Who Was Saint Dymphna?
St. Dymphna was a young Christian woman who lived in the seventh century. Born in Ireland, she was the daughter of a pagan king and a devout Christian mother. At some point, Dymphna’s mother had her secretly baptized and raised her in the Faith. Her mother’s witness led Dymphna to embrace the Faith with fervor, including, as tradition reports, dedicating her life to her Lord Jesus Christ through a vow of chastity. However, Dymphna’s life took a traumatic turn after her mother tragically died. Her father, suffering from deep grief and mental illness, sought to marry a woman who resembled his late wife, with his attention sadly—and sinfully—becoming focused on his own daughter. To escape her father’s disturbing plans, Dymphna fled with her guardian and priest confessor, Fr. Gerebernus, and a few loyal friends to Antwerp, a city in modern-day Belgium. They eventually settled in the nearby small town of Geel (Gheel).
What Is St. Dymphna the Patron Saint of?
St. Dymphna is the patron saint of those who suffer from mental illness, as well as lesser forms of anxiety and emotional distress. (Her patronage also embraces runaways, victims of sexual abuse, and those with epilepsy.) St. Dymphna’s intercession has been sought by countless individuals struggling with mental health challenges, and her legacy of miraculous healings in Christ has inspired devotion for centuries. Because of her personal suffering and tragic death, many people turn to her for comfort, hope, and strength in times of emotional turmoil.
Mental Health, Stress and Anxiety
How Did St. Dymphna Die?
After settling in the town of Geel, Dymphna and her companions lived in peace for a short time. However, her father eventually tracked her down. When she refused to return with him, he became enraged and ordered her execution. According to oral tradition, when his men refused to carry out his command, Dymphna’s own father beheaded her in a fit of madness. Fr. Gerebernus was also killed for helping her escape. Dymphna was only around fifteen years old when she was martyred for her faith and purity.
Why Does St. Dymphna Hold a Sword?
Christian art often depicts St. Dymphna holding a sword, which symbolizes both her martyrdom and spiritual victory over evil. The sword represents her courage in standing firm in her faith, even in the face of death. It also serves to remind us of her role as a protector of those suffering from mental and emotional struggles.
Devotion to St. Dymphna and Miraculous Healings
Devotion to St. Dymphna has grown over the centuries, particularly in the town of Geel (modern-day Belgium), where she was martyred. The current Church of St. Dymphna, which was consecrated in 1532, became a center of pilgrimage, known for the miraculous healings of those suffering from mental illness. Many people who visited her shrine reported being miraculously cured, and Geel has developed a reputation as a place of compassionate care for those struggling with psychological disorders. To this day, the town remains an example of Christian charity and understanding toward those with mental health conditions.
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health challenges, know that the Catholic Church has always emphasized the dignity of every person, body and soul. Seek professional help when needed (see our related guide), but never underestimate the power of prayer and the saints’ intercession with our divine Lord. St. Dymphna, pray for us!
Saint Dymphna Prayer Printable PDF
Prayer to Saint Dymphna
Good Saint Dymphna, great wonder-worker in every affliction of mind and body, I humbly implore your powerful intercession with Jesus through Mary, the Health of the Sick, in my present need. (State Intention.) Saint Dymphna, martyr of purity, patroness of those who suffer with nervous and mental afflictions, beloved child of Jesus and Mary, pray to them for me and obtain my request.
(Pray one Our Father, one Hail Mary, and one Glory Be.)
Saint Dymphna, virgin and martyr, pray for us.
Patron Saint of Depression and Anxiety
The Church of St. Dymphna and Her Feast Day
In the sixteenth century, the current Church of St. Dymphna was built in Geel. Pilgrims continue to visit this sacred place, seeking her intercession with the Lord Jesus for healing and peace. Her feast day is celebrated on May 15, and during May—Mental Health Awareness Month—many Catholics honor her by praying for those affected by mental illness.
St. Dymphna’s Legacy in the Catholic Church
The story of St. Dymphna has been passed down through oral tradition, strengthening the faith of many throughout the centuries. Today, Catholic Answers continues to share her inspiring story and encourage devotion to this powerful intercessor. We also encourage the faithful and others to address mental health concerns via ordinary means as well (see, again, our related guide). St. Dymphna’s example reminds us both of the Church’s long-standing commitment to caring for those who suffer from mental illness as well as the power of God’s grace to bring healing.
How to Help Someone Who Is a Chronic Worrier
Additional Resources
Quick Q & A – Why are Saints Joseph and Dymphna both on my medal?
The Catholic Encyclopedia – Saint Dymphna