We’re proud to welcome you to the newly expanded Ark in West Rogers Park and in Northbrook.

Managing Mental Health in Times
of Crisis

Many of us are grappling with the events in Israel and increasing anti-Semitism in our local communities. Dr. Susan Rosenthal, M.D., has been part of The Ark’s social service team for eight years and brings her extensive expertise and deep commitment to each patient she treats. In these times of uncertainty, Dr. Rosenthal offers a few words of insight to help navigate the emotional impact:

  • Find Your Agency: A major source of distress is feeling helpless, which can manifest as anger, depression, or anxiety. Whenever a person can find a sense of agency—whether it’s writing letters to soldiers, volunteering, or engaging in your spiritual community—it can be a powerful intervention. Find small ways to take action.
  • Limit News Exposure: Figure out what amount of news is right for you, so you feel informed but not overwhelmed. Consider checking twice a day, but not before bed to promote better sleep.
  • Practice Mindfulness: Find ways to ground yourself in the moment—look at a piece of artwork, listen to something beautiful, or focus on a particular scent or taste. These simple acts can bring you back to the present and help manage overwhelming feelings.
  • Prioritize Self-Care: Maintaining basic routines for eating, sleeping, and exercise can offer a sense of structure and normalcy during times of stress.
  • Seek Support When Needed: Seeking help, be it professional or from one’s personal support system, is a sign of strength, and it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in feelings of distress and uncertainty. These are thoughts we all share as a community and a nation.

About Dr. Susan Rosenthal: A graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago School of Medicine, Dr. Rosenthal completed her psychiatry residency at the Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency Training Program in Boston. Her experience spans over two decades, including her role as Medical Director of an outpatient clinic at Northwestern Medicine. She now balances her private practice with her work at The Ark.