Blessed be the God… who comforts us in our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort others in affliction…
—2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Befriend the afflicted.
Jesus is served and loved in the least of these. So we must reach out to those beset by all affliction, especially the mentally ill, the depressed, the lonely, the aged, and those who are without communion. Develop intimate friendships with such persons.
Practice kindness.
Practice charity for the “weird.” There are those who some may call odd that are estranged from others and have few friends. Do not tear them down and chastise those who do. If they offend or provoke, be gracious and provide such persons with the benefit of the doubt. Offer loving kindness and care to those who suffer from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, identity crises, autism, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and other neuroses.
Protection from evil.
Some people are afflicted by demons. Obtain holy water, exorcism salt, and blessed sacramentals for those haunted by such spirits. Encourage such persons to repent of sin and build virtue, so their souls may put on the armor of God to defend from malicious attack. Tell them to pray fervently and frequently, especially the St. Michael prayer, the prayer of the St. Benedict medal, and the Hail Mary. Most importantly, counsel participation in the holy sacraments, and conversion if they are not members of the Church.
Build others up.
Refuse to gossip. Chastise those who do and do not participate. Reflect often on whether your words are just, good, and building others up. Create a culture of justice, which renders love to all.