Ave Explores: Stress, Anxiety, and Mental Health

Courtesy of Ave Maria Press. Used with permission. All rights reserved.[/caption] The new edition of Ave Explores begins this week and takes an in-depth look at stress, anxiety, and mental health. In this multimedia series, clinical experts and those who have struggled with mental health issues will help everyday Catholics better understand grief, addiction, loss, spiritual direction vs. therapy, depression, suicide, and forgiveness from a Catholic perspective. We also offer a list of resources where you can seek more information.

Courtesy of Ave Maria Press. Used with permission. All rights reserved.[/caption] As a preview to the series, Leah Darrow, Catholic author, speaker, and former contestant on America’s Next Top Model, appeared on the Ave Explores podcast with host Katie Prejean McGrady to talk about dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, “mom guilt,” and finding peace through spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and daily Mass. The Ave Explores podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Play Music. Here’s some of the content — podcasts, videos, and articles — you’ll find during the four-week series:

Week 1 focuses on why we need to talk about mental health issues. Experts include Dr. Robert J. Wicks, Roy Petifils, and Gary Zimak.
Week 2 looks at faith and mental health with Deacon Ed Schoener, Allison Ricciardi, Fr. Rob Galea, Tommy Tighe, and Roy Petitfils.
Week 3 considers addiction and grief with Scott Weeman, Mary Lenaburg, and Dr. Greg Popcak. Look for a social media exclusive on infertility by Carmen Santamaría later in the week.
Week 4 will wrap up the series with healing and forgiveness with Bob Schuchts, Sr. Miriam James Heidland, and Fr. John Burns.

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If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. If you're having suicidal thoughts, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area at any time (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline). If you are located outside the United States, call your local emergency line immediately.

Copyright 2020 Ave Maria Press About Ave Maria Press: Ave Maria Press was founded by Fr. Edward Sorin, C.S.C., in 1865 and is recognized as a leader in publishing Catholic high school religion textbooks, parish resources, and books on prayer and spirituality. Ave Maria Press is a ministry of the Congregation of Holy Cross, United States Province of Priests and Brothers.