^{By Beth Fishman PhD, Program Manager, JCFS Chicago Addiction Services}
The Jewish community has come a long way in acknowledging addiction, supporting those who have struggled and uplifting those in recovery. JCFS Chicago and the Chicago Board of Rabbis invite you to continue this forward momentum during a special Shabbat and during the High Holiday period to lift the veil of shame and secrecy of addiction, celebrate recovery and extend support to our community.

What is addiction? Addiction has been defined as a chronic, relapsing, potentially fatal, brain-based disease. The disease of addiction has biological, psychological, sociological, and spiritual elements and can impact all parts of one’s life. Addiction is a complex disease with biological, psychological, social and spiritual components that can affect every aspect of a person's life. Addiction has many origins and comes in many forms, including alcohol and other drugs as well as behaviors such as gambling, gaming, exercise, work, pornography, spending and many internet-related activities. Some have characterized addiction as “an equal opportunity destroyer” because it can affect anyone, including family and community members.

What is recovery? While abstinence or sobriety can be defined as ending one’s engagement with an addictive drug or behavior, recovery is much broader. Being in recovery means healing one’s life across all elements that addiction can damage. Foremost among these are one’s relationships - with loved ones, with oneself and with the Holy.

What is Serenity Shabbat? Serenity Shabbat is a time to honor the struggles of addiction and celebrate the blessings of recovery on Shabbat Naso (June 6 & 7/10 & 11 Sivan) or on another Shabbat of your choice. During this time, the Torah teaches that one path to closeness with God involves abstaining from mood-altering substances and behaviors. Our Serenity Shabbat Guides offer individuals, families and congregations many possible observances to honor the struggles of those facing addiction and celebrate the blessings of addiction recovery.

JCFS Chicago addiction services is eager to assist you in crafting personalized Serenity Shabbat observances for yourself, your family and your community. Please contact Beth Fishman for more information.