NAMI FaithNet is an interfaith resource network striving to educate and support faith leaders in creating a mental health friendly, stigma-free congregations in Santa Clara County. In this blog series, we highlight local faith communities that are commited to this goal.
Congregation Beth AM is truly one of Santa Clara County’s pioneers in developing a mental health ministry. Sixteen years ago, after the courageous testimonial of a member with Major Depressive Disorder, Congregation Beth AM went on to create a mental health support group called Beit R’fuah which means House of Healing.
Beit R’fuah (House of Healing) is a mental health support group for individuals and families at Congregation Beth Am in Los Altos Hills, California.The purpose of Beit R’fuah is to address mental health issues among congregants by providing a safe, compassionate and supportive environment in which to share personal experiences and receive support from fellow participants.
Do you ever wish you could talk freely about dealing with depression or bipolar disorder in a safe and loving environment?
Ever wish you could meet people who really understand what’s it’s like to be a sufferer or family member who copes with mental health issues?
Beit R’fuah offers a confidential, safe and caring community of folks who really understand and offer support, connection and friendship. The group is led by a NAMI certified trainer who is proud to be one of Beit R’fuah’s founders. Come and join us, learn techniques to promote relaxation, make wonderful new friends and learn about community resources. Remember — you are not alone; we are here.
This group that begins with the breaking of Challah bread and a communal meal, and then moves into a time of meditation, sharing, and uplifting singing is a model for the kind of hope and connection a faith community can offer to those with mental health challenges.
Watch this powerful documentary on how this synagogue de-stigmatizedmental illness and created a mental health friendly congregation.
Congregation Beth AM
26790 Arastradero Rd Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
Website: https://www.betham.org
Contact: mentalhealth@betham.org
NAMI FaithNet has added this congregation to it’s list of “Mental Health Friendly” Congregations.
