The Jewish Community Mental Health Initiative (JCMHI) is a Direct Action Program of the American Psychological Foundation. The program provides free, ongoing clinician-led support groups that offer a safe environment to process complex emotions, traumatic experiences, and grief stemming from the rise in antisemitism. In addition to direct support, JCMHI is committed to providing resources and education, and to conducting research on antisemitism to inform and enhance the clinical work. This reciprocal integration of lived experience and clinical insight deepens understanding and strengthens collective response to the mental health needs of the Jewish community.
Impact
What Participants Value Most:
This was my first time attending a support group (instead of just individual therapy) and I really enjoyed every minute. It was comforting hearing the stories from other group members and I loved how the facilitators asked gently probing questions of each of us. The discussion was very good and I left feeling much less isolated and very proud to be a part of such an awesome community/culture.
Being able to express (rather than having to hold back) a hugely important aspect of my present reality; and equally, hearing others’ experiences and how they are coping.
Ongoing Research
In addition to support groups and resource development, JCMHI is conducting research on the impact of antisemitism on the mental health of Jewish communities. There are currently ongoing studies focused on examining the experiences of antisemitism and coping among Jewish young adults as well as exploring whether Jewish Americans are experiencing Traumatic Invalidation (extreme or repetitive invalidation of individual’s significant experiences). JCMHI hopes to understand the impact of Traumatic Invalidation on mental health and well-being and to provide recommendations for culturally-sensitive assessment, treatment, and validation with the Jewish community.
Support JCMHI
Support JCMHI today! Contributions go towards funding essential resources, ongoing research, expanding group offerings, creating more content and resources, training clinicians to provide effective support, and enabling us to reach more individuals in need of connection and healing.
For more details on JCMHI’s programming, resources, and support groups, visit jcmhi.com.
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