St. Dymphna
Patroness of Mental and Emotional Disorders
Feast Day: May 15
Biography
St. Dymphna was an Irish princess of the 7th century, the daughter of a pagan king named Damon and a beautiful Christian woman. When her mother died, Damon descended into madness and, driven by his derangement and his wife's resemblance to Dymphna, pursued his daughter with terrible intentions. Dymphna fled to Gheel (in modern-day Belgium) with her confessor, the priest St. Gerebernus, and a small group of companions. They lived quietly, caring for the poor and sick. When her father eventually tracked them down, he had Gerebernus killed and, when Dymphna refused to return, beheaded her himself. She was only fifteen years old. After her death, many people suffering from mental illness, epilepsy, and emotional disturbances were cured at her tomb. The town of Gheel became world-famous for its compassionate treatment of the mentally ill — a tradition that continues to this very day, with families in Gheel still taking mentally ill patients into their homes as boarders. St. Dymphna remains the most invoked saint for all forms of mental and emotional suffering.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
Lord God, who has graciously chosen St. Dymphna to be the patroness of those afflicted with mental and emotional illness, grant through her intercession that all who suffer from these conditions may find peace, healing, and comfort. Help us to treat all who suffer with compassion, patience, and love, and to see in them the face of Your Son. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Dymphna, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Dymphna, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.