March is Social Work Month, a time to recognize and appreciate the tireless efforts of social workers who dedicate themselves to making a positive impact in the lives of individuals and families. To commemorate this month, some of the incredible social workers at JCFS Chicago shared their motivation and passion for their careers.

Each person has a unique story, special circumstances and has their own dreams. Amanda Blum* came to JCFS Chicago Financial Counseling looking for both financial guidance and assistance.

Your diet affects everything in your body, including energy, serotonin production, and a slew of non-depression related things which might exacerbate your moods.

For some, shortened days and fewer hours of sunshine mean less energy, loss of appetite, and feelings of despair or hopelessness. “Seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that’s related to a change in seasons.

In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a lot of uncertainty and confusion as the situation dragged on. Many businesses shuttered, drying up steady paychecks and leading to widespread job loss. With significant support from JUF, the JCFS Financial Assistance Counseling program provided emergency funds to those that needed it.

Opening up about mental health issues can be a scary thing; it requires showing vulnerability to other people who might react unexpectedly. However, it becomes easier for someone to be honest about their issues when a friend or family member reaches out and checks in on them.

Telehealth services have reduced some of the barriers to receiving mental health counseling using digital technology. Teletherapy (also known as telehealth counseling) is especially helpful to clients that do not have the ability to visit with their mental health counselor in person.

Each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. During May, JCFS Chicago joins the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in the national movement to raise awareness about mental health.

When Maria and her family contracted Covid-19, her husband Diego had the severest symptoms and spent four days in the hospital. Maria struggled to find help, but with the help of a JCFS Financial Assistant, Maria applied for disability support because of her heart condition.

Robert* used to live in an apartment but had to move to an extended-stay hotel when his landlord did not want to renew the lease. He was urged to reach out to a homelessness prevention agency.