Encouraging clergy to look after their mental health

A new resource aimed at improving the mental health of the clergy is being distributed throughout Northern Ireland.

The practical and helpful toolkit to promote emotional wellbeing amongst clergy has been produced by the suicide prevention group Flourish!

The Flourish! group includes Lighthouse Ireland, clergy from across the Christian churches in Northern Ireland, the Churches Community Work Alliance NI and the Public Health Agency (PHA).

Fiona Teague, Health Improvement Manager with PHA, said: “Clergy carry out important and valued work looking after their congregations. Very often those who care for others, such as the clergy, don’t take time out to look after their own mental and emotional wellbeing, and this can lead to stress and ill-health.”

Copies of the new ‘Flourish! Self-Care’ toolkit will be sent to 1,315 members of the clergy across all denominations.

The new booklet includes advice for clergy on taking care of their mental health and emphasises the importance of striking a balance between work, family or friends, leisure and rest.

Simple steps set out in the booklet to maintain good mental health include eating regularly, exercising, making time for self-reflection, spending time with others and taking a break during the work day.

Jo Murphy, Manager of Lighthouse Ireland, added: “Members of the clergy lead busy lives and provide a listening ear and support for their congregations during some very challenging times. We want to encourage the clergy to take a little bit of time out throughout the day and reflect on looking after their own mental health.”

Fr Cathal Deery, a Catholic priest from the Clones Parish in the Diocese of Clogher, said: “I think that clergy will find this resource very useful. It can be difficult to find the time to look after your own mental health. This toolkit gives some simple steps to take and advice on looking after your mental health. The toolkit emphasises that self-care is not selfish or indulgent, rather that it is essential.”

Flourish! also offers a range of training courses as practical support to help churches respond to vulnerable people. Training includes faith-based modules and other existing training such as Mood Matters, Mental Health First Aid, self-harm awareness, SafeTALK and ASIST courses across Northern Ireland.

Copies of the toolkit and for further information on Flourish! visit www.wewillflourish.com

If you or someone you know is in distress or despair, call Lifeline on 0808 808 8000. The helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also access the Lifeline website at www.lifelinehelpline.info