| Over one hundred participants attended the first session in a series of lectures on mental health. The series is geared for families of mentally ill individuals and was hosted by Ezer Mizion's Mental Health Division, which provides year round support and assistance for the mentally ill and their families.
The lecture series, featuring eight sessions, is being delivered by Dr. Yaakov Charnes, Ministry of Health regional vice-psychiatrist for the Tel Aviv region. This first lecture presented innovations for dealing with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). It was attended by many parents of the mentally ill.
The series is a collaborative effort between Ezer Mizion's Mental Health Division, "Pa'amonei Tivkah" - Bells of Hope - an association of charedi parents of mentally ill children, and the municipal Social Services Department.
The sessions in this unique lecture series take place once a month. At the conclusion of each session, a roundtable discussion takes place between Dr. Charnes and the Ezer Mizion's Mental Health Division professional staff, which functions under the supervision and close guidance of the Ministry of Health, and provides assistance, counsel and professional help for families whose loved one suffers from mental illness.
Ezer Mizion's Mental Health Division includes two units: The first unit provides counsel and referral to appropriate treatments by professionals in the various fields of mental health, for every age and circumstance. The second unit focuses on rehabilitation and treatment, offering occupational rehabilitation, social clubs, mentoring and supportive services. Theses services feature separate branches for men and women, support groups for parents and more.
Ms. Rena Bina, director of Ezer Mizion's Mental Health Division, says that many families heard about the lecture series only after the first session took place last week, and immediately called to reserve a spot for the rest of the series.
"This again confirms that people want more information in the field of mental health. There is a strong wish on the part of the familyto help their mentally ill relative in the best way possible. There is also a clear desire to gain coping tools to better handle what they themselves are going through.
"These lectures raise awareness of the importance of dealing with these problems in time. There is no question that early treatment and elevated consciousness are of utmost benefit and can prevent a great deal of misery." |
