Many Chesed organizations exist to help with medical care, yet many times, mental health care is not included. We can’t push off care for a broken arm or appendicitis, but if a marriage is in trouble, it’s easier to push it aside then find money for treatment in a tight budget. Yesh Tikvah is an organization that brings hope to Clevelanders who need mental health care, but can’t afford it.
Up until now, Yesh Tikvah has served only clients 18 years or older. However, the need to serve teens in our community has been studied. In 2010, Dr. Mendel Singer, PhD., MPH did a survey of the three main schools serving the Orthodox community. Participants in the study answered questions about stress, depression, and living up to expectations.
High school girls were given additional questions about body image. The results across the board left no doubts. Forty three percent of Orthodox high school girls are bothered by their body image. Depression symptoms were reported in forty two percent of the respondents.
Yesh Tikvah has been able to initiate a pilot teen program with funding for ten teens. To qualify, applicants must have explored free or cheaper options (additional rules can be found on the website and in the guidelines). All information is kept strictly confidential. To apply for adult Yesh TIkvah services, there is an application on the website, www.ytforhope.org . For teen applications, please email Rabbi Joseph at alj@ytforhope.org or call him at 216-403- 2726.
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