Mental health matters. The past year has been tremendously challenging. That takes a toll. As we enter spring, the weather starts to get warmer, the flowers begin to bloom, and as the vaccination rate continues to rise, we can rejoice that families and friends are finally becoming able to see each other in person. If you have not yet gotten a vaccine, every adult over 16 in Michigan will become eligible on Monday. There is a lot that can bring us hope.

And we are also experiencing a rapid rise of COVID infections in Michigan. We are not yet out of the woods (or the wilderness). And for those experiencing depression or other mental illnesses, daffodils and warmer days are certainly nice, but not a cure.

Please take good care of yourselves and get help if you need it. The Jewish obligation to place saving a life above all else can apply to you, too. And mental health is a part of keeping yourself alive. Please wear a mask, please get a vaccine, and if you are feeling depressed, please reach out to me, a friend, a family member, or a medical professional. Because your mental health matters, your physical health matters, and you matter.