Expert: Fr. Michael - 12/4/2010

Question
I suffer from panic attacks, depression, and anxiety..also I'm very indecisive about decision making which leads some to think I may be somewhat Bipolar as well, I take 2 different medications for these mental imbalances.If this is the case would the following apply to me:

Deliberate consent of the will:


Mortal sin also requires deliberate consent. This means that you make
a free choice to commit the act.

The state of freedom is something that defines us as human beings.
Freedom is the ability to choose to act or not to act. With freedom
comes the responsibility for our choices. (See Catechism, 1731)

Sometimes, there is some factor that seriously interferes with our
ability to make a free choice. These cases reduce our culpability for
sin. Perhaps some factor slightly reduces the malice of our action.
Other times, if we're seriously unfree, it may reduce the gravity of
our responsibility for the sin, making it a venial sin.



Thanks, if this is the case then I understand about how what is mortal for some maybe venial for others.

Answer
This is the kind of individual question on which you would appropriately be given advice and counsel by your own traditional confessor, who can come to know you and knowledgeably guide your spiritual life.  If you do not have a regular traditional confessor, you should consult the Official Traditional Catholic Directory
(www.traditio.com/nat.htm) to find one as conveniently local to you as is available.  Sometimes it may take some effort, but in that effort you will enhance the grace of Faith and will develop a relationship with a confessor who can personally come to know your spiritual state and prudently guide you.