I wrote the piece below for the synagogue’s weekly bulletin where I work, which goes out to our congregants every Friday. Today, on the first day of Mental Health Awareness Month, I shared a deeply personal part of my life with them, opening a window into a part of my life that isn’t always visible.
Over the past while, I’ve felt truly embraced by this community and I’m grateful to be part of a team that not only supports me and stands behind me, but truly values the importance for these conversations and the power of genuine connection. Something I definitely don’t take for granted.
I’m especially honoured that our Rabbi who I have come to consider a mentor and friend over the past year has asked me to speak to our congregation during Shabbat services next Saturday morning. It’s an opportunity that feels both humbling and incredibly meaningful.
BLOG:
As we enter the month of May, we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month. A time to open up conversations and bring awareness to something that touches so many lives, yet is still too often left unsaid.
For me, mental health is more than just a concept; it’s my reality. For the past 12 years, I’ve been living with an anxiety disorder, chronic depression, and some very dark and desperate moments. There are days when just getting through feels too overwhelming… even when everything looks fine on the outside.
For a long while, talking about it wasn’t easy. I kept it within a small circle while seeking help. Because there’s stigma. There’s fear. There’s shame.
But over time, I learned something really important. I learned that real strength isn’t about staying silent. It’s about being vulnerable. It’s about honesty, and having the courage to start the hard conversations. Once I embraced that truth, I found myself on a healing journey toward growth, resilience, and purpose; opening doors I never imagined possible.
When I first started sharing my story to the world back in 2016, something incredible happened. Friends and strangers alike began reaching out, with great appreciation and gratitude, sharing their own personal struggles and vulnerabilities with me. Even asking for help for their loved ones, too. I cannot put into words how this touched me, how something so personal became a bridge for others to feel seen, heard, and less alone. These connections are what led me to start my blog, youareenough712.wordpress.com in 2017, and eventually write and publish my children’s book, Where Did Mommy’s Smile Go?, in 2019. A book which aims to help families, educators and caregivers support children and talk in a way kids can understand their feelings when someone they love is struggling with depression. I originally wrote it as a labour of love for my own (now young adult) kids. A portion of the proceeds from my book go to support youth mental health initiatives. It’s become one of my greatest passions as a proud mental health advocate, sharing my journey through public speaking engagements with diverse audiences, including several Jewish organizations and our most vulnerable youth. I continue this work today to help others feel less alone and help to end the stigma.
Our tradition teaches that we are all created B’tzelem Elohim (in the image of God), and that Pikuach Nefesh, the preservation of life, is a sacred obligation. This must include caring for our mental health. And it calls on us to practice Chesed (loving kindness), showing up for one another with compassion and without judgment.
Mental health is health.
So this month, and every month, let’s keep talking. Let’s break the stigma. Let’s create a community where no one feels like they have to go through this alone.
If this resonates with you or someone you love, I’d love for you to join me during Shabbat services next weekend, Saturday, May 9th, as I continue this important conversation with our congregation.
Your story matters.
There is hope. There is healing.
We are not meant to carry this alone, and we don’t have to.
In Canada, you can call or text Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868) or the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline for immediate, confidential support.
Shabbat Shalom,
#grateful #honoured #community #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #youareenough
YouAreEnough 