Jewish communities across California have been carrying a profound emotional weight. The precipitous rise in antisemitism, compounded by the trauma and aftermath of October 7, has left many individuals and families navigating fear, grief, vulnerability, and isolation. Even when headlines fade, the psychological impact lingers.
To help address this moment, JCRC Bay Area convened a two-part webinar series focused on the intersection of antisemitism and mental health. We were honored to bring together leading experts who are studying and treating the effects of antisemitism on Jewish wellbeing. These conversations explore not only what our community is experiencing, but also how we can respond with resilience, care, and informed support.
Understanding the Psychological Impact of Antisemitism with Dr. Joshua Simmons
Additional Reading:
- Handout from Dr. Joshua Simmons: “The Psychological Impact of Antisemitism & Cultivating Resilience”
Jewish Mental Health in a Post-10/7 California with Dr. Leah Hibel
Additional Reading:
- UC Davis study on rising mental health challenges among California Jews (abstract)
- JWeekly Op-Ed, Dr. Leah Hibel: We need a national public health response to antisemitism
- Opportunity to participate in a new UC Davis study (for Jewish moms over the age of 18, with a child born between September 1, 2022 and September 30, 2023)
Mental Health Resources
- Jewish Family & Children’s Services (JFCS) supports families with everyday challenges to complex mental health issues with expert clinical care and a wide range of specialized service and provides a Talking to children about antisemitism guide.
- The Jewish Community Mental Health Initiative (JCMHI) provides essential mental health support for the Jewish community.
- Gesher Campus Care connects (GCC) the Jewish community to safe, supportive, and culturally competent therapists.
- Information from the JED Foundation, a national mental health and suicide prevention organization
- Stress & Trauma Toolkit for Treating Jewish Americans in a Changing Political and Social Environment
- Hebrew Free Loan provides interest-free loans for health care expenses that aren’t covered by insurance.
JCRC Resources
- Responding to Antisemitism
- Education Resources for Schools and Families
- Israel-related Resources for Understanding the Conflict
- Here I Am, JCRC’s initiative brings to light our personal experiences with antisemitism, and educate our neighbors how to be Jewish allies in this fraught moment.
