Mental Health Awareness Month
Keeping Connected May 2024
Dear Friends,
Each shabbat, when we pray the Mi Sheberach, we include the lyrics written by Debbie Friedman, “Bless those in need of healing with r’fuah sh’leimah: the renewal of body, the renewal of spirit, and let us say, Amen.” Debbie Friedman’s updated version of the traditional Jewish healing prayer highlighted that health and well-being is not just about physical health. By giving equal status to the renewal of spirit, Friedman helped to open the door to conversation about emotional well-being and mental health. I think talking about mental health is always important, but in particular I want to highlight that May is Mental Health Awareness Month.
I think it is important to raise awareness about the mental health concerns people face and I wanted to share with you information about one organization that I have recently become aware of, The Blue Dove Foundation. This is a description from the organization’s website that talks about what the foundation does: “In the Jewish community, discussions about mental illness and substance abuse tend to be rare, if they happen at all. As a result, many individuals and their families suffer in private and lack the information necessary to address their issues. The Blue Dove Foundation is working toward advancing these conversations, eradicating shame and educating the community.” Whether you, a family member or a friend needs to access to mental health supports, the Blue Dove Foundation can help with a wide variety of resources. I hope you will take the time to look at the Blue Dove programs and resources whether for yourself or others. The link is https://thebluedovefoundation.org.
I also wanted to share information about another organization that can be very helpful. NAMI: The National Alliance on Mental Illness is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization. As an organization NAMI provides supports for millions of Americans affected by mental illness. NAMI includes more than 700 NAMI State Organizations and Affiliates that work to raise awareness and provide support and education to those in need. https://www.nami.org/Home
There are many personal and professional reasons why I am a supporter of NAMI: The National Alliance for Mental Illness. In my work as a rabbi, it is evident that mental health is a significant issue that our community needs to address. Far too many people of all ages lack the resources to find caring and talented mental health practitioners. Far too many people still face the barriers of stigma that comes with grappling with issues like depression, anxiety, addiction, mood disorders, eating disorders and more. I have been particularly disheartened to see how many young people in our community are facing this pain and far too many have had to navigate the difficult task of finding therapists, psychiatrists, partial hospitals, support groups, and in-patient services. Other than offering support and resource information, the most important thing I can do professionally is to help raise awareness and to help de-stigmatize the mental health challenges folks face.
Personally, I have not been immune to these issues. In my early 20’s I lost a sibling to suicide. At the time there was little conversation about mental health issues and stigma and shame were the main reactions. Over the course of my life I have tried to bring the issue of suicide out of the shadows and now more than ever, as I see the rising rates of teen suicide on the rise, I think it is even more important to be open about my story. Also, even more personally, I think it is important to be open about our own mental health challenges. In my life, I had the good fortune of having wonderful mental health professionals during difficult times. I am grateful to have had these resources but know that many people lack such supports. NAMI helps through advocacy, peer support and more to help ensure that all people can receive the help they need.
This year, as a sign of that commitment I will be participating in NAMIWalks on May 18th. If you would like to walk with me or help to volunteer you can find more information at
https://namimass.org/nami-walks-massachusetts/
Most of all, if I can be of any support to you or your family, or if you are in need of resources, please do not hesitate to reach out to me, your doctor or the above resources. No one should feel alone.
Warm regards,
Rabbi Shoshana M. Perry