The Observer: Thank you so much for speaking with us, Rabbi Helfgot. Could you give us some background information about who you are, what you do, where you teach, etc? Rabbi Nathaniel Helfgot: I currently serve as Chair of the Departments of Tanakh and Jewish Thought at Yeshivat Chovevei Torah Rabbinical School as well as coordinate YCT's community events such as the popular Yemei Iyun on Tanakh since 2002 ( a program which I am delighted has been copied and adopted by the students and administration at YU the last two years).
Dr. David Pelcovitz is a Professor of Education and Psychology at Yeshiva University and is Special Assistant to President Richard Joel. He is a nationally renowned authority on parenting, adolescent development, family trauma, child abuse, and at-risk youth.
The struggle with depression has devastating effects on Americans. Depression itself is a symptom of many psychiatric diseases, the most common of which is major depression. It affects 21 million Americans any given year, and is among the most under-diagnosed diseases; ignorance and denial that the disease exists is widespread.
The history of mental illness is a frightening saga of suspicion and hate, suspended through centuries where its root and its effects were deeply misunderstood. Being that witch-hunts, restraints, and total confinement were common responses, mental illness was a label no one wished to receive.
When it comes to depression or other mental illnesses, it may be easy to say they exist, but harder to relate them to one's own community. In the interest of relating depression and mental illness to the Yeshiva University undergraduate community, The Observer sent out a poll to the student body inquiring as to their experiences with depression or other mental illness.
There are several organizations geared specifically to assisting Orthodox Jews deal with mental health issues. Sometimes, treating an Orthodox patient requires the mental health professional to be sensitive to Orthodox Jewish cultural concerns, such as family purity, the matchmaking process, Shabbat and festivals.
Thirty-one women are ushered to the forefront of the stage by thunderous applause; an invigorated audience springs from their seats into a standing ovation. The ear-to-ear smiles, celebratory laughter, and tears of accomplishment overwhelm the sold out theater, the audience a reflection of their exalted performers.
In a season rife with holly jolly jingles, Santa hats and the promise of being 'the most wonderful time of the year,' there's no denying that holiday spirit gets cramped for ample Chanukah attention. Thanks to the mastermind Erez Handler, better known as DJ Handler, the Sephardic Music Festival has given Jews and non-Jews alike an excuse to kick back, celebrate and listen to quality music in New York City.
Dr. Lauren Harburger, a recent addition to the Stern College for Women (SCW) Psychology Department, exudes enthusiasm about the college and its students. A Manhattan native, Dr. Harburger chose to return to the city because she was interested in teaching at an all-women's college.