Ending Stigmas

Jewish Addiction Awareness Network (JAAN)
Featuring: Marla Kaufman, Founder/Executive Director

Today’s topic is much more serious than most of the other topics that we deal with on this podcast. At the same time it may be one of the most important topics. We are grateful to amplify the voice of JAAN and its founder Marla Kaufman. The important work that they are doing to call attention to the devastating endemic of addiction is certain to save lives. I am grateful that JAAN is working to eliminate the stigma for those suffering from the disease of addiction and their loved ones.

From JAAN’s website: Across the U.S. and Canada, millions of individuals grapple every day with addiction. This disease is having a devastating impact on lives, families, and entire communities — including Jewish communities.

While battling addiction, Jewish individuals and families must also confront the stigma and shame associated with a disease so misunderstood. The myth that Jews do not suffer from addiction as much as other groups often leaves families and individuals feeling isolated and disconnected from their friends, congregations, and communities. We’re changing that.

Jewish Addiction Awareness Network (JAAN) connects families and individuals to information, support, tools, and Jewish perspectives to help them face addiction and work toward recovery. Through partnerships, community-building, outreach, and education, we are helping Jewish communities better understand substance use disorder, as well as the power of Jewish traditions and wisdom in providing comfort and guidance.

If you or someone you love is living with addiction or in recovery, know this: You are not alone. And we will no longer be silent.

JAAN’s Mission:To increase understanding of the disease of addiction and decrease stigma by connecting individuals, families, and professionals across the Jewish spectrum in order to explore the intersection of Judaism and recovery, exchange resources, and support those in crisis.
Recommended Reading

A Common Struggle: A Personal Journey Through the Past and Future of Mental Illness and Addiction by Patrick Kennedy and Stephen Fried (Find it here on Amazon.)

Recovery, the 12 steps and Jewish Spirituality: Reclaiming Hope, Courage & Wholeness by Paul Steinberg (Find it here on Amazon.)

 JAAN's website has detailed pages with Jewish and General Resources for those struggling with addictions and their loved ones. For a complete list of Jewish resources please visit JAAN’S Jewish resource page.  For a expanded list of general resources please visit JAAN’s general resource page.

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