Awareness isn’t access: Jewish mental health since Oct. 7
- Rochelle Steinwurtzel, Psy.D
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Mental health awareness is only meaningful if people can actually access care that feels safe, culturally informed, and understood.
In her latest piece for eJewish Philanthropy, Jessica Zmood, co-founder and director of Gesher Community Care, reflects on the emotional reality many Jewish individuals have faced since October 7, including heightened anxiety, grief, fear, trauma, and isolation. While conversations around Jewish mental health have become more visible, many are still struggling to find therapists and support systems that genuinely understand the lived experiences of the Jewish community.
This piece highlights the growing need for culturally competent mental health care, community support, and spaces where Jewish individuals can feel seen without having to explain or defend their identity.
Excerpt From The Article
In May, we mark both Mental Health Awareness Month and Jewish American Heritage Month. Together, they ask not only who we are as a community, but how we care for one another, especially in moments that test us.
Since Oct. 7, 2023, Jewish mental health has moved to the forefront of communal conversation. Organizations, institutions and leaders have responded with urgency and care, expanding programming, creating spaces for connection and encouraging open dialogue around fear, grief and identity.
These efforts matter. They reflect a community that takes care seriously. For years, Jewish communal organizations have invested in mental health support, building programs, services and systems that have helped many access care.
But this moment also reveals something more complex: much of our existing infrastructure, while deeply valuable, was not built for the scale and specificity of need that has emerged post-Oct. 7.
Reach Out for Help
If you are in need of mental health resources, please reach out. Mental health is only meaningful if people can actually access care that feels safe, culturally informed, and understood. We're here to help.
