Temple Judea’s Mental Health & Wellness Initiative

The Jewish prayer for healing, Mi Shebeirach, includes the beautiful phrase refuat hanefesh v’refuat haguf—a healing of both spirit and body. It’s an important reminder that in Judaism, our mental and emotional well-being are just as important as our physical health. As 2025 unfolds, many of us in the Temple Judea community may still be feeling anxious, uncertain, or weighed down by what lies ahead. Maybe you find yourself or someone you love struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, substance abuse or other mental or emotional challenges.

This year’s theme, Kol Yisrael Aravim Zeh b’Zeh, reminds us that our connections to each other are both a source of strength and comfort. They are also a call to care for one another, especially during times of difficulty. We, as a community, are here to support you. Whether in moments of crisis or moments of calm, Temple Judea’s Senior Leadership is fully committed to your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. We want to hear from you—how you’re feeling, what you need, and how we can walk alongside you. 

If you or someone you know could benefit from pastoral support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our clergy team by calling 818-758-3800 x209 or emailing We are here for you, and we care deeply about your well-being.

In addition to individual support, Temple Judea offers numerous opportunities to foster connection and healing with programs designed to help you feel supported, valued, and connected. The TJ Brotherhood and Women of Temple Judea provide programs for the men and women in our community to support each other. For our mature adult community, TJVillage, SAYVA, and Growing Older, Growing Wiser offer a supportive network with others who are facing similar experiences. TJ’s Caring Community program ensures that no one feels alone, providing support and comfort to those in need through the oys and joys of life. Our ECC offers classes and support groups geared towards those struggling with reproductive and parenting challenges. These programs, along with our broader community initiatives, are here to nurture your sense of connection, healing, and shared support. You are an important part of our Temple family, and together, we will continue to build a community where everyone feels cared for and uplifted.

We’ve also created a new hub for Temple Judea’s Mental Health & Wellness Initiative - The Wellbeing of the Soul. Below, you’ll find a growing list of resources designed to guide and support you through difficult times. We’ll continue to update and expand this collection with new tools and information to assist anyone on their journey toward healing. Please remember: you don’t have to walk this journey alone. We are here for you, and together, we will find our way forward with strength, healing, and hope.

Let us continue to support one another, lifting each other up with kindness, compassion, and the reminder that we are all responsible for each other’s well-being. We are one community, and we are stronger together.

MENTAL HEALTH Related Resources

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Know the resources available to you before an emergency arises. Keep these contacts easily accessible.

  • Emergency Medical Services: Call 911 if you believe someone is in immediate, life-threatening danger and may harm themselves. If you cannot reach their parent or guardian, call 911 for immediate emergency assistance (United States and Canada).
  • 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for 24/7 support from trained crisis counselors for anyone facing a mental health crisis, including suicidal thoughts, substance use, or emotional distress. You can also call 988 if you’re worried about a loved one.
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-7233 or chat online for confidential support from expert advocates available 24/7 to anyone experiencing domestic violence or seeking resources.
  • National Sexual Assault Hotline: Call 1-800-656-4673 or chat online for support from trained professionals offering free services for survivors of sexual assault. Free online chat support is available 24/7.
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness Helpline: Call 1-800-950-6264 (Monday–Friday, 10 am–8 pm ET) for peer-support, information, and resource referrals for people living with mental health conditions, as well as their families, caregivers, and mental health providers.

STARTING THE CONVERSATION: 

  • Seize the Awkward: Learn how to start conversations about mental health with those who might be struggling.

  • Active Minds: Engage young adults in mental health advocacy and suicide prevention.

    • No Shame on U: Mental health guides  & handouts for dealing with social anxiety, climate anxiety, social media overwhelm, and other challenges.

    MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES, SUPPORT GROUPS, & EDUCATION: 

    • Jewish Family Service LA: Offers over 30 programs, including mental health counseling, food security, and housing support.
    • OK Clarity: An online platform for connecting with vetted mental health professionals who specialize in serving the Jewish community.
    • JQ Helpline: Inclusive support and resources for LGBTQ+ Jews, their families, and allies.
    • Our House: Grief Support Center and resources.
    • Ayeleth Hashachar: Evidence-based resources for managing eating disorders within the Jewish community.
    • Refaenu: Offers education and support for those affected by depression, bipolar disorder, and other behavioral health issues, along with resources for loved ones.
    • HereNow App: A teen-led platform for teens to connect, share experiences, and access mental health resources. Available on Google Play and the App Store. A project of The Jewish Board with support from UJA-Federation of New York.
    • Refuat Henefesh: Works to create a more empathetic and aware Jewish community regarding mental illness, with blog posts, resources, and educational materials.
    • Strongerthanstigma: Provides empowerment and support for individuals struggling with mental health issues and their families.

    We are here for you. Together, we can create a supportive community where no one has to face mental health challenges alone.

    Note: Temple Judea does not support or endorse programs, books or anything else not created by our team. We leave it up to each individual to decide what speaks to them.

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