You’ll find articles, actionable tips and expert advice on fitness, physical and mental health, nutrition, and everything in between.

Navigating the Mental Health Impacts of Infectious Diseases

(newyorkrequirements.com) In the realm of healthcare, the battle against infectious diseases extends far beyond the physical ailments they inflict. As we navigate through the complexities of diseases that can spread with alarming rapidity, we confront not only the tangible impact on the body but also the profound psychological toll on both those diagnosed and the dedicated professionals who care for them. The psychological ramifications—ranging from heightened stress and anxiety to severe burnout and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—cast long shadows over the well-being of patients and healthcare workers alike.

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Spiritual Need; Make a Rav for yourself
by Rabbi Igael “Iggy” Gurin Malous

We are living in an era of incredible technological advancements and unprecedented connectivity, yet paradoxically, many of us experience pervasive loneliness, a silent epidemic, affecting individuals across the globe. Many grapple with an overwhelming sense of isolation.

After years of leading a purpose-driven organization, charging through crises, building community, and working on a larger scale my journey is morphing from the strategic to the personal. In a profound shift, I have pivoted back to the roots of my rabbinate, providing individual spiritual counseling. Taking a unique approach that transcends the superficial layers of human existence, my counselees and I delve into the depths of the soul to address the existential void contributing to the epidemic of loneliness.

Please read the Rabbi’s article in its entirety!


Slingshot Fund releases new ‘10 to Watch,’ with a focus on mental health

(Forward) — The innovation and young philanthropy-focused Slingshot Fund released its 2023 “10 to Watch” list, highlighting relatively new organizations and programs that its selection committee determined to be addressing critical needs in the Jewish community in fresh ways…

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6 Foods Every Man Over 50 Should Avoid Eating — and Why

(Everyday Health) — Nutrition experts hesitate to call any food “forbidden,” reasoning that it’s okay to eat all foods in moderation, with an occasional “treat” of less-than-healthy fare. Still, some foods do merit a spot on the “worst foods for your health” list for men over 50. Why that age 50 cutoff? Because, as the Cleveland Clinic explains, one way to cut the risk of medical conditions that are more common in older men, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure, is to cut back on foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt, and added sugars… 

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National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Steven Mandel MD
Heidi Mandel PhD, LMSW, DPM

Every 11 minutes, someone dies by suicide in the United States. There has been an increase of 36% between 2000 and 2021. Last year, 50,000 people died by suicide in the US.

Depression is the most common cause of suicide. Additional causes include anxiety disorders, serious health conditions, prolonged stress, substance use disorder, unemployment, bipolar, personality disorder, personality traits such as aggression, and many others.

988 is a toll free, and free confidential compassionate care service for people in a suicidal crisis, experiencing mental distress including substance abuse or just aren’t sure on where to turn. The service provides emotional support while reducing the distress and guiding health decisions.

Hearing impaired and blind:
711 and 1-800-273-8255

Chatting: 988lifeline.org

The NY Metro FJMC encourages you to use this resource. Our goal should be to advocate by getting the word out to our synagogues – weekly bulletin and recourses.

Source: JAMA ; 330 (11), 1025-1028, 2023