BREAKING FREE FROM THE HUSTLE AND GRIND
BY CHRISTIAN BENTLEY
Our current capitalist system often prioritizes profit over people, placing significant stress on people’s mental health. The constant demand for productivity, coupled with economic instability, rising living costs, and an emphasis on individual achievement, creates an environment that exacerbates anxiety, depression, and burnout.
Many people feel trapped in a relentless cycle of work and financial strain, with little time to rest, reflect, or connect with others. In this reality, it is crucial to find ways to take care of ourselves, not only physically and emotionally but spiritually as well.
As someone living with bipolar 1 disorder, I have experienced firsthand how this system can take a toll. Societal pressures to maintain appearances, perform professionally, and meet external benchmarks of success often magnified the highs of mania and the depths of depression I experience. It was only by embracing my faith and seeking holistic wellness that I began to find balance and meaning in my life.
For me, the Catholic faith has been a cornerstone of my mental health journey. Practices such as praying the rosary, spending time in eucharistic adoration, and immersing myself in gospel music have provided a sense of stability and hope amid life’s storms.
The rosary, in particular, offers a healing, meditative rhythm that calms my mind and connects me to the life of Christ and the intercession of Mary. In moments of despair, the words of the Hail Mary remind me of God’s unending mercy and love, echoing the perseverance and faith of my enslaved Catholic ancestors, who turned successfully to prayer during times of suffering and uncertainty.
Eucharistic adoration calls me to sit in silent reflection before the Blessed Sacrament, grounding me in the assurance that I am never alone. While I sit during adoration, I sometimes silently sing “Jesus Is Here Right Now,” a gospel song by the late, great Black Catholic gospel liturgist Leon Roberts. It’s gospel music, rooted in the resilience and joy of the Black experience, that lifts
“It was only by embracing my faith and seeking holistic wellness that I began to find balance and meaning in my life.”
my spirit and reminds me of the strength found in my faithfilled community—a legacy of hope and thankfulness nurtured by the Josephites that continues to sustain and inspire me.
These practices are not merely rituals; they are lifelines. They have encouraged me to share my journey with others and to work toward creating communities of support and understanding.
The Catholic tradition offers rich resources for those navigating mental health challenges. Many saints, popes, and biblical figures have spoken about the struggles of the human soul and the redemptive power of faith.
St. Pope John Paul II, a champion of human dignity, once said, “Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people, and hallelujah is our song.” His words remind us that even in the darkest times, we are called to hope and renewal. Likewise, St. Dymphna, the patron saint of those with mental illnesses, provides a model of courage and intercession.
In the psalms, meanwhile, we find raw expressions of human emotion that resonate deeply with those battling mental health struggles. Psalm 34:18 assures us: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” These words have comforted me during my darkest moments, reminding me that God’s presence is a source of healing, and I do not have to give up.
My journey to wellness has fueled my desire to help others in my community. Through my work as a Catholic mental health and social justice advocate, I strive to create spaces where people can feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether it’s organizing mental health workshops, engaging in restorative justice circles, or advocating for systemic change, I see my faith and experiences as a driving force behind my efforts.
Catholic social teaching emphasizes the dignity of the human person and the importance of solidarity. This has shaped my approach to mental health advocacy and led me to focus on building relationships and addressing root causes.
In this demanding system, self-care is an act of resistance. Beyond spiritual practices, it is essential to prioritize rest,
“Let nothing disturb you. Let nothing frighten you. All things are passing. God never changes. Patience obtains all things. Whoever has God lacks nothing; God alone suffices.”
— ST. TERESA OF ÁVILA
establish boundaries, and seek professional help when needed. Therapy, medication, and peer support groups have been invaluable components of my journey, complementing my faith and prayer life.
As Catholics, we are called to foster a culture that values the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This means advocating for policies that promote mental health access, supporting one another in community, and reminding ourselves that our worth is not tied to our productivity. Sadly, this is not always easily done.
For those seeking to deepen their understanding and engagement with mental health from a Catholic perspective, I highly recommend the Pastoral Response to Persons with Mental Illness by the National Catholic Partnership on Disability (NCPD). This resource provides practical and theological insights for addressing mental health in parish settings.
Additionally, the Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers offers training and resources for those interested in supporting individuals with mental health challenges. Their work is a testament to the church’s commitment to accompanying those in need.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, we must remember that healing and hope are always possible. As St. Teresa of Ávila said, “Let nothing disturb you. Let nothing frighten you. All things are passing. God never changes. Patience obtains all things. Whoever has God lacks nothing; God alone suffices.”
May we lean into our faith, care for one another, and build a world where every person feels valued and supported. In doing so, we reflect the love of Christ and the beauty of the gospel, offering light in even the darkest moments.
Christian Bentley is a certified mental health first aid provider and peer support specialist, committed to blending his faith with advocacy for mental health and social justice. As director of evangelization and discipleship at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, he leverages his role to engage the community in the Catholic faith and in addressing mental health and social justice issues. He serves on the Council on Mental Illness and Wellness for the National Catholic Partnership on Disability. As a core team member with Josephite Vocations and co-lead for mental health initiatives with Virginians Organized for Interfaith Community Engagement (V.O.I.C.E.), he actively supports spiritual growth and mental health awareness within the Catholic Church and broader communities.
Image: Statue of St. Teresa of Ávila at Encarnación convent in Ávila, where she spent most of her religious life. It was here that she began to reform the Carmelite order, and had some of her mystical experiences.