Dear Rabbi Jacobson,

What is happening when my friendships begin to fray? My friendships start off easy, yet don't seem to survive for long. I know I have attachment issues with my mother and I am constantly searching for connection with my friends to fill the void. And yet...while my friendships tend to start off strong, I’ve been noticing a recurring pattern where my friends start to distance themselves and become more avoidant. What is causing my friendships to unravel and how can I finally find a friend who will truly be a friend for me?

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Attending a class reunion can stir up unexpected emotions. Surrounded by familiar faces and impressive accomplishments, it’s easy to compare yourself to your classmates and wonder whether different choices might have led to a “better” life. Rabbi Jacobson assures the questioner that Hashem is the one in control, and that we are all meant to be precisely where we are at this very moment! Rather than compare, it is important to encourage and support our friends and learn from their accomplishments, especially related to spiritual matters. Go enjoy your next class reunion:)

Thank you for listening! To submit a question, please email hello@whathappening.ca.

The Jewish world is recognizing the value of wellness and there are many supports that now exist for emotional and psychological well-being. In this episode we question if the focus on mental health can unintentionally encourage over-pathologizing normal challenges and take away opportunities for building resilience. Are we damaging ourselves and our children with our obsession with mental health? Could an overreliance on therapy and diagnoses be limiting our ability to deal with stress? Listen to this episode to find out what Torah and Chassidus have to say about this very important question!

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