Be a Healthy Friend — Bringing Connection Where It May Be Missing in the Frum Community
As a therapist working in yeshivos, private practice, and at the B’Shalom Center, I see how much silent pain people carry.
I work with individuals struggling with eating disorders, trauma, and other mental health challenges. Every story is different, yet one theme comes up again and again: isolation makes everything worse.
Recently, I sat with a client who had been in and out of treatment centers for years. Baruch Hashem, she’s now in a stronger place — healing her trauma and moving forward in recovery. But as she made healthier choices, she saw how alone she felt. Many of her past relationships had been unhealthy or toxic. Working on them, setting boundaries — it left her with a painful void.
So many in our community feel cut off, ashamed, or afraid of being “found out.” The stigma around mental health often drives people deeper into isolation. Some join Zooms with cameras off or WhatsApp groups under fake names — just for a small chance at connection without fear of exposure.
That’s what inspired me to start this initiative.
We need a simple, safe way for people to connect.
Not as therapists. Not as rescuers.
Just as healthy friends.
Someone who’s been there — or simply someone grounded and caring — offering presence, encouragement, and a listening ear.
And this isn’t just a feel-good idea. Research shows that people who feel cared for, supported, and connected have a higher chance of recovery — whether from mental health challenges or even physical illness.
Why?
Because feeling loved and supported:
Reduces stress and anxiety
Strengthens resilience and hope
Increases motivation for recovery
Builds trust and breaks cycles of shame
Connection itself becomes part of the healing.
This kind of support takes thought and sensitivity. Confidentiality and boundaries are non-negotiable. That’s why, through the B’Shalom Center, we’re thoughtfully pairing people:
Men with men
Women with women
Those further along in healing with those just beginning
We’ll also provide simple guidelines:
How do you show up for someone without taking on too much?
What does healthy support look like?
When should you encourage someone to seek professional help?
We’ve recently launched a WhatsApp group for the frum community — a space for resources, encouragement, and connection.
Join the Group here –
https://chat.whatsapp.com/InBTihMK7G0BRiPqkHIXdr
Especially during the Three Weeks and Nine Days — a time of reflection on disconnection and destruction — it’s a chance to strengthen care, connection, and community.
If you’d like to support someone — or if you’re looking for more support yourself — reach out.
To learn more about the B’Shalom Center — our therapy services, meal coaching, and community support — visit www.bshalomcenter.com.
