A Welcoming Community for People with Mental Illness

Mental health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and interact with the world. It is deeply connected to our emotional health, shaping our relationships, productivity, and even our physical well-being. Mental illness, which affects 20% of Americans annually, is not a character flaw but a medical condition that requires understanding, compassion, and appropriate treatment — not judgment.

Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding mental illness often prevents people from seeking the help they need. Many individuals suffer in silence, overwhelmed by shame. This silence can be devastating-not just for those struggling, but also for loved ones who support them. It is time to challenge the narrative around mental illness.

During October, Cedar Rapids will join the nation in recognizing Mental Illness Awareness Month. This annual observance is an important reminder that mental health challenges are common, but they are also treatable, and recovery is possible. It serves as a call to action for us, as a community, to foster welcoming places and inclusive policies for all. More importantly, we are challenged to build healthy communities and work places for those affected by mental illness.

Since 2008, the Catholic community in Cedar Rapids has been a strong supporter of mental health in hosting the Mental Illness Awareness Mass. This year, the 17th annual Mass will be held on Oct. 6 at noon, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 120 5th St. NW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This service offers a space for people with mental illness, their families, and the broader community to come together for fellowship, prayer, and spiritual support. As Father Dennis Miller, the pastor at St. Patrick’s Church, profoundly stated, "The Lord’s embrace is meant for all, especially those who feel unseen or forgotten."

Spirituality plays a key role in emotional well-being. For many, faith can provide solace, hope, and a sense of belonging — especially for those struggling with the isolation and rejection often associated with mental illness. The annual Mass offers an opportunity for collective healing and fostering an environment where mental illness is accepted, and those affected are welcomed with compassion.

After the Mass, a reception with a presentation by Jackie Smith Duggan, Director of Crisis Services at UnityPoint Health, will follow in the parish center. Duggan will emphasize the critical role of community support, early crisis intervention, and access to mental health services. Resources from Catholic Charities, National Alliance on Mental illness (NAMI) Linn County, Abbe Center for Community Mental Health, Foundation Two, and Linn County Access Center will be available.

Treatment for mental illness has made great strides in recent years. Individuals now have access to a wide range of evidence-based therapies, medication, and community-based services, all of which can significantly improve mental health. Mental illnesses, like physical health conditions, vary in severity. Schizophrenia, for example, affects only 1% of the population but accounts for a substantial portion of health care resources due to its complexity. Yet, with appropriate treatment and early interventions, individuals with schizophrenia can experience better functioning and lead meaningful, productive lives.

Supporting those with mental illness is not only about providing psychological care. Spiritual support, through events like the Mental Illness Awareness Mass, help to reduce stigma, offer hope, and provide acceptance of people with mental health issues. Spirituality can be empowering, healing, and a reminder that "God is bigger than all we must face."

By supporting people with mental illness in our homes, workplaces, schools, and worship centers, we honor our call to care for each other. Together, we will be advocates of a welcoming, inclusive community with intentional practices and thriving places. Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness: you are not alone.

Mona McCalley-Whitters PH.D., is a licensed psychologist, the former executive director of NAMI Linn County, and a mental health advocate Dr. Alan Whitters, M.D., DFAPA, is a board-certified psychiatrist, both inpatient and outpatient services with 35 years of practice.