While primarily recognized for his theological and philosophical insights, St. Thomas’ work laid the foundation for understanding the human person in a way that still holds relevance today. His approach to psychology emphasizes the integration of faith and reason, free will, and the importance of self-knowledge—concepts crucial for living a flourishing life.
At the core of Thomistic psychology is the understanding that humans are composites of both body and soul. St. Thomas Aquinas teaches that we are not simply souls inhabiting bodies or beings reduced to physical processes. Instead, we are an inseparable union of material and spiritual principles. This integrated approach allows for a fuller, more nuanced understanding of the human person in psychological terms.
A central tenet of Thomistic psychology is the notion of free will. According to St. Thomas, humans are rational beings with the capacity to make choices. We are not simply driven by biology or external forces; instead, we have the ability—and responsibility—to align our thoughts and actions with what is true, good, and beautiful.
Psychological struggles, such as anxiety, depression, or addiction, often arise when we stray from this alignment, when our will is disordered or disconnected from reality. These difficulties occur when we fail to live in accordance with our true nature. Thomistic psychology encourages the pursuit of self-knowledge, helping us better understand our intellect and will. By cultivating this self-awareness and shaping our desires around the good, we not only improve our mental health but also grow in holiness, bringing our lives into greater harmony with God’s design.
A metaphor St. Thomas might use is that of a fish in water. The fish may seem limited by its environment, but it can only thrive in the water, where it was designed to live. Similarly, human beings cannot flourish when we stray from our true nature. We are most fulfilled when our lives are in alignment with the truth and goodness of reality, guided by the integration of body and soul, reason, and faith.
Spend time learning about St. Thomas' view of human nature—combining body and soul, faith and reason— and you will find yourself growing in you sense of self and mental health.
St. Thomas, pray for us.
The Wisdom of "The Wind in the Willows"
“No animal, according to the rules of animal-etiquette, is ever expected to do anything strenuous, or heroic, or even moderately active during the off-season of winter.” - The Wind in the Willows
Wouldn't it be nice if humans could follow this rule, too? Winter invites a natural urge for rest, yet for many, it’s often a time when sleep becomes disrupted, affecting mental health in significant ways. While we can’t spend the whole winter hibernating, we can remind ourselves of the critical role sleep plays in maintaining well-being.
Good sleep is essential, and here are some reasons why we should prioritize it—especially in the winter months.
1. Sleep stabilizes moods
Research shows that a healthy amount of sleep helps regulate anxiety and depression. Poor sleep can worsen these conditions, while a solid rest improves mental clarity and emotional balance. One easy way to ensure better sleep quality is by avoiding screens for at least an hour before bed. The blue light from phones and computers can interfere with the natural production of melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep.
2. Sleep aids memory processing
Sleep helps consolidate memories, transferring information from short-term to long-term storage. This concept was vividly depicted in the movie Inside Out, where characters represent the brain’s functions. During sleep, the brain organizes, integrates, and stores the day’s experiences, ensuring that we retain what we’ve learned and experienced.
3. Sleep improves emotional regulation
Have you ever noticed how a nap can completely change your mood? It’s not just your imagination. When we don’t get enough sleep, our emotional systems become out of balance, often resulting in irritability or emotional outbursts. Proper rest allows us to better regulate our emotions and respond to challenges with a clearer, calmer mind.
4. Sleep aids healing
When we sleep, our bodies enter a restorative phase, especially for stress-related systems. The brain and body can repair and restore themselves, promoting recovery from the day’s physical and mental wear and tear. This healing process is vital for maintaining overall health, particularly during times of stress.
While we don’t need to hibernate like animals, a consistent sleep schedule of about seven hours per night can offer numerous benefits, including mood stabilization, improved memory, better emotional regulation, and enhanced healing.
If you’re still struggling to get enough rest, it may be worth reaching out for further support. Winter blues, seasonal shifts, or deeper, more complex issues might be affecting your sleep quality. Don’t hesitate to seek help if necessary.
