The recent events in Israel may be causing a range of emotions and concerns that can affect your and your family’s mental health.
This page is meant to provide information and resources to help Temple Israel of Greater Miami congregants and their families navigate these challenging times:
- Counseling Services from JCS (Jewish Community Services of South Florida)
- Details about possible social media concerns and information on how to talk to your children and teens from URJ NFTY and Camp Coleman
- Seeking professional help and how to connect with our clergy for counseling
Counseling Services:
Jewish Community Services of South Florida’s (JCS) experienced, culturally competent, trauma-informed mental health counselors will provide three small-group support sessions for adults (18+) to support our community. Advanced registration is required. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the session.
To register, please call JCS 211 Miami by dialing 2-1-1. These sessions will be held during the following times:
Tuesday, Oct. 17, 3 PM
Wednesday, Oct. 18, 6 PM
*For urgent questions, please call 211 in Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. For all other inquiries, don't hesitate to contact
Additional national resource: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources.
Social Media Concerns:
Yesterday, an email was sent out through the Union for Reform Judaism’s (URJ) NFTY and Camping programs. Our regional camp is Camp Coleman, and many congregants attend this home away from home each summer. For congregants with children and teens:
“Recent reports out of Israel are warning parents and urging them to have children and teens remove or silence some social media apps with live-streaming capability from their devices. This is out of deep concern and fear that Hamas may begin showing horrific hostage videos on these platforms – specifically TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
Hamas has threatened to execute Israeli hostages on video. These images can be traumatic to anyone who views them, especially youth. We [URJ] recognize that we cannot (and do not intend to) control all of our children's internet consumption. We believe in the importance of protecting them from harm this way. At the very least, we urge you to have a conversation with your child(ren) so that they can avoid such images.”
In addition, here are some resources URJ Camp Coleman found helpful:
Here’s How to Talk to Your Kids About What’s Happening in Israel Right Now
How to Talk to Teens and Kids About the Israel-Hamas War
Handle With Care: Supporting Young People During a Time of Crisis
Resilience in a time of war: Tips for parents and teachers of elementary school children
Seeking Professional Help:
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, please consider contacting a mental health professional. They are trained to provide the necessary support and guidance.
Our clergy team is here to listen and support you. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns or questions or need someone to talk to. We want to remind you that you are not alone in this. Our temple community is here to stand by you, offering support, compassion, and solidarity during these difficult times.
Rabbi Barbara Goldman-Wartell –
Cantor Rachelle Nelson –