Bishop Conley champions faith, resilience and mental health awareness

Bishop James Conley, a revered leader of the Catholic Diocese in Lincoln, Nebraska, has become an emblem of vulnerability and resilience through his candid discussions about mental health.

His courageous transparency about battling depression, anxiety, and situational PTSD has transformed him into an inspiring figure—not only for his diocese but for individuals worldwide grappling with mental health challenges.

“I have to tell you, I’m going through a rough spot right now,” he confessed at the beginning of our interview with a striking vulnerability.

“I even thought about not going through with this interview. It’s just… the same kind of things I dealt with before have come back, and this time, with a vengeance.”

Despite continued challenges, Bishop Conley’s openness emanates resolve, anchoring his story in hope.

A Summer marked by darkness
Bishop Conley’s battle began in earnest during the turbulent summer of 2018.

Reflecting on the time, he said, “The Cardinal McCarrick scandal and the Pennsylvania grand jury report dominated the headlines.

At the same time, I was dealing with clergy misconduct cases and overseeing a diocesan investigation.”

The professional pressures coincided with personal crises that shook his foundation.

“My sister was diagnosed with breast cancer, and shortly after, a young priest in our diocese passed away unexpectedly,” he shared.

“It was an overwhelming combination of events. I started experiencing insomnia, anxious thoughts, and my physical and mental health deteriorated.”

The culmination of these stressors led him to the Mayo Clinic in 2019, where doctors diagnosed him with situational PTSD, major depressive disorder, and anxiety.

“I began therapy and started medication,” he recalled, “but I still felt like I couldn’t manage my responsibilities. It was clear I needed more help than I realised.”

Healing through faith and holistic care
By December 2019, Bishop Conley took a step that surprised many.

With the Holy Father’s blessing, he took an 11-month leave of absence, retreating to Arizona to focus on his recovery.

“I worked with a medical doctor, a psychotherapist, and a spiritual director, all of whom were Catholics who understood the integration of faith and mental health,” he explained.

His time in quiet simplicity with a Catholic family proved instrumental.

“Being surrounded by normal family life grounded me,” he said, his voice softened with gratitude.

“Spiritual direction and structured daily routines gave me the space to heal.”

“When I was at my worst, I couldn’t even pray as I used to,” he admitted.

“I learned that you can’t simply pray your way out of these struggles. Grace builds upon nature. If your body and mind are suffering, connecting spiritually becomes incredibly hard.”

Instead, he leaned on foundational practices like the Rosary, the Breviary, and attending Mass.

“The Psalms, in particular, became my refuge. Their raw honesty about the struggles of the human heart allowed me to connect with God even in the darkest moments.”

Recovery is ongoing
Returning to leadership in late 2020 marked a new chapter for Bishop Conley, but he readily acknowledges the continued work required to maintain mental health.

“I’m reinvigorated, but recovery is ongoing,” he said. “You have to prioritise your health just as you prioritise your spiritual well-being.”

He continued, “Leaders often take on too much, and not for selfish reasons—but we need to recognise when it’s time to ask for help.”

His advice is simple yet powerful.

“Eat well. Sleep enough. Balance work with leisure. Connect with what is tangible, like nature or music. And disconnect from screens. They are a significant contributor to our modern mental health crisis.”

Breaking the stigma
Bishop Conley is determined to elevate conversations around mental illness within faith communities.

“We need to normalise talking about mental health,” he emphasised. “Mental illness is part of our human fragility. It’s no different than having diabetes or a heart condition. There should be no shame in seeking help.”

His impassioned plea to destigmatise mental health has resonated widely, particularly through his pastoral letter on the topic.

“It’s humbling to know it has helped others,” he said of the letter’s reach. “That was my purpose in writing it. I want to show people that there’s nothing shameful about these struggles.”

His advocacy extends beyond words. Bishop Conley highlighted initiatives such as Catholic Psych and the John Paul II Center for Healing, which provide resources and support to those grappling with mental health issues.

“These efforts align perfectly with the Church’s role in serving the whole person,” he said.

Hope, faith, and resilience
For Bishop Conley, hope remains the driving force behind his mission to bridge faith and mental health.

“God doesn’t want us to live miserable lives,” he proclaimed. “True joy comes from our relationship with Jesus and the knowledge that we are destined for eternal happiness with Him.”

To those feeling weighed down, he offers a piece of wisdom.

“Take it step by step. Even if surviving the day feels impossible, hold onto the belief that this darkness will pass—but if it returns, you are still not alone. Just show up, even in small ways.”

His personal struggles have reshaped how he ministers to others, with an even deeper empathy toward their battles.

“I’ve realised that everyone is fighting something, even if it’s not obvious. Community is crucial. No one should face these challenges alone.”

A testament to perseverance
Bishop Conley’s continued openness serves as a beacon of light, urging individuals and leaders alike to prioritise faith, seek help when needed, and cultivate resilience. His story is a powerful reminder that hope and healing are possible despite profound difficulties.

“Just like our faith teaches us,” he concluded, “we’re created for both holiness and happiness. Together, they lead to the flourishing life God intends for us.”