Prevention Through Ahava {PTA}

As we approach Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, it’s important to reflect not only on the forgiveness we seek from others but also on the grudges we may be holding onto ourselves. Holding onto resentment is like carrying an emotional weight that prevents us from moving forward, both spiritually and mentally. In the words of many leading psychologists, including Dr. Robert Enright and Dr. Frederic Luskin, forgiveness begins with acceptance—acknowledging the pain, processing it, and then releasing it for our own emotional health. This Yom Kippur, let’s focus on the power of forgiveness. Whether we are the ones seeking forgiveness or offering it, the journey begins with acceptance—of our emotions, our hurt, and the humanity of others. Let go of grudges, and embrace the peace that comes from emotional freedom. Wishing everyone a meaningful and peaceful Yom Kippur.

Understanding Trauma: It’s Rooted in Childhood but Healing is Always Possible At Prevention Through Ahava (PTA), we believe that understanding the origins of trauma is the first step to healing. Groundbreaking work by trauma experts like Dr. Gabor Maté and Dr. Bessel van der Kolk shows us that trauma often stems from childhood experiences. It’s not just the events of today that affect us, but the unprocessed pain from our past that shapes how we respond to life’s challenges. The good news? Trauma is 100% healable. With the right support, we can rewire our brains, release old emotional wounds, and live a life of freedom. Through self-awareness and compassion, we can break free from the patterns of our past and create a brighter, more hopeful future. At PTA, we’re committed to fostering environments that promote healing and growth. By focusing on prevention through love and support, we can ensure that every child feels seen, heard, and safe. Together, we can build stronger communities—one healed heart at a time. #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaHealing #ChildhoodTrauma #PreventionThroughAhava #HealingJourney #EmotionalWellbeing #GaborMate #

In a world that often encourages us to “stay positive” and avoid uncomfortable emotions, we sometimes forget the incredible strength that lies in simply allowing ourselves to feel. Whether it’s joy, sadness, fear, or anger—each emotion has a purpose, and embracing them can lead to deeper healing, growth, and connection. Inspired by Inside Out, my latest essay explores how giving ourselves permission to experience the full spectrum of emotions is the key to emotional health and resilience. Just as the character Sadness in the movie helps Riley process her struggles, our own acceptance of difficult feelings allows us to find clarity and balance in challenging times. ?? By letting ourselves feel, we build stronger connections with ourselves and those around us. Take a moment today to honor what you feel—it’s a step towards greater emotional wholeness. Check out the full essay on how this concept can help us grow, thrive, and live more authentically. ?? #EmotionalHealth #PermissionToFeel #InsideOut #Resilience #PTAPreventionThroughAhava #MentalWellbeing

Cooking up a storm! Our first PSA video highlighting the impact certain environments can have on someone #InnerSelf #InnerChild

As we reflect on Tisha B’Av, a day marked by profound loss and yearning, it’s essential to recognize that it’s okay to not be okay. This day is meant for us to feel the pain, to cry, and to connect with our inner selves and with Hashem. But as we process this grief, we must also remember the importance of moving through it, finding hope and resilience on the other side. However, for many teenagers today, this connection feels out of reach. They struggle with emotions and a sense of belonging, yearning for a home where they can feel loved and understood. On a day like Tisha B’Av, their emotional struggles might feel even more acute, as they, too, search for that deeper connection—both with others and with themselves. As we navigate our own pain and healing, let’s also extend our empathy to the younger generation. They need our support, understanding, and love more than ever. Let’s create spaces where they can feel safe to express their emotions and find their way back to connection and purpose. After all, it’s through love and community that we can truly begin to heal.