Homily Social Justice Sunday 2020 by Frank Brennan 6

Today is Social Justice Sunday. Our bishops have issued a statement entitled To Live Life to the Full: Mental Health in Australia Today. They urge each of us to take three practical steps:

1. Reject stigmatisation of those with mental illness
2. Work for the transformation of social determinants of mental ill-health
3. Call for policies and service provision that meet the needs of the poorest, most marginalised and recognise in them the face of Christ Jesus.

At a loss how to put flesh on these bones, I consulted an experienced psychiatrist. I asked, ‘What can a lay person like me do to support people with mental illness?’ Answer: ‘Once someone is mentally ill, there’s not much you will be able to do. The emphasis must be on prevention first up.’ On one level, it’s very simple. Your mental well-being is more likely to be assured if you have a roof over your head, if you’re warm enough, if you have food in your belly, if you have someone to talk to, and if you are spared domestic violence or abuse. Better still if you’ve got gainful employment and good education. In a time of pandemic, your physical and mental well-being will be enhanced if you have a regular routine, regular exercise, healthy food, hobbies, and mindfulness exercises or meditation. And don’t keep looking at the 24/7 COVID news reports which are sure to make you lose perspective. The determinants of mental illness are biological, psychological, social, and cultural.