Submitted by Jewish Family Service of Cincinnati
Jewish Family Service of Cincinnati (JFS) and its Youth Mental Health Services team has announced the fall date for an inaugural mental health symposium, which will be hosted by Jewish Family Service and held in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, the Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati, and the Mayerson Jewish Community Center.
On November 17, experienced presenters, Pamela Schuller and Sophie Riegel, will offer new ways for parents, caregivers, and professionals to connect with Jewish youth, teens, or young adults towards the goal of fostering resilient Jewish youth in Cincinnati. As dynamic and engaging mental health advocates, Schuller and Riegel will provide meaningful insights on reducing mental health stigma and empowering Jewish youth, families, and professionals.
Across the nation, young people are facing unprecedented pressures that affect their well-being and mental health. As they navigate an increasingly complex world, there is a growing need for support systems and spaces where they can thrive emotionally. Young people today are remarkably resilient, but they need allies in their corner. In 2024, the US Surgeon General urged collective action to address the mental health needs of families and young people, “raising children is sacred work, it should matter to all of us.”
“Young people today really need to feel noticed and understood,” said Leah Marcus, JFS Youth Mental Health Director. “Parents, caregivers, teachers, and other adults are key in creating safe spaces where kids can be themselves and feel supported. When we all work together, kids can learn to tackle challenges, grow in healthy ways, and build resilience.”
“Supporting young people means looking at the whole picture,” said Tiffany Thomas, JFS Youth Mental Health Program Manager. “To really make a difference in their mental health, we need to focus on all aspects of their well-being: emotional, spiritual, physical, and mental. That means respecting who they are, standing up for marginalized groups, and helping them build the skills to adapt and grow through whatever comes their way.”
