Even when someone is thousands of miles away, their significance and impact on our lives does not always lessen. We still celebrate their achievements, worry about their struggles, and grapple with how we can best be there when they need us. And when the answers do not always seem apparent, Amudim’s goal is to work as hard as possible to help find them.
Talia* reached out to us about her 19 year-old son, Akiva*, who is returning home from yeshiva in Israel for Pesach. Although he has been working with a psychiatrist and therapist, Talia called Amudim’s U.S. office seeking guidance on what resources are available for Akiva and her family when he returns, sharing that virtual support is not feasible.
Our case manager spent time with Talia reviewing Akiva’s mental health history, the treatments he has received in the past, and what has been most helpful. She shared some of the difficulties, both financial and emotional, that she and her husband have experienced since their son was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Though they were worried about what would happen when he went away for the year, they have also had somewhat of a “break” from dealing with the daily challenges; and their added guilt was exacerbating their concern about how to best assist their son while balancing the needs of their other children. Talia’s case manager shared information about potential support groups that she could join, safe spaces with no judgment where she could speak with other parents in similar situations. They also reviewed various options for Akiva’s care once he returns, including referrals for a local therapist and psychiatrist. Everyone agrees that the best hope for continued progress is to ensure Akiva’s continuity of care.
Talia was grateful for the support, and she and her case manager have agreed to maintain biweekly check-ins to follow up about how she and the family are doing. We are hopeful that despite the geographic shift and other challenging dynamics, Akiva, his parents and siblings will remain in a positive place with the right support.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Amudim is just a phone call away and here to help.
Each week, Amudim fields calls covering a wide range of crises and addressing various human concerns, including addiction, depression, abuse, health and domestic emergencies and many others. We track the calls and breakdown of issues for many reasons, foremost of which is to consistently improve and strengthen our knowledge and ability to address community’s needs.
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THURSDAY, APRIL 10TH, 1:00–9:00 PM
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Pesach is about freedom—but what if it feels like the opposite?
This powerful story explores the pressure, the expectations, and the emotional overwhelm that Yom Tov can bring—and what it means to finally choose yourself.
Understanding Mental Health and Happiness
What does it really mean to be happy? In this powerful and insightful episode, Rabbi Avi Landa—mental health professional and expert in adolescent care—dives deep into the psychology of happiness and emotional well-being.
Drawing from his extensive work with Amudim, Rabbi Landa explores the core ingredients of true happiness: authentic relationships, strong self-esteem, and inner peace. He debunks the myth that wealth equals happiness, instead offering practical tools for emotional balance and resilience.
Topics covered in this talk include:
The true sources of happiness: Why relationships and self-worth matter most
Mental health awareness and the importance of early intervention
How diet, sleep, and exercise affect emotional stability
Practical breathing techniques and mindfulness exercises to manage anxiety
Building strong support systems for those battling depression
The unique role Amudim plays in supporting individuals through trauma and crisis