Symposium on mental health in a post-pandemic world held at Elms College

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – A symposium on mental health will be held Saturday at Our Lady of the Elms College in Chicopee.

The “Mental Health Challenges in a Post-COVID-19 World: Pastoral Responses” symposium included Eric Ranstrom, spiritual care manager at the St. John Vianney Center and adjunct lecturer in the Department of Religious Studies at Fairfield University in Connecticut; Several speakers including Mr. , according to the Diocese of Springfield, as does Ariel Laudermis, a clinical psychologist at the Midwest Massachusetts VA Health Care System based in the Springfield/Northampton area.

“We will be discussing why mental health symptoms and drug use among young people will worsen in a post-pandemic world. We will talk about what symptoms we see and how we should talk to those who are suffering. , and we'll discuss what resources might be helpful,” Laudermis said. “It’s important that people in ministry understand how to address mental health needs, because some people don’t get the care they need or don’t want to see a mental health professional. For many, ministry is an important mental health resource.”

“We need a pastoral response to mental health issues because we are both spirit and spirit,” Ranstrom said. “Attendees will leave this symposium with an understanding of how the pandemic has brought us all into new relationships with anxiety, grief, and the possibilities and challenges of connection with God and each other. I hope you recognize it in the.'' he added.

The symposium is sponsored by the Diocese of Springfield and the Elms College Theological and Pastoral Institute. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul of St. Mary's Parish in Hampden is also assisting. The event will be held from 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Mary Dooley College Center at Our Lady of the Elms College.