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Spotlight on Rabbi Shalom Hammer: Transforming Tragedy into Advocacy for Mental Health

I recently had the privilege of meeting Rabbi Shalom Hammer at his home in Bet Shemesh. This post delves into his story, his work, and the incredible way he has dedicated his life to supporting those in need of mental health resources and education.


A Personal Tragedy


Rabbi Shalom Hammer, who has lived in Israel for 34 years, is a dedicated educator, public speaker, and author. His life took a heart-wrenching turn when his daughter, Gila, died by suicide at the age of 18. This devastating event highlighted the gaps in the mental health care system and the urgent need for better resources, education, and support. Rabbi Hammer believes that his daughter might still be alive had he known earlier what he knows now. Clear information and adequate support could have potentially saved Gila’s life.


This realization fueled his commitment to prevent others from experiencing similar tragedies. Rabbi Hammer founded an organization focused on mental health education and suicide prevention called Gila’s Way. The organization works to connect individuals with the appropriate mental health resources, providing a lifeline for those in distress and personalized guidance to individuals navigating their mental health journeys. Rabbi Hammer aims to direct individuals to trusted and vetted therapists and psychiatrists. He emphasizes the importance of personal recommendations and firsthand experiences over online reviews, which can often be misleading.


Combating Stigma and Providing Psychoeducation


Rabbi Hammer’s work goes beyond connecting individuals with therapists. He is deeply involved in psychoeducation, aiming to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues. He frequently gives lectures and conducts seminars, including training sessions for rabbis, community leaders, mental health professionals and adolescents, particularly in pre-military academies. These educational efforts are crucial in fostering a more informed and compassionate community.


One of the significant challenges Rabbi Hammer faces is the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health. He recounts stories of individuals hesitating to seek help due to fear of judgment or lack of understanding about available resources. By offering psychoeducation and open discussions about mental health, Rabbi Hammer is working to dismantle these barriers and encourage more people to seek the help they need.


Rabbi Hammer has authored ten books, including the Gila Spreads Joy series of children’s books, which were written in memory of Gila. 


Collaborations and Future Goals


Rabbi Hammer is continually seeking to build partnerships and collaborations to enhance his organization’s impact. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with other mental health professionals, organizations, and philanthropists to create a comprehensive support network. His goal is to provide better mental health care, reduce the incidence of suicide, and promote overall well-being within the community.


Rabbi Hammer’s commitment extends to his roles within the military and the broader community. He served in the Rabbinate Division of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) as well as a senior lecturer for Mahane Meshutaf and the Jewish Identity branch of IDF, which motivates troops in all divisions and teaches soldiers about Jewish identity and Jewish heritage. In addition, Rabbi Hammer is the founder of Makom Meshutaf, an organization which promotes a new Judaism based on tolerance and unity between all denominations in Israel.


Conclusion


Rabbi Shalom Hammer’s journey which began from personal tragedy is a testament to his resilience and dedication. His commitment to education, resource connection, and stigma reduction is paving the way for a more informed and supportive community. Through his work, he is making a profound difference in the lives of individuals and families struggling with mental health issues. His story is also a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have in transforming lives and fostering mental health awareness. His work, rooted in personal loss and driven by a passion for change, inspires and supports countless individuals on their journey to wellbeing.



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