United for Jami mental health event

Jami, the mental health service for the Jewish community, has marked its seventh annual Awareness Shabbat (MHAS), writes Michelle Rosenberg.

The initiative, set up by Jami to raise awareness, is supported by hundreds of synagogues, schools, youth groups, universities, organisations, individuals and families, providing an opportunity for people of all ages to focus on their own mental health and wellbeing of themselves and others.

Jami chief executive Laurie Rackind, said “huge strides” has been taken by the community in recent years, adding: “There is no doubt by coming together to talk and learn about mental health, we gain more power as individuals and as groups to support those around us. Feeling comfortable to openly talk about the problems we are having, in the same way we may talk about physical illness, brings us closer to creating a more accepting and inclusive community where no one has to feel alone.”

Events, included a Zoom webinar with Rabbi Yoni Rosensweig on the intersection of mental health and Judaism, and a United Synagogue MHAS Kabbalat Shabbat with Rabbi Daniel Epstein of Western Marble Arch synagogue.

An online night school explored Jewish identity and mental health and the charity hosted a community gathering at its newly-expanded and renovated Head Room café in Golders Green.

Jami sta delivered age-appropriate sessions on mental health at Immanuel College, Hasmonean High School for Girls and Hasmonean High School for Boys, and gave talks at various synagogues.

At the Jewish Life Centre and at Hendon United synagogue, Rabbi Shalom Hammer told of his daughter’s tragic death and highlighted the many issues surrounding mental health challenges.