Holy Women's History Month: Saint Dymphna

Little is known about the life of Saint Dymphna, but author Lawrence G. Lovasik was able to procure enough information in his 1953 book, Saint for the Afflicted, that offers insight into her path to sainthood. Before becoming a saint, Dymphna lost her mother when she was only 14 years old, and her father was so distraught after the loss of his wife that he seemingly fell into a deep depression and almost became manic in trying to fill the void left by his deceased wife. It is because of him that Dymphna became known as the “Patron Saint of Nervous and Mental Ill Patients,” as she was forced to flee her home when he tried to marry her. Ultimately, after refusing his proposal, she was killed by her own father.  

I first learned about Saint Dymphna over two decades ago while pursuing my bachelor's degree in psychology. I had been experiencing some personal challenges and somehow stumbled upon this Irish saint, who I would later learn is the patron saint for mental illness. As I’ve often heard from others, the saints often find us rather than us seeking them first — and Dymphna definitely found me when she knew I would need her most.  

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A Powerful Intercessor 

Saint Dymphna became a prominent and powerful intercessor in my life after I returned from what turned into a traumatic experience on a study abroad in Peru. Diligently working toward receiving my final credits towards a double major in both psychology and Spanish, I decided this study abroad would be the perfect way to culminate my undergraduate studies. I had previously participated in a study abroad trip to Spain, which was amazing, and I hoped for a similar experience in Peru. However, about two weeks into the trip, our professor suffered from encephalitis, and our trip was cut short. 

The return home from Peru was very chaotic. Since I had received a scholarship to be the teacher’s assistant, I was in charge of getting the five of us back home from Peru. During that time, I wasn’t fully able to process everything that happened because I went on auto-pilot, and, as a result, I ended up suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Having previously dealt with anxiety, I thought I could handle everything myself, but the events that led me to my official diagnosis of PTSD were too much for me to handle. This was around the time Dymphna found me. I honestly don’t even remember who shared her story with me, but suddenly, I found myself holding a prayer card and medal, clinging to them for dear life.  

The next several months were spent in therapy as I continued to process everything that happened, not realizing just how traumatized I was because it had been easier to pretend I was okay, but having witnessed my professor's emergency had long-term effects on me. Each time I experienced these flashbacks, I would just recite to myself, “Saint Dymphna, pray for me,” over and over until I was able to calm myself down.  

A Friend for Life 

Since my first encounter with Dymphna, she has continued to show up for me. She was there with me when my parents passed away, a friend of sorts who provided comfort and solace when I felt like I was spiraling out of control. She has not only become a friend to me but also a source of hope and inspiration. Mental illness, unfortunately, carries a stigma with it, and admitting you have a mental illness of any kind, even if it is something that is seen as “temporary,” like PTSD, is difficult for those of us who face it every day.  

I do my best to ask Saint Dymphna for her intercession when I hear of someone struggling or going through a hard time because I know what it feels like to feel so alone in the world. But now I have Dymphna and share her with anyone I encounter. I ask her to intercede for all those who suffer silently because I know she is a powerful source of hope and inspiration. I hope you will find comfort in her, too, should you find yourself needing help.

Saint Dymphna, pray for us. 

During Women's History Month, Catholic Mom writers are celebrating the women who have inspired their faith journeys—whether canonized saints, saints in progress, or beloved women from Scripture. Through personal reflections and heartfelt stories, they share how these holy women have touched their lives, offering wisdom, strength, and a deeper connection to God. Join us as we honor the spiritual legacy of these remarkable women and the lasting impact they continue to have on our hearts and souls.)

Copyright 2025 Jennifer Thomas
Images: Holy Cross Family Ministries