Mental Health Awareness Shabbat coincides with Parashat Bo. On this Shabbat we read about the plague of darkness, which can be likened to the experiences of many living with mental illness and distress. The parasha also talks about how the Israelites, full of hope, could see through the darkness into the light. This special Shabbat is an opportunity for us to encourage conversations on mental health, raise awareness of mental illness and distress and share ideas on how to support ourselves and others within our community.
 

JAMH Event - 'Mental Health & Antisemitism'

JAMH and Shrubberies Shul are holding an event this Shabbat 20th Jan 2024 in Shul after kiddush. Dr Sandi Mann will be talking about how her article about Jewish trauma was dropped by a national magazine just before publication and how this cancel culture affected her mental health. There will be an opportunity for others to share their experiences of antisemitism.
 

Neshomo - Reach Out Campaign 

Neshomo are using Mental Health Awareness Shabbat as a springboard for people to reach out to those facing mental health challenges.For those interested in supporting people in the community struggling with their Mental health, Neshomo are looking for male befrienders. 

Befrienders are volunteers, who do not need to have any background working or training in the area of mental health as volunteers are not expected to offer clinical help to the clients. Rather, they are there to listen, be a confidential and professional support and possibly work together on mutually agreed goals if the client desires. This does not need to be more than 1 hour/week of your time and all volunteers are provided with training and regular supervision. See poster below for more information.