Guide to Ongoing Formation for Priests (Ascension)

GOFP 264

Guide to Ongoing Formation for Priests

might have a mood disorder. In addition, people who regularly self medicate to sleep often need referral.

264 Exercise: Everyone should exercise. However, many priests choose not to. The key concern centers on a priest’s decision to decrease his exercise significantly. He should be asked why. If he expresses a lack of energy and loss of pleasure in life, this development might indicate depression. If he feels less fit to exercise, a medical referral may be indicated. 265 Substance Use: Smoking and alcohol consumption are not uncommon for priests. Questions a diocesan bishop might raise include the following: Has there been an increase in substance use? How much and for how long? Anyone who regularly consumes multiple alcoholic drinks a day should be asked to discuss his drinking patterns. Any use of illegal drugs or abuse of prescription drugs is a red flag. If even one person has suggested that a member of the clergy has a problem with substance use, the matter should be investigated. Emotional Health Problems 266 Mood Issues: Any ongoing, intense experiences of depression, anxiety, impulsiveness, obsessions, or compulsions indicate the need for a referral. 267 Anger Issues: If a priest has discouraging or upsetting experiences, how does he handle them? Aggressive behaviors need to be weighed according to the following factors: Can he speak objectively about his behavior after the fact? Is he able to focus primarily on his own shortcomings? Are the level and frequency of aggression of concern to others?

124