A series of research studies – known as the JPSYCH program - at Bowling GreenStateUniversity in Ohio reveals that traditional religious beliefs and practices are protective against anxiety and depression among Jews. Spearheaded by David H. Rosmarin and Kenneth Pargament in Bowling Green’s psychology department, the studies are amongst the first to examine the impact of Judaism on psychological health.

Rosmarin and Pargament's research indicates that frequency of prayer, synagogue attendance, and religious study, and positive beliefs about the Divine are associated with markedly decreased levels of anxiety and with higher levels of happiness.  “In this day and age, there is a lot to worry about,” Rosmarin notes, "and the practice of religion may help people to maintain equanimity and perspective.”