding our time with a hymn and simple chorus of worship. To all of our amazement Sharon suddenly started to clap to the time..as best she could...and she had the most beautiful of smiles. From that time on..while we still served there, this dear sweet soul would enter the room in her own world. Yet leave having worshipped, in her way..and with us, our Lord and Savior. Did she understand what we were doing? Probably not. Did she experience the mercy and grace of God in her spirit, soul and body? To anyone who saw her..without a doubt.
I have also seen God's grace calm and comfort my own afflicted son as we pray. The prayers of our Blessed Mother are distinctly helpful as we support him in a rosary or at the Stations of the Cross.
How about you? If you would like to share how God has helped those you love who experience mental afflictions email me or post a comment to the Dolorosa Journal.

Mental Illness and Right to Life

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 23:41:00 +0000

The need to respond and care for those with mental illness is enmeshed with the call to defend and cherish all life as a sacred gift. The challenge of suicide risk among many suffering from mental afflictions is being manipulated by those who advocate the evil lie of the "right-to-die".
This past February in Switzerland their high court ruled that the"right-to-die" physician suicide law applied to those with mental illness, ( http://www.inclusiondaily.com/archives/07/02/05/020507sweuth.htm ). This is just one example where those who feel they can judge and dictate the quality of life for others is being manipluated to destroy life.
In upcoming blog entries I will be exploring the need for all of us to vigilgent, informed and fighting to protect the lives of and developing the care of all, especially those who are mentally afflicted.

Heavenly Father,you who created all life, open our eyes to truly see the value and worth of each life.
For those who may know the struggle of mental illness, wounds or disabilities,
help them to, in their heart, and mind, to know the truth and peace of your love, the value of their life.
Help their loved ones, caregivers and all that they may meet to see beauty of their soul
and know the Presence of your Holy Spirit within them.
Help us each to defend and cherish them and all life.
In Christ's name we pray. Amen.

Prayer for the Mentally Afflicted

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 21:09:00 +0000

The needs of the mentally afflicted are profound. They are met with a mixture of government programs struggling for funding and support, noble non-profit foundations and projects, the dedication and care of family, loved ones, and care givers. They are confronted every moment of every day by the individuals who struggle with mental illness, disability or wounds.
These needs far surpass the visible resources in our community.
But lest we despair it is essential to remember that Christ's love and grace extends to all, especially the afflicted. It is His design to reach the afflicted and care for them through...us.

For this to happen we must pray, fervently, faithfully. The well known, "Peace Prayer of St. Francis gives us a simple, powerful prayer for all of us seeking to care and respond to the mentally afflicted.

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy;
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

NEWS Fuel for Prayer & Work ~ 15 June 2007

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 20:53:00 +0000

The call to respond and care for the needs of those living with the wounds and sickness of soul and mind brings us to need news and information. Knowledge shared brings insights, encouragement and dialogue. I will be frequently sharing news, links and information that can help fuel our prayers and work.
Here are some recent links of note:

1 in 4 Adults suffers symptoms of mental illness at least once yearly
From: The Daily News Journal - Murfreesburo, TN

Reverend's Group Gives Mentally Ill Spiritual Stability
From: The Ledger - Lakeland, FL

Health: Faith 'good for mental health'
From: BBC Online Network

Pax et bonum

Resurrection Realities & Mental Health Needs

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Sat, 21 Apr 2007 17:47:00 +0000

Here is the cyber-version of my message for the Third Sunday of Easter Mass:

The Presence and message of Christ in God’s Word today bring together the sorrow of His Passion and the hope and joy of His resurrection. The sorrow-filled denial of Simon Peter is confronted and redeemed by a merciful Christ on the shore of Galilee. In that restoration St. Peter receives the commands from Christ that affirm his calling and commission as leader of the Church. In the Gospel story itself, and with St Peter’s apostolic succession that blesses our church, we are brought to look at another series of events of recent days and weeks. These tragic events have brought to our attention a subject that most would rather not face, the challenges of mental health in our society. Today’s message, while more specific than most that I share is, I believe, very relevant to far more people than we may want to realize. It brings us to seek to reconcile resurrection realities and mental health needs.

The immense tragedy that occurred at Virginia Tech this week is increasingly being recognized as a mental health tragedy. Nothing can minimize the wrong that was done and the suffering that resulted by the actions of this man. Yet the very victims of this wrong cry out for answers, why, what could have been done to prevent this from happening. Also we realize that the victims include the families of those who have died, the family of the gunman and in a real sense the gunman, Seung-Hui Cho (joh sung-wee) himself.

Even in our own county the tragic needs and problems of the mentally ill have been very evident. Both those suffering from mental illness and family members have died violent deaths in recent weeks as a testimony to the inadequate response and care of those suffering from mental health issues.

And I share from my own experiences, as a father of a much-loved son who has serious mental health needs. While his life is not what he, or his mother and I would have ever asked for, it has, however, taught us so much of God’s mercy, love and hope. In his intense struggles my son has shown a courage and tenacity to live of which I am very proud.

What then, if any, is the connection between today’s resurrection promises and realities and the mental health needs we face?

First let’s hear the words of a recent successor of St. Peter himself, on this subject. John Paul II said in 1997: "Whoever suffers from mental illness 'always' bears God's image and likeness in himself, as does every human being. In addition, he 'always' has the inalienable right not only to be considered as an image of God and therefore as a person, but also to be treated as such. "It is everyone's duty to make an active response; our actions must show that mental illness does not create insurmountable distances, nor prevent relations of true Christian charity with those who are its victims. Indeed it should inspire a particularly attentive attitude...”
The words of St. Peter’s successor bring us to be “fed and tended” as Christ commanded so long ago. Also in those words we start to learn and live the answers of the resurrected Christ to the needs of the mentally needy, God’s precious sheep.

Mental Health needs: Our Psalm expresses well the anguish of one in anguish of soul and mind. Psychology, the “study of the soul” is a study and response to one of the most major parts of our soul, the mind. In the Psalm King David expresses this anguish that is felt when the soul, specifically the mind is traumatized or wounded by life. In looking to those realities we can understand that mental illness is not a trauma but a sickness of the soul and mind that brings the same and at times more intense anguish, despair and fear. (Some mental illness may result from mental trauma, however). While it is a soul sickness it entangles and infects soul, body and spirit. The needs of the mentally afflicted cannot be consigned to just the mental health professional. It is a need that requires the care of mind, body and spirit. Yet that care is lacking.
Mental illness is still suffering with a stigma that builds walls of fear instead of bridges of relief. Many other causes are politically correct and popular. But funding and support for mental health is chronically cut, under-supported and left to glean non-existant budget leftovers. Families and those suffering are often feared, shunned or left to experience the reality of the criminalization of mental illness. When those with mental health needs repeatedly experience the failure of care that is often so prevalent, tragedy may result. This brings us to ask: What should be done? What can or should I do?

The Mental Health response: As the late John Paul II instructed: “It is EVERYONE’S duty to make an active response”. This response calls us to::
Share Knowledge: Education and sharing of information and resources for mind, body and spirit is essential. No one place or person has the entire answer, except God. And it is Christ who calls us to share and act on His behalf. Learn about mental illness. We probably have here today those who experience mental illness as well as their loved ones. Learn that they and their loved ones are…people, created in God’s image. And learn how to help them.
Share Acceptance: The delusional world of the mentally ill is real to them. That reality needs to be accepted and respected. It does not mean that we have to agree or support false delusions. It means that in accepting their reality we can then perhaps accompany them to better, true realities.
Share Hope: Despair and loneliness is one of the most common conditions experienced by the mentally afflicted and often their loved ones. That despair can lead to fear and anger resulting in tragedy. Calm, real hope, rooted in God’s love may well enable someone to receive the scope of care they need and deserve. That care can result in improvement and stability.
Share Love: God’s love will conquer fear, stigma and ignorance. Christ’s love nurtures, it encourages and fosters acceptance that leads to healing. Love does not always need to understand the struggles of mental illness. It simply shares in real compassion, the shared passion of Christ where resurrection realities are found.

Some may ask: Where was God that day in Virginia Tech? God may ask: "Where were we when the cries for help came? Where are we when cries come yet again from those in anguish, rejected and tormented by the realities of mental afflictions, sorrow or hopelessness?
May we each, instead of building stigma and fear, reach out and, share in the healing stigmata and love found in the wounds of Christ where the hope and healing of His resurrection is made real.

Virginia Tech Tragedy ~ Many Victims Crying Out

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Sat, 21 Apr 2007 03:40:00 +0000

The tragic violence at Virginia Tech this week has generated an immense volume of sensational media coverage, genuine sorrow and a collective examination of the heart-rending events. Whether one looks at the precious faces and lives of the brutally murdered, the mysterious and tormented life of Seung-Hui Cho, the shame and remorse of his family or the families of all impacted we see in each and every person a victim crying out. The cries for mercy, hope, understanding and healing love resonate to the heart of God. But many would ask: "Where was God in all this?" God could well ask "Where were we when the cries for help came? Where are we when cries come yet again from those in anguish, rejected and tormented by the realities of mental afflictions, sorrow or hopelessness? God longs to reach out through you and I to comfort, help heal. We may wisely realize we have not the wisdom, the answers, the power to respond to such needs. Yet as we but pray and yield to God we experience the grace that St. Therese affirmed when she said: "Christ has no body, now on earth..but yours". As we yield our words, hands, feet to Christ we may well then pray with St. Francis:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy;
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Instead of afflicting and perpetuating the stigma that helped fuel Seung-Hui Cho's increasing isolation and ultimate terrors may we instead share the healing stigmata, the wounds of Christ where hope and healing can be found.

Dolorosa, Way of suffering or rose path?

noreply@blogger.com (Deacon Harry) — Tue, 17 Apr 2007 17:34:00 +0000

Dolorosa, is it the way of suffering or a rose path when walking the way of mental illness? This word, from where the phrase "Via Dolorosa" is built, traditionally means "Way of Suffering", especially regarding the Way of the Cross of Jesus Christ. But how might it apply to the path of mental illness?
Whether the question is asked of the individual personally experiencing mental illness, a loved one, caregiver, or mental health professional the first answer is probably...way of suffering. There can be no denying the suffering of the depressed, schizophrenic, bipolar or sufferer of other serious and mysterious disorders of the mind. The fear, delusions, stigma and heart rending loneliness of one who cannot effectively relate as the world around them may desire or expect, is tragically real.
The suffering is also very real for anyone seeking to care, help, or simply relate to a loved-one for whom we care. Mental health professionals work in a field that is chronically understaffed, under-financed and usually at the bottom of the list of programs that may generate popular or politically correct enthusiasm. So, yes the way of mental illness is a of suffering.
Yet the phrase "Dolorosa" lends itself to also being expressed as "Rose path". Returning to the Via Dolorosa it is realized by most who seek to walk that path, in faith, with Jesus, that while it is a way of passion and suffering it does lead to the resurrected Christ. It is perhaps, more simply an intense journey in the redeeming love of God. So can the path of mental illness become when it is walked in that same love, faith, and hope that is found in God.
It is a journey where we meet many precious and kind people from diverse places and paths that they have traveled. We also meet people, often cruel, uncaring, fear-filled and blinded by ignorance. Few other dimensions of life still have such a common problem of stigma and fear.
It is a mystery that still baffles. It will take the care and study of mind, body and spirit, together, to discover causes, therapies and healing for these afflictions.
This web journal seeks to share information and stories of what has worked, or failed (roses or sufferings). This is especially in the spiritual dimensions of the journey of mental illness. Your Web servant is a Roman Catholic Permanent Deacon (see my other blog for more information http://douloscrosswebjournal.blogspot.com/ ). However people of all faiths and diverse spirituality are welcome.
May God bless you in you journey your dolorosa.

Deacon Harry