When is it Time to Talk to a Therapist?

The world we live in is quite stressful. When life feels a little out of control either because you are feeling a depressed or anxious or believe that anxiety and depression are causing problems in your life, our therapists can assist you in building the skills to get back on track.

Anxiety:  How are you going to pay the rent, get promoted, help your child…when these thoughts run through your head it can cause a significant amount of stress and anxiety that keeps you in a state of panic. This anxiety can make you uncomfortable and possibly shut you down from moving forward. We understand and can help you start to put systems in place to not only make your situation better but also relax into enjoying life.

Depression:  Everyone is sad every now and again…and a few days can be normal. But if you suffer from prolonged periods of sadness, it is time to talk to a professional. Depression looks like many things and our counselors help those in the Greater Mercer County area start to move forward a bit and combat or at least learn to deal with the sadness and lead a happy and productive life.

Couples Therapy: Marriage and relationships, in general, can be difficult to navigate at times. All marriages have bumps in the road including infertility, financial struggles, differences of opinions in raising children.  It can be tough. Sometimes talking through your issues with a marriage counselor can work wonders. Without taking sides our psychologists can help you and your significant other some different ways to communicate to ease tension and focus on building your loving relationship. 

When you are looking for a therapist there may be a crisis that you or your entire family is trying to handle. And if you are looking for a provider who accepts your insurance, those options are even more limited. Here in Mercer County, NJ, our therapists can help with a variety of issues and provide coping skills to get your life back on track. We are able to take most private insurance plans as well as those with Medicare, Medicaid and the uninsured.

The day to day of life may seem overwhelming to manage and we are here to help. 

JFCS to Hold Pop-Up Pantry at Christ Congregation

DATE:  Thursday, October 24, 2019

TIME: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

WHERE: Christ Congregation, 50 Walnut Lane, Princeton

Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) will be taking its Community Food Pantry on the road and hosting a Pop-Up Food Pantry at Christ Congregation in Princeton (50 Walnut Lane) on Thursday, October 24 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  Fresh fruits, vegetables, snack foods, and non-perishable items will be available.  A vegetarian dinner prepared by congregants will be served at 6:00 p.m. and there will also be a coloring activity for kids.  Food pantry distribution is first-come, first-served until food runs out.  Open to the community.  No proof of income is necessary, but you must self-attest to need.  If you plan to attend the dinner, please RSVP to Beth Englezos at bethe@jfcsonline.org or 609-987-8100, ext. 126.

Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Greater Mercer County (JFCS) has been operating the Yvette Sarah Clayman Community Food Pantry since 1999.  The Pantry is choice-based and allows clients to shop for their food instead of picking up a prepared bag.  This follows our philosophy of empowering clients to care effectively for themselves and others.  It is open to people of all denominations in Mercer County.

JFCS Celebrates Older Americans Month 2019

Each May, the Administration for Community Living leads our nation in observance of Older Americans Month.  We are proud that the work of our Senior Services Department at JFCS so well reflects this year’s themes:   Connect, Create, Contribute.

Connect:  All our Senior Programs are designed to connect seniors to each other and to the wide variety of resources that are available in our community.   Secure@Home  and our Geriatric Care Consultations bring the expertise of our geriatric care managers to each individual’s home, for personalized care and support.  Jewish bereavement group,  caregiver support groups and the Dementia Caregiver Connection all enable those affected to share their painful experiences with others and also receive support and information from knowledgeable sources.  Nosh & Knowledge events bring dynamic learning to our community.  Friendly Visitors pairs volunteers and older adults for a fulfilling experience for both on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.  Beginning in July, we will partner with Greenwood House to create a social gathering for anyone affected with memory challenges and their care partners at Friend’s Circle:  A Memory Café.

Create:  At JFCS, we are always looking for new ways to respond to community needs, on our own and in partnership with other organizations.  This year we have begun several new Senior Nutrition Initiatives to support the health and mental well-being of our seniors.   Cooking Companions debuts this month as part of a first-time innovative national grant to bring volunteers and isolated seniors together to cook and share a meal.  Shabbat on Wheels is a new addition to our long-standing Kosher Meals on Wheels program to provide a traditional Shabbat meal to seniors once each month.  And our Healthy @Home Senior Nutrition Program works in conjunction with our unique kosher food pantry and our on-staff dietician to meet the dietary needs of low-income, homebound older adults in our community.

Contribute:  Many of the programs mentioned above provide opportunities for seniors to contribute to their success as volunteer helpers, as well as recipients.   And each and every program contributes to the overall well-being of seniors in our community by paying attention to ALL aspects of their lives:  health, safety, nutrition, intellectual stimulation, socialization, spirituality and support in hard times. 

We at JFCS are so proud of our Senior Service.  We want to add a 4th C to the list of themes: 

Compassion:  This is the watchword for everything that we do at JFCS in working with our Seniors, our volunteers, and everyone who comes in contact with our Agency.  We  continue to look for new and exciting ways to further the goals of Older Americans Month not just in May but throughout the year.  

Dementia Caregiver Connection Group –Pilot Program of JFCS at Artis Senior Living

For most couples, going out for a meal or an activity is a normal part of life. But when one of the members of the couple is memory-impaired (with Dementia, Alzheimer’s or other conditions, possibly combined with movement restrictions ), even the simplest activity is filled with anxiety and difficulty.  Will my spouse act appropriately with others?  What can I do to keep his/her attention focused?  How can I enjoy my time out when I am so worried about my spouse’s behavior?  Are there others in the community facing the same issues that I am?

JFCS has created a unique program to help caregivers and their spouses with memory impairments to enjoy time out together, combining a caregiver support group with an engaging activity for the care recipient. We piloted the program, called the Dementia Caregiver Connection Group,  for four weeks in May, working with Artis Senior Living, a state-of-the-art  memory care facility in Princeton Junction.

The morning began with coffee, cake and time to schmooze. Then the caregivers and their loved ones separated for the next hour.  I facilitated the caregiver support group where participants could speak openly about the issues that they face on a daily basis and receive suggestions for techniques and resources.  In a very short time, the group members bonded and honest conversations abounded.  It did not seem to matter that each member’s situation was unique—what mattered was that they could come together to share feelings and experiences, with love and support and without judgment.  There is something magical in a support group that is hard to describe—the participants experience such power in being accepted for who they are and what they are experiencing.

While the caregivers met, Artis’ art therapist worked with the care recipients on a variety of projects (woodworking, gardening, art, etc.) After the first session, the art therapist understood the needs and interests of each participant and tailored the activities to their particular personalities.  The spouses were engaged and did not seek out their caregiver spouses.

At the end of the hour, the couples reunited for a delicious lunch and time for socialization. Relationships formed; emails exchanged; experiences shared; isolation banished.   All care recipients returned despite some initial hesitation. They surprised their spouses with positive attitudes, memories from past weeks (in some cases) and a general sense of well-being after each session.

Many thanks to our partners at Artis who provided their caring, experienced staff, beautiful surroundings and delicious food.  We look forward to the start of another four-week group beginning on Thursday, September 6th.  For questions and more information, please contact Beverly Rubman at BeverlyR@jfcsonline.org or 609-987-8100 ext. 151.

 

 

The Reality Is..

This week, the world was shocked by news of two high profile suicides; yet the reality is there were many more lives that have been lost to suicide.

The reality is, in NJ, one person dies by suicide

every 11 hours.

The reality is, those who have been lost are fashion designers and young dreamers, awarding winning chefs and parents, isolated seniors, disconnected neighbors, your loved ones.

The reality is, 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness BUT only 40% receive the help they need.

The reality is, there is a stigma that holds people back from speaking out when they are suffering. The reality is, there is a lack of general understanding of the signs, the symptoms and the most beneficial ways to help a loved one struggling with this disease.

The reality is, the conversation cannot stop today.

Together, we can keep the conversation going on mental illness, we can fight the stigma, we can reach out to those around us we see in crisis, we can recognize we are not alone. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, contact the Capital Health Crisis Center at 609-396-4357 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.

 

If you are struggling to cope with anxiety or depression,

JFCS is here for you at 609-987-8100.

For More Facts and Information:

National Institute od Mental Health  –  National Alliance on Mental Illness  –  National Suicide Prevention Lifeline  –  Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

JFCS Celebrates Older Americans Month 2018

Across the country, older Americans are taking part in activities that promote wellness and social connection. They are sharing their wisdom and experience with future generations, and they are giving back to enrich their communities. They’re working and volunteering, mentoring and learning, leading and engaging.

For 55 years, Older Americans Month (OAM) has been observed to recognize older Americans and their contributions to out communities. Led by the Administration for Community Living’s Administration on Aging, every May offers opportunity to hear from, support, and celebrate our nation’s elders.

This year’s OAM theme, “Engage at Every Age,” emphasizes that importance of being active and involved, no matter where or when you are in life. You are never too old (or too young) to participate in activities that can enrich your physical, mental, and emotion well-being. Since 1937, Jewish Family & Children’s Service has been dedicated to helping older adults.

And, join ACL and AoA in celebrating by participating in the Selfie Challenge! They want to see how you’re engaging. Simply take a selfie (or have someone take your photo) and tweet it with the hashtag #OAM18. Visit the official OAM website by clicking here.

 

 

 

What will the New Year bring?

What will the New Year bring…? 

As we reflect on the past year, we thank you for bringing your commitment and your compassion to JFCS allowing us to serve so many in need in our community.

 

In the year to come, JFCS will continue to bring hope for those working to overcome personal and mental health crises.

 

We will bring health to families struggling against difficult circumstances, fighting hunger and malnutrition.

 

And we will bring happiness to senior adults who wish to enjoy their golden years.

 

We invite you to join us in this mission once more in 2018.

 

Wishing you all hope, health, happiness in the coming year!

 

Michelle Napell, Executive Director

Hanukkah Message to All

To Margery…you are the light of the season.

Each year, we celebrate the festival of lights while the days around us turn darker and the nights grow long. Your year end gift will brighten the lives of an individuals who may be facing darkness, uncertainty and challenges that we cannot imagine.

Margery is a true matriarch. A mother of three adult children and grandmother to triplets, aged 7, she serves as the main caregiver to the entire family. While Margery is well into her 70s she is still working to support her family though she hopes to retire to dedicate more time to caring for her grandchildren.

Margery visits the pantry regularly to help keep her family fed, she welcomes the gifts she can provide the little ones through the LIGHTS toy & gift card donation program, she relies on donations of winter coats, hats & scarves to keep her family warm throughout the season.

Margery and many others count on you. Please help us help them.

Donate today to spread the light.

JFCS Takes Action to Fight Hunger!

September is Hunger Action Month and team JFCS continues our dedication to serving those in our community facing hunger and food insecurity.

Why do we need to act? 

Hunger affects our neighbors, right here in Mercer County. The food insecurity rate for Mercer ranks among the top 10 in our state with tens of thousands of residents facing this burden.  On average in New Jersey, 1 in 8 families live with the reality of hunger.

In Mercer County, our changing demographics see a growing aging population among our community.  Seniors are often more vulnerable to food insecurity and hunger due to limited income and restricted access to healthy foods. According to the National Council on Aging, nearly 9 million older adults feel they cannot afford nutritious food and 25% reduce meal sizes or skip meals to make their supplies last.

Hunger is here, in our backyard.

Who is hungry?

In the past year, JFCS has served over 300 individuals through the Yvette Sarah Clayman Kosher Food Pantry.  Our clients include individuals like…

Naomi, a single mother of two who was unexpectedly laid off, relies on the pantry to feed her young children.  With savings quickly going towards rent and everyday expenses, the pantry allows her to keep food on the table while searching for a new job.

Ed, who is 70 years old and lives alone with no family in the area, turns to the food pantry for nutritional options.  As a senior, Ed faces dietary restrictions due to regular medications he must take. Our pantry gives him the healthy options and nutritious foods he needs.

Mark & Lauren, a couple in their mid-40s, who have had to take in Lauren’s sister and nephews when her sister became too ill to care for the children alone, are struggling to feed everyone under their roof.  With three teenagers of their own, one who is gluten-intolerant, keeping nutritious meals on the table was already a challenge.  With three more individuals to feed and Lauren reducing her work hours to help care for her sister, the couple depends on the resources at our pantry to sustain their family.

How do we help?

JFCS continues to keep the shelves of our pantry stocked and develop innovative services & programs to serve our unique community best…

Such as the personalized case management with staff working with clients to develop budgeting skills and increase knowledge of available resources such as SNAP and other benefits.

Or the benefit of a registered dietitian on-site, working with each pantry patron to ensure individual nutritional needs are met.

And innovative programming including Healthy@Home, which coordinates the services of the pantry registered dietitian and senior care managers to combine nutrition education and delivery of healthy and nutritious foods to low-income, homebound older adults.

And with the help of YOU.

Dedicated volunteers and corporate groups shop for and stock our pantry monthly.

Generous donors contribute dollars & goods so our pantry can stay open.

We cannot fight hunger without you.

Make a contribution online: www.jfcsonline.org/donate or call us to find out how you can volunteer your time at the pantry: 609-987-8100.

References:

https://tabletotable.org/feeding-nj/

http://www.endhungernj.org/about-nj-hunger

http://www.feedingamerica.org/hunger-in-america/our-research/map-the-meal-gap/2014/NJ_AllCounties_CDs_MMG_2014.pdf

Don’t Let Back to School Be Back to Bullying

Don’t Let Back to School Be Back to Bullying.

For many children, the anxiety of a new school year is not of nervous excitement but severe concern of potential bullying.

We live in a society where bullying is prevalent among authority figures, adults in the workplace, and even at home.  Helping your child identify what bullying is, informing them of the best actions to take when facing a bully or witnessing the behavior, and acting as a role model can mitigate the impact of bullying.

What Does Bullying Look Like?

There are many different types of bullying; physical, verbal, psychological, cyberbullying, sexting, sexual, and/or targeting others based on their religion, ethnicity, race and/or sexual orientation.  Bullying is NOT the occasional teasing or name calling, bullies engage in frequent, ongoing attacks aimed at controlling, humiliating, and hurting others.  Any child can be bullied, and many children who have been victimized by others, become bullies in turn.

You’re No Bully, But Are You a Bystander?

Bullies and victims are the minority in comparison to the bystander.  A bystander watches bullying, both face-to-face incidents and cyberbullying, and does not intervene to deescalate the situation, help the victim or report the behavior.  Bystanders enable bullying by sending a message that they accept the behavior.

What Can I Do To Send The Right Message To My Children?

  • Be a role model. Be mindful of how you act towards others including peers, other parents, co-workers, family members and spouses. Children pick up on the behaviors of those around them.
  • Do not tolerate bullying in your family. Teach siblings positive ways to manage difficult emotions so they do not lash out at each other.
  • Do not minimize bullying. If your child reports an incident of bullying, do not brush it aside, whether they are the victim, the bystander, or the bully.  Teach children how bullying impacts the feelings and self-worth of victims.
  • Be anti-bully. Teach your children to discourage the bully. Educate your children in safe methods of supporting the victim without engaging the bully or giving into their attention.  Encourage your child to reach out to victims and have others do the same.
  • Be informed on resources. As a parent, understand what your child’s school is required to do in bullying situations and advocate for your child.

If you or your child is struggling with the effects of bullying or you are concerned your child is exhibiting bully behavior, JFCS can help.  JFCS offers confidential counseling for individuals and families for a range of concerns including anxiety, self-esteem, coping and more. Contact our offices at 609-987-8100.

Where Can You Learn More?

http://www.state.nj.us/education/students/safety/behavior/hib/

http://www.state.nj.us/education/students/safety/behavior/hib/ParentGuide.pdf

https://bullies2buddies.com/resources/the-new-jersey-bullies-to-buddies-training-center/

https://www.njea.org/issues/anti-bullying/