Judaism

Good Thinking has worked with members of London’s Jewish community to create mental wellbeing resources that align with Jewish beliefs and practices.

‘ בָּעֶרֶב, יָלִין בֶּכִי; לַבֹּקֶר רִנָּה

'Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning’ (Psalm 30:6)

With the support of Jami, Rabbi Miriam Berger, Rabbi Daniel Epstein, The London Jewish Forum, Maccabi GB and the London Borough of Barnet, Good Thinking has produced a range of guides and videos to help members of London’s Jewish community boost their wellbeing and cope with losing a loved one.

Practising the five ways to good mental wellbeing, which are recommended by the NHS, can have a very positive impact on your mood and wellbeing. These are also things that are encouraged in the Jewish tradition.

Good Thinking’s Five ways to good mental wellbeing & Judaism guide provides practical advice on boosting wellbeing through the lens of Judaism and is supported by quotes from sacred texts.

If you’d like to print the guide, we’ve created a printable version (full colour is recommended). Please make sure your printer is set to A4, check the 'Print on both sides of the paper' option and click the 'Flip on short edge' button to ensure that the pages print the right way round.

Promote positive mental wellbeing in your community

To spread the word about Good Thinking and our free wellbeing resources for the Jewish community, simply download the Mental wellbeing and Judaism communications toolkit.

Please note, the ‘Five ways to good mental wellbeing & Judaism’ guide was created during the COVID-19 pandemic so it contains references to government guidelines and lockdowns.

Jami provides a wealth of mental health resources and support, including online support, carer and family support, community hubs and education and training
Jewish Bereavement Counselling Service offers bereavement focused counselling
Jewish Care runs two residential services for people with mental health needs
GIFT offers five main services, including a food bank and help in the home
Jewish Women’s Aid provides support for Jewish women and children affected by domestic and sexual violence
Norwood provides support for vulnerable children and their families, children with special educational needs and people with learning disabilities and autism

Video messages from the Jewish community

Once you’ve read Good Thinking’s ‘Five ways to good mental wellbeing & Judaism’ guide, you might like to watch our short videos that contain inspiring messages from members of London’s Jewish community about each of the five ways.

Councillor Caroline Stock, Chair of the Barnet Health and Wellbeing Board and former Mayor of Barnet, on the importance of looking after your mental health and wellbeing