More than a quarter of Jewish mental health charity’s new referrals cite Gaza
Jami UK said Jewish community felt 'overwhelmed' with sadness and anger at the events since Hamas's 7 October attack on southern Israel
Jewish mental health charity Jami UK has said that antisemitism and Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza have been cited in more than a quarter of new referrals.
In a statement this week, the organisation’s director of services Louise Kermode said members of the Jewish community were feeling “devastated and overwhelmed”, with 26 percent suffering an impact from the military action and its repercussions.
She said that Hamas’s attacks on 7 October, the war that followed, and the related rise in Jew hatred in the UK were “exacerbating” the symptoms of those who were already suffering from mental health issues.
“The horrific events have impacted so many members of the community. People are feeling devastated, overwhelmed, and are experiencing sadness and anger.
“For those already living with mental illness and distress, a situation like this can make everyday life an even greater struggle than it already is.”
In response to Jews’ heightened anxiety, Jami UK is working with consultant clinical psychologist and trauma expert Dr Stuart Linke, who has been speaking to people at synagogues including Stanmore and Canons Park, Woodford Forest, and United Synagogue communities in Hertfordshire.
Linke further addressed organisations such as UJIA, British Emunah Fund, and the Board of Deputies, while Jami also hosted a support event for 50 people who were flown out of Israel, including some who witnessed the Hamas attacks.
“The emphasis was on creating a supportive and safe environment,” said Jami. “Some chose to talk a little about how they were feeling, others were happy to be in a safe space where children could play and families could get ‘light touch’ emotional support.”
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If you need support or are supporting someone who needs help, visit jamiuk.org/get-support/ or contact them on 020 8458 2223.
If you are struggling to cope or need immediate help, contact Shout’s 24/7 crisis text service. Text Jami to 85258 for free, confidential support.
For free, safe and confidential online counselling and emotional wellbeing services for adults, contact Jami Qwell at ww.qwell.io/jami
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