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Five Oakland County teens, members of UMatter, a Friendship Circle-
based program focused on teen mental health, got up in front of a crowd
and shared their stories in a program called “One Thing I Wish You Knew”
March 21.
They shared stories of how they overcame challenges like verbal
abuse by an alcoholic parent, battling an eating disorder, struggling with
undiagnosed dyslexia and dealing with severe depression.
“The purpose of this event is to spark a conversation that needs to
be happening,” said Rabbi Yarden Blumstein, teen director at Friendship
Circle in West Bloomfield. “Teens, and their families, are currently
sitting through a crisis in isolation and thinking they’re the only ones
going through that. We need to come together and share our stories
of challenge, strength and hope in an effort to build a community of
resilience. This all starts with a conversation.”
Julia Abramson, a member of UMatter, said, “We hope people walk out
of here saying, ‘Wow, these kids got up in front of a crowd to speak about
their problems. I should be able to tell my parents that I’m struggling, too.
“Many people think that struggling with mental issues is something to be
ashamed of, but it’s not,” she added. “Everyone should have the chance
to get help.” •

To see a video about “One Thing I Wish You Knew,” head to thejewishnews.com.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA POLK

Introducing

teen

in
the

In times of uncertainty or change,
help is just a call or click away.

n

jews & d

tlight o
spo

Stella Brown of Birmingham

Anna Weinbaum, Lillian Beavers and Alexis Morton,
all of Bloomfield Hills

Lilian Beavers gets a hug.

Julia Abramson, Adam Ben-Moche, Amanda Pattah
and Julia Gorny, all of West Bloomfield

Randee Black of Jewish Family
Service discusses its resources.

Stella Brown of Birmingham, Jessica Goldberg of
Farmington and Molly Williams of White Lake

jn

April 5 • 2018

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