Pope Francis has asked the faithful to pray for all those who are suffering from depression.
The Pontiff made the appeal in a two-minute video released by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, the Archdiocese of Manila said.
Citing the biblical passage, “Come to me all who labor and are heavily laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28), Pope Francis asked for prayers for all those who suffer from “extreme exhaustion—mental, emotional, affective, and physical exhaustion for God’s healing mercy” as they also undergo medical intervention.”
“Let us not forget that, together with the indispensable guidance of a psychologist, which is useful and effective, Jesus’ words also help. These words come to my mind and heart: ‘Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest,’” Pope Francis said in the video.
“Let us strive to be close to those who are exhausted, to those who are desperate, without hope. Often, we should simply listen in silence because we cannot go tell someone, ‘No, life’s not like that. Listen to me. I’ll give you the instructions.’ There are no instructions,” the Holy Father added.
“Let us pray that people who suffer from depression or burn-out will find support and a light that opens them up to life,” His Holiness said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that depression has become a common mental disorder particularly this pandemic. It is estimated that 5 percent and 5.7 percent of recorded cases are adults and adults older than 60 years old, respectively.
In the country, cases of people suffering from depression have also reportedly increased.