Mental health and mental health care for Jews in the Diaspora, with particular reference to the U.K.

Résumé

BACKGROUND: Suggestions are examined with regard to psychiatric epidemiology among Jews: raised prevalence of depressive disorder in men, low prevalence of alcohol related disorders and suicide, higher prevalences of obsessive-compulsive disorder and psychosis.METHODS: Demography, psychiatric epidemiology, service provision, use and barriers to use are described in the U.K., with brief comparison with other Diaspora communities.RESULTS: Prevalence of depression may be as high among Jewish men as among women. Prevalence of anxiety, alcohol abuse and suicide may be low by world standards. No clear picture emerges regarding oCD, psychosis and other disorders. Barriers to treatment seeking include stigma and mistrust.LIMITATIONS: there are inadequate data with respect to many disorders, service uptake, and the effects of religiosity.CONCLUSIONS: there is scope for more research on a range of issues, including psychosis, eating and childhood disorders, anxiety and depression, and service use. Risk factors include anti-Semitism. Protective factors include family stability, social support and religion.