Here's why Congregation Or Ami focused our energies on creating a mental health and wellness retreat for teens.
Our synagogue runs a group for temple members aged 48 and up who are anticipating – or already experiencing – the challenges of growing older without family to rely upon for practical and emotional support.
Adolescent suicide is on the rise in the United States, and data indicates that suicide is a communicable disease, with one spurring others. No community is exempt: Suicide impacts our congregations, our clergy, and our camps.
A growing aspect of my work with Jewish Sacred Aging – a forum for discussions on aging for Baby Boomers and their families – has been to work with congregations to develop responses on issues related to mental health. This issue, which spans across ages and i
Many congregants suffering from mental illness choose not to seek support from fellow congregants or even clergy, and some leave congregations or don’t join in the first place because the feel they will never be accepted. There's an overwhelming need for safe, supportive groups where people with mental illness can reveal their stories, explore a spiritual connection to Judaism, and engage in social support with others dealing with similar situations.
Our Jewish tradition commands that we not stand by while our brothers and sisters suffer. That’s why the Reform Movement is joining with others across the world to provide information that offers both help and hope – especially during May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month.