As my sisters, my boyfriend, my friends and my students rallied to help me cope with physical illness, my mind was being warped by something more insidious. Realizing that I would live the rest of my life as a disabled person, I started to wonder whether or not life was worth living...
9 Comments Posted
I am also a convert, and yes there is a point at which I've said, it's not Jewish (to do whatever) , and the only way to go is to keep doing mitzvos, the only way to stay sane. They are our connection to G-d, and once we're connected, anything can happen! Thank you for sharing this with us.
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As a Jew by Choice, I have run the "it's not Jewish to do ..." through my mind on occasion. However, after many years of therapy and countless meds to change my moods, etc., I have discovered that maturity, Prozac, and a lot of G-d has made me overcome most of the not nice things life can offer.
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I just wanted to write and commend your courage and your honesty. My mother was mentally ill, and killed herself when I was a teenager - nothing has ever been the same since, and I've spent more of my life without her than I did with her. I regret so much that I didn't know what she was going through - and I will pray for you to remain always consciously aware of the loving protection of Hashem.
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It is important that people come out of the closet about the effects of physical issues on our mental wellbeing and about people who may look "normal" but have disabilities of all types. It is also important that mental illness and its affects be discussed in traditional Judaism, rather than having them swept under the carpet. Depression is a chemical imbalance and religion or therapy alone cannot cure it without getting the chemicals rebalanced with medical treatment. The jewish community needs to be more open about mental illness and its debilitating effect.
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Thank You for writing this I know u have helped many others by revealing your story. May You always have that strength in yourself and G-d's help.
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I appreciate your openness and honesty. I too have a mother who was is manic depressive and unsuccessfully tried to kill herself a number of times. The struggle to grow up healthy in such an environment is tremendous. It was very strengthening to hear your struggles as well. Thanks so much for sharing and may you give strength to all those who share in your story
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Thank You for writing this. Baruch Hashem, Thank G-d i came across this article today. I was struggling with suicidal thoughts (G-d forbid) your article refocuses my commitment to accept with confidence whatever is coming, and what has been. :-)
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i want to know how you are doing now?
i am struggling just as you.
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Dear Aliza,
I am amazed by the fact that if you do a search for Orthodox Jewish Mental Health Centers, very few entries emerge. I am also struck by the fact that the Frum websites relating to mental health relate to eating disorders. I am certain that there is a stigma involved here, and that the silence must be broken by people who are as courageous as you. Yashar Koach. Best wishes always.
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