Mi Sheberach for Mental Health: Cultivating Mental Wellness with the Jewish Prayer for Healing by The Blue Dove Foundation

Mi Sheberach for Mental Health: Cultivating Mental Wellness with the Jewish Prayer for Healing

Distributed by: The Blue Dove Foundation 1200 Ashwood Parkway, Suite 400 Atlanta, GA 30338 TheBlueDoveFoundation.org Info@TheBlueDoveFoundation.org

Names and Cover and content © 2021 the Blue Dove Foundation Inc. Edited by Sheri Panovka Contributors: Maddie Siegel, Gabby Spatt, and Lisa Ziv Cover design by Denise Brilliant at Brilliantbox Published for noncommercial, charitable use by the Blue Dove Foundation. For reprint or redistribution requests, please contact the Blue Dove Foundation.

Disclaimer: This book is intended as a resource for individuals and clergy members in the Jewish community. It does not take the place of applicable federal or state laws or regulations relating to the subject matter. “Mi Sheberachs for Mental Health” is a reference aid only. It is not intended to offer medical or mental health advice or diagnoses. For all medical or mental health care questions, please contact a qualified medical or mental health care provider.

Dedication

We dedicate this book... To those living with mental health struggles and substance use disorders and to those who have tragically lost their lives. To the individuals who are struggling to find help—whether they are afraid to seek it or do not know where to turn. We hope the words of these prayers, adapted from the traditional mi sheberach, help you find comfort in yourself as you begin the journey of healing. To those who care for or simply about others who are struggling and support them as allies.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

About the Book

Acknowledgments

About the Blue Dove Foundation

Mi Sheberachs for Mental Health

Mi Sheberachs for Anxiety and Stress

Mi Sheberachs for Depression,

Loneliness, and Isolation Mi Sheberachs for Substance Abuse,

Addictive Disorders, and Recovery Mi Sheberachs for Suicide

Mi Sheberachs for Healing and

Strength Mi Sheberachs for Self-Affirmations,

Self-Love, and Self-Esteem Mi Sheberachs for Support from the

Community Mi Sheberachs for Parents of

Struggling Children Writing Your Own Mi Sheberach

Our Partners

Resources

Jewish Mental Health Resources

Mental Health Hotlines

ABOUT THE BOOK The Blue Dove Foundation believes Jewish prayers and rituals can help to strengthen our mental well-being, resilience, and recovery. Faith is an important part of healing for many, and Jewish thinkers and leaders historically have brought the two together. Creating this book during a pandemic-induced, certifiable mental health crisis confirmed for us the strong connection between faith and healing.* When someone is ill or recovering from an illness or an accident, we often recite a mi sheberach to wish them a refuah shleimah, a “complete healing” or “full recovery.” But Jewish tradition invites us to adapt and interpret texts in ways that create meaning for the needs of our times. Today, that need is wishing a “complete healing” for those struggling with mental health. The mi sheberachs shared here come from a series of ongoing workshops presented by the Blue Dove Foundation in partnership with various Jewish organizations across the globe. The workshops explore Jewish values and prayers as they relate to mental health, and one of the activities is for participants to write their own mi sheberach with a partner on a mental health topic that speaks to them. The results of this exercise did not disappoint! We were inspired by these impromptu prayers and are pleased to share them with our readers. We wish we could have included all of them in this book and hope we can use them in the future. In creating our own versions of a traditional Jewish prayer for healing, we can engage with Jewish text in a way that is personal, meaningful, and impactful in our own lives. We encourage you to explore what a mi sheberach might look for you, your loved ones, and your community.

The book contains various mi sheberachs organized and grouped by topics: •

Anxiety and Stress

•

Depression, Loneliness, and Isolation

•

Substance Abuse, Addictive Disorders, and Recovery

•

Suicide

•

Healing and Strength

•

Self-Affirmations, Self-Love, and Self-Esteem

•

Support from the Community

•

Parents of Struggling Children

The mi sheberachs in this book can be interpreted in different ways, and many of those written for broad appeal can apply equally as well to specific situations and settings, whether at home, work, school, camp, synagogue, or anywhere else. As you read through them, think about the common themes that resonate with you and how you can benefit from their healing words. You may encounter various emotions while reading through the ones that are relevant to your own experiences or those of someone you know. We hope you will channel those feelings into your own mi sheberachs and have provided space toward the end of the book to write them down. Each section begins with an introduction that has been adapted from the Blue Dove Foundation’s Jewish Mental Wellness Toolkit, which we developed in response to continuous requests for help in the area of mental health. As a practical guide for everyday use, it offers guidance and support for transforming our culture along with practical and concrete information about mental health and wellness. Created through a Jewish lens, this Toolkit is full of resources, facts, and suggested readings. We hope it will empower all of us to turn hope into action. Learn more at thebluedovefoundation.org/toolkit.

*When we began this book, many people were feeling isolated and depressed due to the social distancing measures stemming from the coronavirus pandemic. There is no doubt COVID-19 exacerbated the mental health crisis we’re experiencing. Fortunately, however, people are talking about it now, and it wasn’t surprising to see a large number of COVIDrelated mi sheberachs. But as we finished the book, the world has mostly opened up and started to ease toward some semblance of normalcy. People no longer need to stay isolated, and while we still find them meaningful, many of the mi sheberachs no longer are timely. For now, anyway; let’s hope they remain that way. If you would like to read those mi sheberachs, you can find them online at thebluedovefoundation.org/covidmisheberachs.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Blue Dove Foundation expresses our utmost gratitude to the individuals and organizations that played a role in bringing this resource to life. We are thankful to the partners who have worked with the Blue Dove Foundation to present our Jewish Approaches to Mental Wellness: An Exploration of Jewish Values and Prayer workshop. We owe a special thanks to Rabbi Brad Levenberg of Temple Sinai in Atlanta for his inspiration and contribution to our first mi sheberach interpretation and for sharing his thoughts about the prayers. And a big mazal tov to everyone who helped make this book a reality. When dedicated people with a true passion for tikkun olam (repairing the world) work together, anything is possible.

ABOUT THE BLUE DOVE FOUNDATION

Who We Are The Blue Dove Foundation was created to help address the issues of mental illness and addiction in the Jewish community and beyond. Based in Atlanta, we work with people and organizations across the United States and around the world. The Jewish community is not immune to the problems the rest of society wrestles with when it comes to mental health and substance abuse. Yet we as a group too often have refused to acknowledge and discuss the issues. As a result, many individuals and their families suffer privately and lack the information necessary to address their struggles. Recognizing the importance of collaboration when it comes to solving this community problem, we accomplish our work through program, promotional, and support partnerships. The Foundation values both our existing relationships and future partners whose missions align with ours.

Our Mission To educate, equip, and ignite our Jewish community with tools to understand, support, and overcome the challenges presented by mental illness and substance abuse. As a community with a focus on tikkun olam, we work to eradicate the shame and stigma surrounding these issues. Once we achieve this goal, we can begin to improve and save lives.

Our Work 1. Educate and raise awareness about mental health within the Jewish community. 2. Produce powerful and engaging educational resources about the connections between mental wellness and Judaism. 3. Spearhead and design programs that can be easily replicated in communities across the country, like mental health shabbat dinners, community training programs and more.

Why the Dove In the book of Genesis, Noah released a dove after the great flood in order to see if the water had subsided. It came back carrying a freshly plucked olive leaf (Hebrew: ‫ עלה זית‬alay zayit), a sign of life and of God's bringing Noah, his family, and the animals to a renewed land. The dove represents peace of the deepest kind. It soothes and quiets our worried or troubled thoughts, enabling us to find renewal in the silence of the mind. Its roles as a spiritual messenger, maternal symbol, and liaison impart an inner peace that helps us go about our lives calmly and with purpose. Some believe the dove also represents hope, while others believe it denotes freedom. Bringing peace, life, hope, and freedom for those facing addiction or other mental health challenges is the goal of the Blue Dove Foundation.

@ TheBlueDoveFoundation

@BlueDoveFoundation

www.TheBlueDoveFoundation.org

MI SHEBERACHS FOR MENTAL HEALTH There are few prayers that resonate with so many people in such a meaningful way as the mi sheberach for healing. On the one hand, it acknowledges there is a G-d, and G-d can enter the course of human history, both hearing our requests and, ultimately, granting them. In a time of need, even the most agnostic—those ordinarily predisposed to critiquing religion and scoffing at the idea passed to them from the generation before about the existence of G-d and the powers of G-d—will find themselves casting aside their postmodernism and, in a fit of hope or rage or helplessness, ask G-d to provide healing. Though timeless, it is also uniquely contemporary. Our advancements in technology, culture, and medicine have given us the illusion of control. And yet, precisely when we are humbled, unable to turn to the tools of our hands for a solution, do we turn to the tools of our faith. The mi sheberach for healing is, at its core, a prayer that articulates “I wish my hands were able to do more, my resources were able to alleviate your pain and suffering, my knowledge able to give you a clear path to healing and recovery. As they are not, rather than finding myself helpless to positively impact the situation, I turn to words of prayer and acts of faith.” It is an acknowledgment of our own limitations: As much as we know, there is so much we do not know; as much as we have accomplished, we are still wildly unprepared to achieve our goal alone. And yet it is more than an act of faith for the faithless, more than an act of humility from the accomplished. For the vast majority of us—those who turn to prayer…sometimes; those who believe in G-d…sometimes; those who are more unsure than sure—it is an offering of hope. We who offer a mi sheberach for healing are not sure if G-d can hear our pleas…but we are hopeful. We who turn to these words are unsure whether G-d can provide healing…but we are hopeful.

Hope is what this prayer has meant throughout time. From the earliest mi sheberach for healing, offered by Moses over Miriam, it is as hopeful and tender and sincere as it is short: El nah, r’fa nah lah; please G-d, heal her, so she may be healed. Generations since have put their own language to these pleas, have allowed circumstance to dictate the terminology, or have offered a mi sheberach for healing that is devoid of any word—that is more a feeling or a guttural cry. In that sense, the texts found in this volume serve as a link in a chain that dates back to our ancestors. Sometimes tender, sometimes traditional, always heartfelt. These prayers, composed from the souls of the authors, speak to our desire—our need—for G-d to assist with our healing. May it come speedily. May it come soon. As we offer: Amen.

THE TRADITIONAL MI SHEBERACH ,‫ ָשׂ ָרה‬,‫ ְויַ ֲﬠקב‬,‫ יִ צְ ָחק‬,‫מּוֹתינוּ ַא ְב ָר ָהם‬ ֵ֫ ‫בותינוּ ְו ִא‬ ֵ ‫ִמי ֶשׁ ֵבּ ַר <ך ֲא‬ < ‫ה ָקּדושׁ ָבּ‬.ַ [Names] ‫הוּא יְ ָב ֵר <ך ֶאת ַהחוֹ ִלים‬, ‫ו ֵל ָאה‬,ְ ‫ר ֵחל‬,ָ ‫ִר ְב ָקה‬ ‫רוּך הוּא‬ ‫להם‬ ָ ‫וּל ַה ֲח‬ ְ ‫יקם‬ ָ ִ‫וּל ַה ֲחז‬ ְ ‫אתם‬ ָ ‫וּל ַר ְפּ‬ ְ ‫ימם‬ ָ ‫יהם ְל ַה ֲח ִל‬ ֶ ‫ ְויִ ְשׁ ַלח‬,‫יותם‬ ֶ ‫יִ ָמ ֵלא ַר ֲח ִמים ָע ָל‬ ‫פוּאת ַהגּוּף ַה ְשׁ ָתּא ַבּ ֲﬠגָ ָלא‬ ַ ‫פוּאת ַהנֶּ ֶפשׁ ְוּר‬ ַ ‫ ְר‬,‫פוּאה ְשׁ ֵל ָמה ִמן ַה ָשּׁ ַמיִ ם‬ ָ ‫ְמ ֵה ָרה ְר‬ :‫נאמר ָא ֵמן‬ ַ ‫ ְו‬.‫וּבזְ ַמן ָק ִריב‬ ִ The Mi Sheberach, English Translation (MyJewishLearning.org) May the One who blessed our ancestors — patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, matriarchs Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah — May the Holy Blessed One overflow with compassion upon him/her, to restore him/her, to heal him/her, to strengthen him/her, to enliven him/her. The One will send him/her, speedily, a complete healing — healing of the soul and healing of the body — along with all the ill, among the people of Israel and all humankind, soon, speedily, without delay, and let us all say: Amen!

The Mi Sheberach, Hebrew Transliteration (MyJewishLearning.org) The transliterated text below presents the prayer with correct pronouns* for male and female patients. The word before the slash is for males; the one after, for females. (MyJewishLearning.org) *Please note: While the Blue Dove Foundation has committed to using the gender-neutral pronoun “they” in our materials, we make an exception for texts used from other sources. Mi sheberach Avoteinu: Avraham, Yitzhak, v’Yaakov, v’Imoteinu: Sarah, Rivka, Rachel v’Leah, hu yivarech virapei et hacholeh/hacholah _____________ ben/bat ______________ HaKadosh baruch hu yimalei rachamim alav/aleha, l’hachalimo/l’hachlimah, u-l’rap’oto/u-l’rap’otah, l’hachaziko/l’hazikah,bless and heal the one who is ill: ________________ son/daughter of ________________ . u-l’chay-oto/u-l’chay-otah. V’yishlach lo/lah bim-hera r’fuah shlemah, r’fu-at hanefesh u-r’fu-at hagoof, b’toch sh’ar cholei Yisrael v’cholei yoshvei tevel, hashta ba’agalah u-vizman kariv, v’no-mar, Amen!

THE BLUE DOVE FOUNDATION’S MI SHEBERACH FOR MENTAL HEALTH May the One who blessed our ancestors and named us Israel bless and heal those among us who struggle with mental well-being. May they acknowledge their own strength and resilience, treat themselves with forgiveness and patience, and find help, compassion, and resources when they need them. And, may the Holy One grant those of us who aren’t experiencing mental health issues the strength, resilience and capacity to listen without judgment and with intention, and the ability to notice when others are struggling. May we create communities that accept, uplift, and support those among us who are struggling. Now, speedily, and in a time soon to come. Amen.

‫ הוּא‬,‫ית ִעם ֱאל ִֹהים‬ ָ ‫בוֹתינוּ ֲא ֶשׁר ָק ָרא ָלנוּ יִ ְשׂ ָר ֵאל ֶשׁנֶּ ֱא ַמר ָשׂ ִר‬ ֵ ‫ִמי ֶשׁ ֵבּ ַר <ך ֲא‬ ‫ יְ ִהי ָרצוֹן ֶשׁיַּ ִכּירוּ‬.‫יְ ָב ֵר <ך ִו ַיר ֵפּא ֶאת ֵאלּוּ ִמ ֵבּינֵ ינוּ ַהנֶּ ֱא ָב ִקים ָבּ ְר ָו ָחה ַהנַּ ְפ ִשׁית‬ ‫ ֶח ְמ ָלה‬,‫ ְויִ ְמצְ אוּ ֶעזְ ָרה‬,‫וּב ַס ְב ָלנוּת‬ ְ ‫יחה‬ ָ ‫ ְויִ ְתיַ ֲחסוּ ְל ַעצְ ָמם ִבּ ְס ִל‬,‫וּב ָח ְסנָ ם‬ ְ ‫כוֹחם‬ ָ ‫ְבּ‬ < ‫חוֹוים‬ ִ ‫ ַה ָקּדוֹשׁ ָבּרוּך הוּא יַ ֲﬠנִ יק ָל ֵאלּוּ ֵמ ִא ָתּנוּ ֶשׁ ֵאינָ ם‬.‫וּמ ְשׁ ַא ִבּים ְבּ ֵעת צָ ָר ָתם‬ ַ < ‫וּמ‬ ‫ ְו ֶאת‬,‫תּוֹך ַכּ ָוּנָ ה‬ ִ ‫ ַהח ֶֹסן ְו ַהיְּ כ ֶֹלת ְל ַה ְק ִשׁיב ְלל ֹא ִשׁפּוּט‬,‫ְק ָשיִּ ם נַ ְפ ִשׁיּם ֶאת ַהכּ ַֹח‬ ,‫ך ֶשׁנִּ צּוֹר ְק ִהלּוֹת ֶשׁ ְמּ ַק ְבּלוֹת‬W ְ‫ יְ ִהי ְרצוֹנ‬.‫ַהיְּ כ ֶֹלת ְל ַה ְב ִחין ַכּ ֲא ֶשׁר ֲא ֵח ִרים נֶ ֱא ָב ִקים‬ .‫וּבזְ ַמן ָק ִריב‬ ִ ‫ ַה ְשׁ ָתּא ַבּ ֲﬠגָ ָלא‬.‫תוֹמכוֹת ְבּ ֵא ֶלּה ֶשׁ ֵבּינֵ ינוּ ַהנֶּ ֱא ָב ִקים‬ ְ ‫רוֹממוֹת ְו‬ ְ ‫ֵמ‬ ‫ֹאמר ָא ֵמן‬ ַ ‫וְ נ‬

MI SHEBERACHS FOR ANXIETY AND STRESS We all experience anxiety. Worry, nervousness, and fear are normal parts of the human experience. Typically, the anxiety we feel in stressful situations is not incapacitating and passes once the situation is resolved. But if it becomes unmanageable, disproportionate to the situation, or persistent after the source of the anxiety is removed, it could indicate a mental health condition. An anxiety disorder is measured by the impact it has on an individual’s life. When anxiety starts to interfere with daily activities like work, school, and relationships, it is considered a disorder. This section is for those who are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, or are struggling with an anxiety disorder.

For Those Feeling Hopeless by Anonymous May those with anxieties that lead to feelings of hopelessness see the light at the end of the tunnel. May they find a community that supports their mental, physical, and emotional stability and strength. May they find a passion that takes them on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Amen.

For Those Who Feel Overwhelmed by Jeremy & Aliza May the One who blessed our ancestors, patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, matriarchs Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah, bring peace upon the one who is overwhelmed: _______ child of ______. May the Holy Blessed One overflow with compassion upon them... to calm them, to comfort them, to strengthen them, to encourage them, to help them make order of the chaos in their lives, to give them the wherewithal to accept imperfection, and to guide them beyond this moment. The One will send them, speedily, complete peace, peace of the soul and calmness of the body, along with all the overwhelmed among the people of Israel and all humankind, soon, speedily, without delay.

For Living Life to the Fullest by Elianna, Judy & Noah May those who are feeling stressed and overwhelmed find peace within themselves through the good and the bad. May they surround themselves with those who will help them through the ups and the downs of life. May they grow from any negativity to be the best person they can be and live their life to the fullest, with nothing holding them back.

For Those Who Struggle with Anxiety by Eve & Harrison Bless and heal the one who struggles. May they find the strength to be comfortable with situations that make them anxious. May they continuously strive for courage and confidence. The One will help to continuously support the healing of the mind and soul. May they remember how brave they are.

For Those with Anxiety by Morgan & Shari For those who are faced with the unknown, may you ground yourself and find comfort within your Kehilah Kedosha. May you discover your bravery, unearth your patience, and feel the security of the One. May you know your inner strength has the ability to overpower your fear and anxiety, and will uplift you in times of hardship.

For Anxiety by Anonymous May you be granted patience for self and the ability to overcome and accept. To feel whole and excited for life. May you be able to embrace life and find more moments of joy in things large and small. May you realize situations are temporary, and things will be okay.

For Those Struggling with Anxiety by Sabrina & Brynn May you have an outlet for expression and a support system. May you not be so focused on overthinking but instead on finding ways to relax yourself. May you accept this is who you were meant to be, and know this is a part of yourself. May you try to find a positive in every negative situation. May you take what you have learned now and improve yourself.

For Anxiety Entering a New Environment by Jessica & Hannah We pray those who struggle in a new environment find others feeling similar ways. Know that many people feel the same way at one time or another. We pray those who worry will find people they connect with. Know that your new environment will turn into a welcoming community.

For Anxiety by Austin, Jonah & Brian May the One who blessed our ancestors, patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, matriarchs Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah, bless and heal those with anxiety. May they be surrounded by those who make them feel comfortable. Support them and love them. Give them the strength to express how they feel and go against negative thoughts, knowing others care about them, providing them with knowledge to know others are in the same situation. May they express these feelings of a community and belonging.

For Those with Social Anxiety by Sam & Pete May those who struggle with social anxiety feel welcome and embraced. May those who struggle with social anxiety find their tribe. May those who struggle with social anxiety feel supported by our community. May those who struggle with social anxiety find their voice. May those who struggle with social anxiety feel important and validated. May those who struggle with social anxiety find kindred spirits. May those who struggle with social anxiety feel free of stereotypes. May those who struggle with social anxiety find an open ear. May those who struggle with social anxiety feel their uniqueness adds to our space.

MI SHEBERACHS FOR DEPRESSION, LONELINESS, AND ISOLATION The leading mental health disability globally, depression is a serious medical illness that can affect feelings, thoughts, and actions in a negative way. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person’s ability to function at work and at home. This section is for those who are struggling with depression or feeling particularly sad or lonely. For Those Living with Grief by Nancy To the One who blessed our ancestors and the One who blesses all beings here on this Earth, bless all those who are suffering the grief of someone they loved. May they find solace in their memory, and may their love find a resting place in their hearts. Bless all those who are struggling with the death of someone with whom they had a difficult relationship. May they find compassion for themselves and renewal of spirit. May they have patience and strength, as grief can come in waves throughout their lives. May they find the courage to share their grief with others, no matter how many years have gone by. While they can be shattered by loss, they can be healed by love from others. Sacred one, help them find ways to open their hearts to love and hope. Bless all those who are grieving, for it is an honor to have lived. Make both life and death a blessing.

For Those Who Struggle with Depression by Shoshana & Alyssa Bless them and help them to recognize that they are not alone. Help them to find a community in which they can find support. Help them to heal in a way that is unique to them. Help them to utilize past experiences as a symbol of their resilience.

For Those Struggling with Depression by Amanda, Anna & Carly May you find community with people in whom you can find solace and support as well as those who are sharing your struggles. May you find something, no matter how small, to look forward to each and every day, and may you find happiness in little accomplishments and big milestones.

For This Deep Depression by Anonymous Help me to see that in the deepest depression, there are those to be thankful for. Help me to understand my anger is justified while acting with compassion toward those around me. Help me to see how I am hurting myself, so I can reach out to those I am thankful for and ask for their understanding. Until I feel whole again, let me ride the wave of depression without drowning, so I can become better than I was before my struggle.

For People Struggling with Depression or Anxiety by Sydney, Sophie, Erin, Alyssa & Madison May you realize you are stronger than you know. May you find people who will be there for you and support you when you need it most. May you find those who will accept you for all of you, for better or for worse. May you find a safe space and unconditional calm in your mind and heart. May you keep hoping things will get better. May you take time to step back and work on yourself. May you make the right decisions for yourself, not for others or for the person you think people want you to be. May you remember you are worthy of love and are a loved human being. May you find love in yourself and not look for love in others. Good things will come to you, and what you deserve will come to you.

For Those Who Feel Alone by Anonymous May you recognize your support system surrounding you. May you reach out to those you know care, and may those who care know to reach out. May the loneliness you feel pass quickly. May you find solace in the universal lonely feelings. May you acknowledge that feelings of loneliness are merely temporary, and may you find the ability to push through the obstacles.

For Those Experiencing Loneliness by Anonymous May you find the inner strength to persevere and take comfort in your own company. Know you are in your loved ones’ thoughts and hearts, even if you are not together physically. Recognize you are not alone in your loneliness. People and connections are not as distant as they may seem. Praying for the day when we are all reunited in community, together, when hugs are plentiful, when the power of touch to connect returns.

For Those in Solitude by Shmuel & Tiffany May they find strength within themself to continue: to continue to see the positive blessings in their life, to learn to enjoy their own company, and to find light in the darkness. May they be reminded that they are enough and to not judge themselves too harshly. They should be comforted together with all people who are unwell in the Jewish nation and in all humankind.

For Loneliness by Joey & Natalie May you find the inner strength to ask for help. May you take advantage of resources to connect with community. May you find comfort being with and getting to know yourself. May you find support and people you can trust and talk to. May you find appreciation for the wonders of the universe and recognize that our world is interconnected. May you recognize that all human beings experience feelings of isolation. May you find comfort in that your feelings are valid. You are not alone.

For Those Stuck in the Darkness by Ethan & Josh May those who see darkness find the light. May those who feel alone find a welcomed space. Bless the world as we unite in one community. May those who feel alone find a place in this community. May those who meet others find strength in unity. May those who feel alone know they are loved.

MI SHEBERACHS FOR SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ADDICTIVE DISORDERS, AND RECOVERY Addiction is a complex disease that affects the functioning of the brain and body. It involves craving something intensely, losing control over its use, and continuing involvement with it despite adverse consequences. Recovery from addiction is very challenging, but it is possible. Common addictions include substance abuse disorders, feeding and eating disorders, and process addictions, e.g., technology, sex, gambling, and nonsuicidal self-injury disorder (AKA self-harm). This section is for those battling various addictions, those in recovery from an addiction, and the people who care about them. For Those Suffering from Eating Disorders by Lucie May the One bestow compassion and acceptance for all people to restore their health and repair their bodies, to heal body, mind, and soul, so they can rebuild their lives and re-create their self-perception, to allow themselves to rest, so they may be strengthened and resilient to cope with life without feeling the desire to take it out on their bodies, to gain insight into the perfect storm of what caused their eating disorder, allowing them to heal in mind, body, and soul. May the One help them validate themselves and realize self-worth is within them and has nothing to do with a number or a size, so they can live life freely and have a renewed passion for showing up as themselves. May the One send them hope that full recovery is possible and the understanding that healing is not linear and provide patience with themselves and perseverance to keep going.

For Those Living with Addiction by DBR May you be granted the strength to regain the ability to bound the beast. May you be granted the wisdom to love and care for yourself in health and good choices. May you find the path to rebuild your life. May you find forgiveness for your weaknesses and embrace yourself in self-compassion and love. For Those Struggling with Self-Harm by Shoshana May we be able to acknowledge the incredible pain we are in and treat ourselves with compassion. May we try our best to remember the pain will pass, the pain is not our fault, and we don't need to be punished or to harm ourselves in order to feel. May we remember we deserve relief from pain in ways that don't harm our minds and bodies. May we learn healthier ways to restore our sense of safety and be supported in enacting them. May we find the strength to reach out for help, and find those willing and able help us in this endeavor. May we remember there is nothing shameful about us or our experiences.

For Children Struggling with a Parent’s Addiction by Ellen & Joyce May children who are in homes with challenges and addiction find support and strength in their world outside of the home. May they find connection, so they don’t have to hide or feel alone. May they have constant help and opportunity as they grow into adults.

For Those Dealing with Addiction by Anonymous May you recognize your own validity, your own self-worth. May you recognize human limitations. We are all created in G-d’s image. May you feel forgiveness and compassion from others and yourself. For Those in Recovery by Anonymous G-d, there are those among us who struggle with addiction. We offer this special prayer to them: May G-d bless you with the courage to conquer your cravings and the strength to stay far from temptations and from people who can lead you astray. May G-d hear the cry of your soul and bless you with the knowledge that you have the power to remake your life, to repair what has been destroyed, to recover what has been lost, to receive all the blessings that have been ignored. When you fall into despair, may G-d bless you with hope. If you stray from the path of recovery, may G-d show you how to begin again. May G-d renew your faith in yourself. May G-d open your eyes to all the miracles that surround you. Bless all those who are living in recovery. G-d, lead them on the path back to life, back to love, and back to you. 31

MI SHEBERACHS FOR SUICIDE Suicide is a complex issue and should not be attributed to a single cause. Not everyone who dies by suicide has been diagnosed with a mental illness, and not all people with a mental illness seek to end their lives by suicide Suicide is death caused by injuring oneself with the intent to die. People considering suicide typically feel an overwhelming, never-ending (or continuous) sense of hopelessness, helplessness, and despair. They believe suicide is the only way to stop the suffering. Many factors can contribute to someone’s decision to end their life—loss, trauma, addiction, serious illness, or other life events that feel overwhelming. Remember, it is the experience of the events (not necessarily the events themselves) that contribute to a person feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope. Suicide and suicide attempts are not the same as what we often call selfharm, which falls under process addictions and is included in the previous section. Self-harm or nonsuicidal self-injury disorder (NSSID) refers to hurting oneself on purpose as a way to release painful emotions, distract from emotional pain with physical pain, express self-hatred or low selfesteem, punish oneself for perceived wrongs, or regain a sense of control. Self-harm is not a suicide attempt but rather a sign that the individual is trying to cope with intense emotions. This behavior often becomes addictive, and many people who have overcome self-harm consider themselves in recovery. This section is for those who experience suicidal thoughts or who mourn the loss of someone who died by suicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing a suicidal crisis, please call the National Suicide Lifeline at 800-273-8255, available 24/7 to provide local resources and support.

For Those Contemplating Suicide by Anonymous May the One who blessed our ancestors, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel and Leah, be with us in our struggles. As you blessed Jacob three times, be with us in our struggles. May our wrestling be transformative in our struggles. Give us patience, courage, endurance, and insight. May the sufferer be healed in spirit and in body. May G-d be with us. We pray for meaning in the length of our days.

For Those Struggling with Suicidal Thoughts by Lisa May you know better days are ahead and stay with us. May you know taking your own life is not the only path to healing. May you never be so low you make an irreversible decision. May you find courage to reach out and cry for help so you don’t suffer alone. May your deep pain and suffering turn to harmony and tranquility as your health improves. May you live to celebrate many milestones in peace surrounded by those who love you. May the prayers of all who care about you bring you healing, happiness, and blessings—refuah, simcha and bracha.

For Those Who Have Lost a Loved One by Devin May the Source of Strength, who blesses all, bless all who grieve and mourn. May those who have lost a loved one to suicide find compassion and support from friends and loved ones who seek to connect genuinely. May they be met without expectations for sharing their stories or for speaking before they are ready. May they find care from those who have “been there,” so they do not have to cope alone or learn to do so on their own. And may they know when to ask for help or to receive the help of friends and loved ones. May the Source of Wisdom, who blesses all, bless friends and loved ones of those mourning a loss. May those who have the opportunity to provide compassion and support do so with love and genuine intention. May they find ways to connect with their friend or loved one in mourning on important dates like birthdays, holidays, and other anniversaries. And may they know when to reach out with help or to provide care for their friend or loved one.

For Those Surviving the Loss of a Loved One to Suicide by Jennifer May He who provides light shine down on you. May you understand this is not your fault, and nothing you could have done would have changed what happened. May you find solace in that your true love is no longer suffering from the sickness of depression and anxiety. May you accept love and help from your family, friends, and community. May you find the strength to seek assistance for your own mental well-being. May the feelings of emptiness give way to comfort in the sweet reminders of their presence in your life. They are never really gone. May you find the light that shines within you, that it may lead you to continue your life with purpose, hope, and happiness.

MI SHEBERACHS FOR HEALING AND STRENGTH Judaism has a long tradition of recognizing that healing is not just physical; it is holistic, which is to say it has physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual components that are all interconnected. When we recite the mi sheberach for healing, we pray for refuat hanefesh v'refuat haguf, a healing of spirit and of body. Many wise people in our tradition have long understood our spirit to encompass our emotional as well as our spiritual well-being. Such a time-honored tradition has prepared us well to inherit this value and put it into practice. With our resources and greater understanding today, our twenty-first-century Jewish communities can interpret and expand how we pray for refuat hanefesh v'refuat haguf. The Jewish tradition also emphasizes healing rather than curing. Even when mental illness is under control, healing and a return to wholeness are in order. We see healing as a process that has many components and may be a lifelong journey. This section consists of several mi sheberachs for overall healing, strength, and well-being. For Inner Strength by Gabi, Charlotte & Aric May the One who is struggling to understand their own strength find their own path with the help of the world around them. And may they never be afraid to ask for help or share their burden with others. May they understand that strength isn’t in solitude but in reaching out when you cannot cope alone.

For Strength and Healing by Anonymous May we know part of our journey involves struggling, and throughout time Judaism has seen struggling as a holy endeavor. May we understand it is through community and openness that we find a way out of our mitzrayim. There is no shame in the path to wellness and freedom. We ask for the strength to reach out for help and the strength to respond with empathy and compassion. May we remember that each of us is created b’tzelom Elohim—in G-d’s image—and is both unique and divine. May we remember refuah shleimah—healing of body, mind, and spirit—is an ongoing and lengthy process, and may we have continued patience with ourselves and those we love. May we know tikkun olam and tikkun hanefesh are both integral parts of making the world and ourselves whole For Inner Strength by Elisheva, Kayla & Liora For those whose feelings need to be heard, may you have people around you who have the capacity to listen to you, and may you have your own personal inner strength to be able to find/accept the help you need. For Those Struggling by Gala & Hope We wish for continuous support throughout your struggles. We wish for appropriate resources throughout your struggles. We wish for patience throughout your struggles and during your recovery.

For Finding Light by Hannah & Julia May the one who fears illness find peace in good health and listen to the needs of their body before assuming the worst. May they take the time to practice gratitude and see the joys in the world around them. Grant us the strength to find spots of sun shining through the clouds, reminding us there is light even on our darkest days. And may we remember the world works with us, not against us. For Growth by Anonymous May the One who blessed our ancestors bless us with: the ability to listen without judgment and to be present; the strength to be well and to practice wellness; an ability to share with others in the community and to live in values and principles to recognize our own strengths, to see vulnerability as a strength, to know oneself and to continue to question what is known, to accept from others gifts of sustenance, and to acknowledge limits and embrace the knowledge that growth is boundless, being open to finding a place to celebrate and be celebrated.

For Courage by Matthew & Lucie May the One who feels uncertain about upcoming changes find the strength to face each day knowing it can change and find the courage to keep going and overflow with compassion for themselves. May they discover the power of their own resilience and let it strengthen them. May the One send them healing of the soul and give them the knowledge that peace is within them. For Those Struggling or Seeing Others in Distress by Anonymous May you find the courage to accept help even in the depths of despair. May you find the courage to offer help, taking that first step not knowing where it will lead. May your life be filled with blessings of love, light, health, and happiness. Bless you with the members of your family, and may you be strong and resilient with courage in your recovery.

For Opportunity by Elana & Noa G-d and G-d of our ancestors who left their homes in search of growth and opportunity: Grant us the capacity to judge ourselves with forgiveness and patience, to see the future as Joshua and Caleb did, one of opportunity and possibility. Allow us the acknowledgment of our fears and longings for comfort and home, but grant us the knowledge that our yearnings are temporary.

For Silver Linings by Anonymous Oh Holy One, help us to find… light during a time of darkness, hope during a time of cynicism and pessimism, virtual closeness during a time of physical distance, faith during a time of despair, hope when feeling hopeless, relational strength during a time of polarization, respect for the other amidst divisiveness and disagreement. Enable us to heal, even if we cannot be whole. May we take comfort in the process of healing, not necessarily the expectation of complete health.

For Peace, Support, and Healing by Anonymous May the One who blessed our ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah, bless in health those who are engaged in the holy work of healing your world: For our caretakers, please bring peace, support, and healing. For our healers, please bring peace, support, and healing. For our family, please bring peace, support, and healing. For those suffering, please bring peace, support, and healing. For ourselves, please bring peace, support, and healing. For all who need, please bring peace, support, and healing.

For Women and Healing by Anonymous May the One who blessed our ancestors bless and heal us, restore us, strengthen us, and give us renewed life. May we have the words and the courage to ask for what we need. May it come to us even if we don’t or can’t ask. May we be blessed with complete and speedy healing of spirit and body. May we be blessed with self-compassion, and may we receive the compassion of others.

For Healing by Sophie & Nora May the slowness of your breath calm the fast thoughts in your mind. May the shoulders of your community be your pillow to lean and rest on. May your footsteps on the earth ground you to the center of your heart.

For a Happier World by Samantha & Eyal We hope the world becomes a happier place, where all our stressors will disappear, calming down our souls and our bodies, relieving us of any stress or pressure. We hope our communities provide us safety and care, and a place where we can thrive.

For Those Embarrassed About Their Mental Health by Anonymous Let those who are embarrassed about their mental health feel the courage to speak out and get help. Let mental health receive the same importance as physical health. Heal individuals who have trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger. Give them help, healing, and strength. If one can connect to nature and the world outside themselves and realize everyone is connected to everyone else and everything else, it can be a way to lighten your own load and bring a sense of togetherness and a sense of less isolation. May G-d bring healing, peace, and wholeness to our bodies, minds, and spirits.

For Repaired Connection by Anonymous May you forgive yourself for taking the space you need. May you have empathy for those who are making decisions you do not understand. May you find the strength to trust your own decisions and the compassion to accept them. May you re-engage with ease and without struggle. May you welcome others with open arms whenever they choose to return to you. May you find your community and loved ones have always been there, even if they have not been omnipresent. May you cultivate equanimity.

For Those Experiencing Conflict by Jesse & Manor May the One who blessed our ancestors bless this new generation of Jews and their connection to each other, which redefines them at each turn. May the One bless and heal those within our community who are experiencing anger and strife that arise from competition. May they be guided by clarity to better actualize positive influences in their lives to counter negative ones. May they be blessed with the compassion and strength to resolve their conflicts without harmful words or persecutions. May they learn the maturity and responsibility to understand the gravity of their actions and learn to heal with one another. May they be empowered by good surroundings and improve each situation they are involved in. For Mental, Financial, and Physical Well-being by David & Benji Mi sheberach for those who have put others before themselves; may they understand our appreciation for their efforts in creating a better world. Mi sheberach for those who have struggled mentally; may they find peace and healing in both body and mind. Mi sheberach for those who have struggled financially; may they live a future free of financial problems. Mi sheberach for those who have struggled physically; may they find different practices and opportunities to improve their well-being.

For Struggling Teens by Anonymous May all of our teens who struggle with depression, suicidal ideation, or any mental health struggle find the support, resources, and connection that bring them back to a place of wholeness in their souls. May they find the attributes of courage, perseverance, and vulnerability to find hope in the dark places on their journeys. And may they experience love and compassion from those around them. With these tools, may they see the larger perspective that hope for a better tomorrow springs eternal. For Children Going out into the World by Anonymous May you heal from the pains of your past. May you step into your new life with renewed strength and courage. May you find a community that offers you safety and refuge. May you grow and become your fullest self. May you find meaning and purpose in your life. May you find peace.

PRAYERS OF SELF-AFFIRMATIONS AND LOVE Self-esteem is how someone values and perceives themself. It can affect a person’s ability to make decisions, assert needs, move past mistakes without unfair self-blame, practice self-kindness, and try new or difficult things. When one has low self-esteem, they may place little value on their own opinions and ideas. Instead of feeling secure, they focus on their perceived weaknesses and fear of failure, and they believe others are more capable or successful than they are. Low self-esteem can manifest itself in traits such as indecision, hypersensitivity to criticism, negative outlook, and guilt. People with low self-esteem tend to exaggerate events as being negative. They may interpret neutral comments as criticism. Over time, this could lead to some degree of depression and/or anxiety. In talking with someone who exhibits these kinds of tendencies, it would be useful to understand how they are negatively affecting the person’s life. This section is for those who are struggling to love or find peace within themselves. You are worthy of love and acceptance. You are not a burden.

For Possibilities by Julie May you embrace the essential truth that in life, everything is possible. Brokenness is possible, healing is possible, forgiveness is possible, wholeness is possible. Everything is possible within ourselves and among each other.

For Ourselves by Eva & Shirley May we be kind to ourselves. May we accept that everything is not the same. May we share that everything is hard. May we not be ashamed of how we are feeling right now. May we recognize our productivity is not the same as it used to be. May we remember the power of rest and keeping healthy boundaries. May we be inspired by the love and generosity of others. May we learn to find joy in the smallest moments.

For Those Who Struggle with Self-Worth by Hannah & Julia May you find comfort in the community of which you are a part. May we remember we are created in G-d’s image, and you are made as you were meant to be. We are each equally as worthy of happiness and fulfillment as our neighbor. Do not be afraid to share your burdens, as it is the responsibility of the community to lift and strengthen one another.

For Self-Love and Confidence by Anonymous May you have gratitude for the beautiful body G-d gave you. May you constantly remember your worth. May you take time to care for your body. May you realize your ability to overcome anything you put your mind to. May you understand how worthy of love you are. May you admire your beauty and strength. May you realize your potential to do amazing things. May you never forget you are an embodiment of love and light. May you have faith in yourself and honor your individuality.

For People Struggling with Bias by Anonymous For those who struggle with bias, may you realize your struggles are real, and nobody can tell you otherwise. May you realize you are not alone, and many people are struggling with you. May you understand bias is something taught and something that can be untaught. May you realize people who are biased will accept you one day.

For Anyone Struggling with Self-Image by Hannah, Jordan & Sarah May those who are struggling with having a positive self-image gain confidence in themselves. May you start finding comfort within your own skin. May you learn to love yourself and everything that makes you unique. May you become the best version of yourself that you can be. May you believe you are worthy of the best the world has to offer.

For Those Lacking Confidence by Anonymous May you accept that you are beautiful inside and out. May you accept that you are worthy. May you accept that you are unique. May you accept that you bring something to the table. May you love the person you’ve become. For Those Who Feel Different by Rachel, Orli & Micaela For those who feel different, may you learn to love yourself and realize your differences are not faults. May you know your differences are what make you powerful. May you be surrounded by those who love you. May you gain the strength to ask for help. May you learn you will find your place and find your people. May you learn everyone is unique and comes together to form a whole. May you learn that loving yourself is going to make you feel free. May you know you are strong. May you know you are worth it.

For Honoring Full Acceptance by Anonymous May we recognize ourselves entirely. May we shine a light and invite our shadows and dark places. May we seek and welcome what we have hidden. May we discover the strength within that comes from honoring our full acceptance.

For Those Who Are Struggling with Stigma by Anonymous May you understand your feelings, experiences, and identities are valid. May you find confidence in who you are. May you find support and people you can trust and talk to. May you be able to see past that stigma and surround yourself with people who love and support you.

Judgment by Eve, Elizabeth & Karen May you develop the ability to treat yourself with kindness instead of judgment. May we acknowledge that each of us has our own threshold for pain and not judge anyone for needing our support.

A Prayer for You by Beth, Jason & Guy In a world where social media is constantly at our fingertips, we remind you that you are enough. You, being an imperfect human being, are enough. May you find the strength within our online community to live authentically as the human you are offline and without hiding behind social media.

A Prayer for Boundaries by Emily & Steph May you accept you are enough. May you know when to say “enough.” “Dayenu” May you know your boundaries and be able to enforce them lovingly. May you be able and empowered to say no. May you accept and be joyful about your boundaries. May you be free from worrying about other people’s perceptions. May you accept and embrace your limits. May you be free from feeling guilty. May you forgive yourself when you do too much and be gentle with yourself. May you celebrate what you are able to do and recognize what you have accomplished and achieved. May you recognize and celebrate others’ boundaries and respect that they may be very different from your own.

For Those Who Feel Guilt by Anonymous May you accept that you are always doing your best in the moment. May you shift to compassion for others and yourself. May you accept responsibility but not blame. May doing differently next time be more important than reliving the last time. May you rise and be resilient and embrace imperfection in others and yourself.

For Those Struggling with Embarrassment about Mental Health by Anonymous Wish for the power to bring out each other’s inner strengths by forming connections. May you recognize your own strength and amplify it by reaching out to others, remembering where you came from to help ground yourself, taking calm moments to find the beauty in the world around you and remembering you are a part of it. Asking for help takes strength, not weakness, and it is so important to use your strength when you need to ask for help.

For Those Who Lack Patience by Anonymous May you learn to love yourself. May you pause, breathe gently, and be gentle with yourself and with others, maybe nibble on some chocolate or drink some tea. Breathe. Let the frustration and anxiety fall away, the wisdom and inner strength rise up in its place.

For Those Searching for Joy and Love by Saul & Cantor Linda Bless all those who are burdened with not having resources to be able to fulfill their essential needs and lift their worries. Let them find those who will care for and about them with love/chesed. May the One who blesses enable all people to feel joy and wonder, and be free from worry. May we be blessed with a calm mind and a joyous heart.

For Those Struggling With Work Burnout by Anonymous May you set clear boundaries with your supervisor at work. May you take time for yourself and the things you love. May you use your vacation time to its fullest extent. May you separate your work life and home life. May you find the time to get a real lunch break. May you remember to celebrate your accomplishments. May you remember you can’t do your best if you aren’t taking care of yourself.

For Those Struggling to Ask for Help by Anonymous May you surround yourself with those who are trustworthy and willing to support you. May seeking help be a shameless pursuit. May you come to realize help can be found in the loneliest of times if only one musters the courage to ask.

Prayer for Those Suffering from Burnout by Jessie & Julie May you make yourself a priority. May you take time for yourself. May you find a supportive community. May you connect with others in a meaningful way. May you speak up for yourself when you need help. May you find the space and peace to heal. May you tap into your energetic self. May you find ease and breath.

For Those Who Are Going through the Motions by Anonymous May you recognize that life isn’t supposed to be routine. May you have the strength to reach out to those around you. May you find ways to make every day a little more fun. May you gain the motivation to do what you love. May you be true to yourself. May you find the courage to stand out. And may you be the person who says “I will.”

A Prayer for Separation in Space and Time by Anonymous As we do after Shabbat, make space for Havdalah—separation. May you let go of the work. May you find (even small) opportunities for separation. May you stick to your rituals. May you hold to boundaries. May you see the strength and bravery of your vulnerability. May we build healing practice in community. May you find Shabbat in little moments throughout the week. May we be explicit about our needs, advocate for our needs, take the rest you need.

MI SHEBERACHS ASKING FOR COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND ACCEPTANCE Middot, or Jewish values, help build the foundation on which the Jewish community stands. We believe they empower us to connect Jewish thought to mental wellness. Jewish literature and discussion have focused on healing, wellness, and community for years, yet we often shroud mental health in a cone of silence. One of our eight mental health middot relates to supporting community. ‫ כל ישראל ערבים זה לזה‬- Kol Yisrael arevim zeh la zeh - All Jews are responsible for one another The Talmud (Shavuot 39a) teaches that members of the Jewish community are responsible for each other. In simple terms, we are interconnected and must be invested in the mental wellness and overall well-being of everyone. We must be willing, informed, and prepared to help one another, because we all benefit.

For Strength by Zach & Tally May the One who blessed our ancestors strengthen, heal, and restore those who are struggling with mental health and give them the support of their community. May the One give them the strength to cope in difficult situations.

For Creating a Loving Community by Anonymous For those we know and those whose names we don’t know, let us as a community share a space for allowing people to be ready to be accepted. May we establish a community agreement that others’ stories are not ours to share. May we support each other’s courage to share, respecting that it is the individual’s story to share. May those who suffer in isolation find acceptance and know they are not alone. May we find the courage it takes to come forward and share as we put ourselves out there for our community. As a community, may we welcome the individual and find one another to give each other space to listen and learn from each other’s experiences without judgment, so when we come out of places of isolation, we are open to hearing. And may we understand mental illness is just as real as any other kind of illness.

For All Leaders by Anonymous Give them strength when they feel weak. Let them listen to the people they lead. Give them comfort when they feel uneasy. Let them be confident in their abilities. Give them support when they need to support others. Let them feel supported. Let them heal, so they can heal others.

For Renewal of Connection by Anonymous May the source of blessing and healing grant us abundant compassion. Help us to feel gratitude for that which still connects us... Help us to remember we are not alone...and help us to find the words to cry out when that feeling overwhelms us. Help us to remember we all share the water...even if not the same vessel. Help us to hear the cries of those near and far, even when they are whispers. Help us to create a community that embraces us all...on our best and worst days...and the days that are also “fine.” Sustain us with resilience, and grant us patience in this fragmented space until we are blessed with renewed strength and compassion, physical reconnection.

For Those Yearning for Community Connection by Anonymous May we have the strength to see the blessings in each day. For those who are struggling and feeling disconnected, you are an important part of our Jewish community, and we welcome you. We value you as an important member. Our community is a safe place for each of you. We bless our congregation for opening our hearts to all who are struggling as we say a prayer for healing for one another.

For Sharing a Burden with a Friend by Erica & Hannah For those who need support, may you find the resources necessary to calm your internal struggles and surround yourself with a community of people who will lift your spirits. May you embrace the value of nosei b’ol im chaveiro (sharing a burden with one’s friend) and find strength in your close friendships to overcome your struggles together.

For a Celebrated Connection by Anonymous May we all celebrate our connection through Judaism and treat each other as family. Let us love and support each other in all of life's experiences, good and bad. May we all focus on healing the world through loving-kindness and each other. May we be patient with others and ourselves, and focus on being the best version of ourselves.

For Caregivers by Ciara & Ben Mi sheberach to everyone who is helping others with their mental health, listening before responding. Mi sheberach for those who care for others in need of healing through mental, emotional, spiritual, and social struggles. Mi sheberach to any person trying to make the world a better place for all, one step at a time.

For Children with Mental Illness by Maddie & Morgan May the one who blessed our ancestors, bless and heal the kids who struggle with mental illness. May they be blessed with a strong support system. May they be blessed with the kindness to look out for each other. May they learn acceptance of their differences, so they can use their differences to build a stronger community. May the one who blessed our ancestors bless and heal the community that is dealing with the loss of important community members. May they be blessed with their memories. May they be blessed with love for themselves and those around them. May they find comfort in the strong community that exists and in sharing their love with one another.

For Those Who Need Support by Anonymous May you surround yourself with people who love and support you. May you find a loving and supporting community. May you realize you are not alone. May you understand it is okay to ask for help. These feelings won’t last forever.

For the One Who Wants to Listen by Ilana, Alex & Sarah May I be blessed with the spaciousness in my soul to be able to hold the tension of another’s pain and acknowledge the honest desire to fix what appears to be broken. May I wholeheartedly listen from a place of wholeness and help to make space for others to speak their truth. May I know that this is enough. Dayenu. May I remember this when I need it most.

For Opening Our Hearts and Minds to Different Perspectives by Anonymous May we open our eyes to accept all differences. May we see the spark within every individual. May we model and live empathy. May we support and encourage friends and family. Baruch ata Hashem, pokeach ivrim.

For Those Who Are Struggling Silently by Taylor, Gabriel, Hailey & Liv For those who are struggling silently: May you realize your struggles are valid and important. May you realize your struggles are a part of the journey and only make you stronger in the end. May you only talk about your struggles on your own terms. May you realize you are the only one who truly knows your own struggles. May you accept that healing is easier with the support of your community.

For Inclusivity—For Those Who Have Space in Their Heart to Grow by Anonymous May you take time to branch out and get to know people around you. May you reach out to the people who could benefit from companionship. May you expand your love toward others. May you use this to start your journey to grow. As we grow, b’yachad, we offer an open mind and open heart. And empower you with passion.

For Inclusivity by Anonymous May you treat everyone the same no matter their gender, race, or sexuality. May you find someone to share your feelings with. May you find inclusive spaces or create them. May you treat yourself and others with kindness. May you raise awareness about mental health. May you know you are valid and beautiful.

For People Struggling for Acceptance by Rachel & Lisa May those who are struggling to be accepted find support. May you find compassion in your heart for others. May you find neutral ground with those of differing opinions. Although we all are different, we all want to be accepted and valued.

For the One Struggling to Connect by Anonymous For the one struggling with how to connect, for whom prayer may not be a vessel for comfort, may you be able to find community, strength, and support in ways that are personally, spiritually, mentally, or physically uplifting. May you feel validation and comfort in your practice, in your connections, and in your traditions in a way that uplifts your spirit and emotional well-being. And may you be surrounded by others who see you, hear you, validate you, and support you.

For Those Who Are Lost by Matt & Kevin May those who are in search of their community find it. May their time feeling lost transform into a sense of feeling found. May their passions be recognized and appreciated.

For Those with Special Need by Max, Noa & Nick May the One who blessed our ancestors, patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, matriarchs Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah bless and heal those in need. May people with special needs find the equity they deserve within our society. May they be surrounded by compassionate and loving people. May those without special needs let go of all stigma they may hold.

For the Comfort to Express Oneself Freely by Jake & Drew May those who want to express themselves feel included in our community. May they feel confident and empowered to be proudly Jewish. May they strive to improve themselves and others around them. May they find friends who will stand by them in happy and sad times. May they find reprieve from their everyday struggles at least temporarily. May they feel like they can be truly who they are. May they win in our tournaments and find supreme glory.

For Those Searching for Hope and Connection by Daria & Jessie May you know you are not alone, even when it may feel like you are. May you continue to find new ways to connect with others and yourself. May you work to fight hopelessness for yourself and others. May you recognize and celebrate the strength and light you already possess. May you recognize that others are searching for connection too. May you find the power to be the one to reach out. May you have the patience and calm to persevere.

For Those Who Are Overworked by Lili & Hannah May you feel power and healing in learning to say no, in respecting your boundaries, and in letting yourself rest. May you learn everything need not be done by you. May you learn to accept help and to take care of yourself first. May you understand you are enough as is, your value is not in what you can do for others, and it is okay to let others carry the burden.

For Feeling Stuck in a Bubble by Anonymous May you not feel trapped or alone. May you reach out to those who surround you. May you take time to contact the outside world. May you find new friends when you least expect it. May you not be afraid to ask for a listening ear. May you find new opportunities and experiences when you least expect it.

MI SHEBERACHS FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH MENTAL ILLNESS AND STRUGGLING CHILDREN It is really hard for a parent/guardian to see their child in pain. There are no fast and easy solutions. Mental health issues cannot be easily fixed with first aid or a conversation; it takes time for therapy and medication to work. Every family handles it the best they know how to at the time. If your family is going through a difficult period, know you are not alone. One in five youth will experience a mental health challenge at some point in their life. Greater than five percent of youth report having a substance use or alcohol problem. Seventeen million youth under the age of eighteen have or have had a psychiatric disorder. Parents/guardians often have to make difficult decisions like who is the right therapist, what (if any) medication is best, and which school/treatment program is a good fit. At the same time, parents/guardians need to take care of their own emotional mental health. These mi sheberachs were written by parents sharing their thoughts with the hope it helps someone else.

For Parents of Children with Mental Illness by Anonymous May the parents have the strength, courage, and resilience to be optimistic in the face of failure. May the parents have the courage to step away in love to allow their child to fail and learn from challenges.

From a Parent to their Child Struggling with Mental Health by Lisa May you know you are never a burden. You are always a blessing. May you never doubt my love for you and hope for you to live your life to the fullest. May you know your diagnosis is not your identity. May you never think your illness is your fault or that if you were stronger or more resilient, then you would not have this health challenge. May you have the strength to ask for help when you need it and believe you have the strength to fight your battles. May you come to understand that friends who faded away during your struggle still care but don’t know what to say or do to show their support. May you learn new skills, recognize and build on your strengths, and benefit from medication and nutrition to improve your mental health. May I show you the love and support you need at the right time and with an open heart. May I be more patient, less demanding, and more accepting of where you are in the moment. May you live to be an example of hope for others who struggle. May we help others to think more deeply about supporting with kindness and dignity families like ours that struggle with mental health. May Hashem bring you a complete and speedy healing, happiness, and blessings.

From the Parents of Children Suffering from Mental Illness by Amy & Amy Help me be the parent I need to be for my child at this moment. Help me let go of my need to fix, while staying engaged in the daily struggle. Help me be patient with my child and my parenting partner. Help me be the best listener I can be. Help me be empathetic. Help me see clearly, sidestepping denial but also distinguishing between fear and intuition. Give me the strength to reach out for help from professionals and peers. Help make my family stronger from this experience.

From a Parent in Support of Other Parents of Children with Mental Health or Substance Abuse Challenge by Lisa May you know you are not alone and believe it does get better. May Hashem bless you with dignity and compassion through this uncertain time. May Hashem grant you wisdom to make the difficult decisions at the right time as you accept your child’s future may be different from what you imagined. May you keep dreaming of a better future for them. May you never let your child’s illness trick you into thinking it is due to poor parenting or your failure to teach them resiliency. May you have the strength to take care of yourself, your family, and your other responsibilities. May you celebrate the small victories and pray for bigger wins. May you listen more and accept them from a place of understanding without going into “fix it” mode.

May you grow to understand their invisible illness and help them find pathways to recovery. May you be surrounded with trusted people to help you think through options and figure out the next step. May you forgive the well-intentioned but insensitive and judgmental words people say. May you bravely join conversations to build supportive schools, synagogues, and communities. May Hashem bring your family a complete and speedy healing, happiness, and blessings.

WRITING YOUR OWN MI SHEBERACH When we recite the mi sheberach, we tend to think of it as a prayer for someone who is physically ill. At times, however, it’s the mind that needs healing. And just as we pray for someone to recover from a physical challenge, we must pray for those confronting challenges to their mental health. As you can see, there are a multitude of ways to reimagine the traditional mi sheberach in relation to mental health. Do you know someone who needs mental or spiritual healing? Perhaps you will be inspired by what you have seen here to write your own mi sheberach for them and are open to sharing it as a communal resource. If so, please email us at info@thebluedovefoundation.org.

OUR PARTNERS It takes a great deal of creativity as well as faith to write a prayer. The ones in this book came out of a writing activity in some of the Blue Dove Foundation’s mental wellness workshops. Their authors range in age, religious affiliation, interests, and gender identification. In completing this activity, they drew on their own inspirations and challenges related to mental health. Yasher koach to all of them for offering these beautiful variations of the classical mi sheberach. If you’re interested in learning more about this workshop or booking one for your organization, visit thebluedovefoundation.org/workshop or email info@thebluedovefoundation.org.

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Jewish Organizations and Websites The Blue Dove Foundation - Addresses the issues of mental illness and substance abuse in the Jewish community and beyond through education, awareness, and outreach. Offers program support, workshops and training sessions to individuals and organizations. thebluedovefoundation.org AMUDIM - Functions as a confidential resource center that provides assistance, support, and direct referrals for individuals and families affected by sexual abuse, neglect, addiction, and other crisis-related matters. There are several offices in the United States as well as one in Israel. amudim.org Mental Health in the Jewish Community Facebook Group - Offers a safe and confidential space to discuss issues, extend support, ask questions, and share resources related to mental health in the Jewish community. facebook.com/groups/2271312056499440 OKclarity - Jewish therapist directory + online community. okclarity.com Our Jewish Recovery Facebook Group - Welcomes Jews in recovery and their loved ones looking to share experience, strength, and hope. Its main goal is to end the stigma about recovery in the Jewish world. facebook.com/groups/ourjewishrecovery Refuat HaNefesh - Focuses on cultivating a Jewish community that is more aware, respectful, and empathetic to people living with mental illness. refuathanefesh.org RELIEF - Provides emotional health referrals, education, and support for Jewish communities in the United States as well as Canada, Israel, and the United Kingdom. reliefhelp.org RUACH - Provides short-term (1-6 sessions) volunteer support to help meet immediate emotional and spiritual needs to persons from all walks of life, regardless of religion/observance level, age, nationality, gender identity, orientation, or political affiliation. ruachsupport.org A longer list is included on the Blue Dove Foundation website at thebluedovefoundation.org/jewishresources.

General Resources and Hotlines Al-Anon for Families of Alcoholics 1-800-344-2666 al-anon.org Information hotline answered from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. EST, M-F to learn about AlAnon family group meetings in your area. Crisis Text Lin In the US and Canada, text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor crisistextline.org Free 24/7 support at your fingertips. Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States, anytime. Crisis Text Line is here for any crisis. A live, trained crisis counselor receives the text and responds, all from our secure online platform. The volunteer crisis counselor will help you move from a hot moment to a cool moment National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) info@nami.org nami.org/help The NAMI HelpLine is a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with mental health conditions, their family members and caregivers, mental health providers, and the public. HelpLine staff and volunteers are experienced, well trained and able to provide guidance. The NAMI HelpLine can be reached Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. EST.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255) (1-800-SUICIDE) suicidepreventionlifeline.org The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 1-800-662-HELP (4357) samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline SAMHSA’s national helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.