Saint Dymphna is the Church’s patron of those who suffer from anxiety, depression, and mental and emotional distress. This nine-day novena entrusts to her intercession all who long for peace of mind and healing of heart — for ourselves or for someone we love.
How to Pray This Novena
Pray the prayers below once a day for nine consecutive days, holding your intention in your heart.
The Daily Prayer
Lord, our God, you graciously chose Saint Dymphna as patroness of those afflicted with mental and emotional illness. She is thus an inspiration and a symbol of charity to the thousands who ask her intercession. Grant, Lord, through the prayers of this pure, youthful martyr, relief and consolation to all who suffer such trials, and especially those for whom we pray. (Mention your intentions.)
Good Saint Dymphna, worker of miracles in the lives of those who suffer in mind and spirit, I turn to you with confidence. Through your intercession, may the Lord grant peace of mind, health of soul, and hope to all who are weary. Saint Dymphna, virgin and martyr, pray for us. Amen.
When to Pray This Novena
The novena may be prayed at any time, and is especially fitting in the days before her feast on May 15.
About Saint Dymphna
Saint Dymphna was a young Irish Christian of the seventh century who fled to Belgium to escape her father and was martyred for her faith at Geel, near Antwerp. From the Middle Ages, the sick in mind and spirit have been cared for at Geel in her name, and she has been venerated ever since as patroness of those with nervous and mental afflictions. A National Shrine of Saint Dymphna stands in Massillon, Ohio.
Related Prayers and Devotions
A Prayer for Anxious Thoughts
Prayers by Need
Browse Prayers to Saints
Sources: Prayers follow the traditional Novena to Saint Dymphna and the USCCB Mental Health Novena. Historical detail from the National Shrine of Saint Dymphna. This is a sensitive topic; anyone struggling with mental health is encouraged to seek the support of a trusted professional.