Training in mental health issues
JEWISHCARE is increasing its involvement in mental health services, as well as training Zionist youth group leaders to respond to any mental health issues associated with young people.
JEWISHCARE is increasing its involvement in mental health services, as well as training Zionist youth group leaders to respond to any mental health issues associated with young people.
Chairperson of Netzer Sydney Joel McCarroll recalled a situation that arose during summer camp, where the leaders were thrown into a “confronting” situation with no prior experience.
After the incident, McCarroll and shaliach Dave Gottlib applied to the JCA for the necessary funds to train their leaders to handle mental health issues. JCA referred them to JewishCare, which immediately offered to train all Netzer leaders free of charge.
McCarroll said the training the leaders are receiving will give them “the confidence, empathy, network and support” they need to handle mental health issues that arise while young people are in their care.
“Mental health issues manifest themselves differently in each individual,” explained Netzer youth leader Ellie Bortz. “This training allowed some of the leaders to express their own experiences in a supporting environment. We were able to discuss things which aren’t normally discussed, which will help the leaders address any issues that arise within Netzer.”
Gottlib said the training is an “important part” of creating a youth movement that caters for the needs of its participants. He added that “26.1 per cent of young Australians suffer from depression or anxiety, so as a youth movement it’s very important for us to be aware of that and provide the leaders with the tools to handle it.”
The 16-hour training is “difficult but rewarding”, Bortz said. JewishCare workers will also be working with Hineni and Habonim in the coming weeks, as well as visiting schools to inform young people about the services available to them.
JewishCare is dedicated to “making sure that young people know what to do if they or someone they know is experiencing a mental health issue”, said executive officer Warren Hurst. “It’s important that we make sure that young people feel comfortable to talk about any issues before they reach crisis point.”
Meanwhile, two JewishCare staff members – a psychologist and a social worker – will be joining the team at Headspace Bondi Junction. They will be providing specialised support one day a week, assisting with intake, referral and clinical review meetings. They will also provide “culturally appropriate” medical care to young Jewish people if required.
“It’s important that the space be friendly for all young people, even if they just want to chat,” Hurst said.
YAEL BRENDER
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