Mental problems

Freely translated and adapted

25 Sivan, 5717 (1957)

In reply to your letter with the attached pidyon nefesh (entreaty)- which will be read at a propitious time at the holy resting place of my father-in-law, the Rebbe, of blessed memory - in which you write that you are at a total loss as to how you should act with regard to your child:
There is the known, astute advice of our Sages, of blessed memory, that there are three with whom one should conduct himself with a "right hand that draws close - a child ...."
In your current situation, you should seek the advice of a mental health doctor, since oftentimes - and possibly most times - the conduct that you describe in your letter is a result of mental strain and the like. Quite often a doctor can be quite successful in alleviating the matter.
In any event, in light of what you described to me, [it seems that] banishing your son from the house can lead to an even further deterioration of the situation and not be beneficial at all, as can readily be understood.
May G-d will it that you soon be able to convey glad tidings to me with regard to the above.
It is self-evident and patently obvious that the more you and your family increase your observance of Torah and mitzvos (commandments), the more this will increase G-d's blessings in general and the fulfillment of your specific requests in particular.

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21 Shevat, 5714 (1954)

You write about the young man [and his mental problems]:
You should seek the advice of medical specialists who focus on this area, for to our great misfortune the events that transpired with this young man have become all too common during the past few years.
Consequently, the doctors in this field already know how to deal with it, what medications to give, and also how one should conduct him or herself with such individuals after they return home.
One of the most important things is that he should not have spare time [with nothing to do], but should be occupied with matters that do not require intense concentration. It would also be beneficial for him to do some physical labor, at least part time.
This individual should also have his bitachon [faith] in G-d strengthened and should endeavor as much as possible to completely cease thinking about his past. ...

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12 Adar, 5718 [1958]

I received your letter in which you write about the [mental] problem of your daughter, Rivkah.
Judging by your description of her condition, it is somewhat surprising to me that she sees the doctor only once a month. However, I assume that you are in closer contact with him.
As for the question of making the trip to New York with your daughter to see me, I do not think it is advisable at this time, for it is impossible to foresee what effect this round trip might have on your daughter.
However, what I do consider advisable - and it is possible to arrange this without too much difficulty - is that your daughter have a change of environment for a couple of weeks. This would have a beneficial effect on her, inasmuch as she would not be in contact with the people in whose presence she feels so sensitive, etc.
Needless to say, every additional effort on the part of all the members of the family in matters of Torah and mitzvos would bring additional blessings to the whole family and particularly to your daughter, who is most in need of them.

From Healthy in Body, Mind and Spirit, Vol III, compiled by Rabbi Sholom B. Wineberg, published by Sichos in English