Navigating Mental Illness: Parents Stories

In this powerful episode of 'Navigating Mental Illness: Parent Stories,' hosts Bill Nowicki and Laura Nowicki welcome Kim, a resilient mother who shares her emotional and challenging journey navigating her daughter's bipolar disorder. Kim recounts her struggles from initial denial to becoming a fierce advocate for her daughter's health, detailing episodes of crisis, multiple hospitalizations, and exploring alternative treatments. As she discusses setting firm boundaries and the importance of self-care, listeners will gain invaluable insights into the complexities of mental health within a family dynamic. Join us for an inspiring conversation about love, resilience, and the ongoing fight for mental wellness. 00:00 AI Edits from NMIPS Kim 01:41 Kim's Background and Career 02:17 Family and Personal Life 04:07 Challenges with Mental Health 05:34 Kim's daughter's Struggles and Episodes 07:50 Seeking Help and Rehabilitation 15:02 Recent Developments and Reflections 22:02 A Mother's Unwavering Love 22:30 The Struggles of Long-Distance Support 23:53 Setting Boundaries for Healing 28:15 The Importance of Self-Care 38:04 Finding New Beginnings 42:14 Reflections and Future Plans

In this episode, Bill interviews therapist Amber about the challenges parents face when their child is struggling with mental illness. Amber discusses the importance of parents focusing on processing their own emotions and reactions, rather than solely trying to fix the child's problems. She notes how children can resent parents for not giving them space to work through challenges, and how siblings often take on roles to minimize stress on the family. Amber also distinguishes between supporting versus enabling a child, and highlights how vulnerability and acknowledging one's own challenges in parenting can strengthen the parent-child relationship. Throughout the conversation, Amber provides compassionate insights on navigating this difficult family dynamic.   Keywords: parenting, mental illness, family dynamics, emotional processing, support, enabling, vulnerability, parent-child relationship

In today's episode, Terry shares a deeply personal and emotional journey of navigating her son's mental illnesses, including anxiety and bipolar disorder. Join us as she recounts the challenges of seeking help, the impact on family relationships, her learnings, and the small victories that have facilitated a better understanding and approach towards mental illness. This heartfelt discussion provides invaluable insights for those walking a similar path or those who want to understand more about supporting loved ones with mental health issues. **Key Topics Covered:** - Early Signs and Struggles (00:00:00) - Seeking Help and Diagnosis Challenges (00:06:09) - Impact on Family Dynamics (00:15:53) - Coping Mechanisms and Strategies (00:24:59) - Setting Boundaries and Finding Support (00:32:07) #### Keywords - Mental Illness - Bipolar Disorder - Anxiety in Children - Family Dynamics - Mental Health Support - Parenting Challenges - Seeking Help for Mental Illness - Coping with Mental Illness - Setting Boundaries - Mental Health Education - Navigating Bipolar Disorder - Personal Mental Health Stories - Family Support Systems

In this heart-wrenching yet inspiring episode of "Navigating Mental Illness: Parents Stories," Bill sits down with Celeste, a mother from Bill's home state of New Jersey, who shares her journey navigating the complexities of her daughter's multiple mental health conditions, including OCD, severe anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD.  Celeste opens up about her daughter's early childhood, the struggles they faced following a severe family incident, and the subsequent years of seeking proper treatment and care. From the initial diagnosis to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and a significant mental breakdown following a family tragedy, Celeste provides invaluable insights into managing a child's mental illness. She discusses the therapeutic approaches they've tried, the challenges of balancing her daughter's needs with her own, and the importance of self-care and having a support system. With moments of triumph like her daughter getting her driver's license and experiencing healing environments, Celeste’s story is a testament to resilience and the enduring hope for a better future. #### Keywords: - mental illness in children  - OCD in adolescents - parenting with a mentally ill child  - obsessive-compulsive disorder  - navigating mental illness  - severe anxiety in children  - PTSD and parenting  - ADHD in adolescents  - mental health treatment programs - therapy for OCD  - COVID-19 mental health impact  - parenting podcast  - mental health journey  - supporting a child with mental illness  - parental coping strategies  - family mental health challenges 

This episode of "Navigating Mental Illness: Parents Stories" features Courtney, a mother who has been supporting her son through his mental health and substance abuse struggles. Courtney shares the journey of her son's development, the initial signs of trouble, his refusal to accept help, and the spiral into drug use and psychosis.  Courtney candidly discusses the emotional toll this has taken on her, including PTSD, panic attacks, and the feeling of helplessness. She describes her approach to self-care, such as therapy, meditation, and limiting her involvement in the community to focus on her own well-being. The episode also explores the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, the lack of timely access to appropriate care, and the difficulties in getting a proper diagnosis. Courtney shares her experience with the conservatorship process and her hopes for her son's future. Throughout the conversation, Courtney offers advice to other parents in similar situations, emphasizing the importance of seeking personal support, setting boundaries, and staying persistent in advocating for their child's needs. The episode provides a raw and emotional perspective on the realities of supporting a loved one through mental health and addiction issues. Keywords: - Mental illness - Bipolar disorder - Substance abuse - Parenting - Mental health treatment - Guardianship - Self-care - Healthcare system - Navigating the challenges - Resilience - Emotional toll - Diagnosis

In this eye-opening episode of "Navigating Mental Illness: Parents Stories," we hear from Lila, a mother who shares her deeply personal journey with her son’s mental health challenges. Diagnosed early with Asperger's syndrome and later with bipolar disorder, Lila's son faced social and academic struggles despite his intellectual brilliance. Lila talks about the turning point when her son found solace and a sense of community in music and theater, but also the harrowing suicide attempt that changed their lives forever. By exploring a broken mental healthcare system, utilizing a therapeutic consultant, and enduring countless emotional and logistical challenges, Lila's unwavering advocacy eventually led to her son stabilizing and thriving both academically and socially.   **Keywords:** - Mental Health - Asperger's Syndrome - Autism Spectrum Disorder - Bipolar Disorder - Adolescent Mental Health - Suicide Prevention - Therapeutic Consultant - Mental Healthcare - Parental Advocacy - Music Therapy

In this deeply moving episode of the "Navigating Mental Illness: Parents Stories" podcast, we sit down one mom (she chooses anonymity) as she shares the tumultuous experience of dealing with their son's severe mental illness. From terrifying moments of psychosis and emergency room visits to the challenges of balancing professional life and personal anguish, her story is a raw and honest portrayal of a parent's resilience and the complexities of mental health care. She also emphasizes the importance of community, self-care, and the shortcomings of the current mental health support systems. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating similar experiences or seeking to understand the profound impact of mental illness on families. Keywords: Mental Illness Psychosis Bipolar Disorder Parenting Challenges Mental Health Crisis Emergency Room Visit Self-Care Community Support Therapy Family Impact Suicide Prevention Mental Health Resources Navigating Mental Illness PTSD in Parents Support Systems Guest Information: Coral shares their journey of living through the chaotic storm of their son's mental health crisis, providing invaluable insights and practical advice for other parents in similar situations. Resources Mentioned: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org Parent Support Groups for Bipolar Disorder: https://www.facebook.com/groups/593681647507892 Connect with Us: Email: bill@navigatingmentalillness.co Website: https://navigatingmentalillness.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nmipspodcast/ 

In this poignant episode of "Navigating Mental Illness: Parent Stories," we dive into the compelling journey of a family as they navigate the complexities of living with bipolar disorder. Joined by Renee and her son Jacob, listeners are taken through the challenges from Jacob's hyperactive childhood to the dark days of his young adulthood, marked by extreme emotional highs and lows. Renee talks about the early struggles of ensuring Jacob’s safety due to his severe sleep issues and hyperactivity, sharing intimate insights into their life-saving routines and the relentless pursuit of a stable diagnosis. Jacob opens up about his mental health battles, the pivotal moment of becoming a father at 17, and his life-changing decision to seek hospitalization. Throughout the episode, we witness the unwavering support of a loving family, the dire need for proper mental health care, and the evolution of mental illness management over the years. Renee's faith and guidance alongside Jacob’s courage to take steps towards his wellbeing illuminate the critical aspect of having a supportive network. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the realities of mental health struggles, the importance of proper medical support, and the hope that lies in persistent care and love. Bipolar disorder Mental health journey Hyperactivity in children Family support with mental illness Childhood bipolar disorder Struggles with sleep issues Adolescent mental health Prozac side effects voluntary hospitalization for mental health Parenting a bipolar child Navigating ADHD and bipolar Impact of hyperthyroidism on mental health Overcoming paranoia Importance of mental health medication Stabilizing with mental health treatment GeneSight testing for medication Emotional highs and lows bipolar Jacob’s mental health story Renee’s parenting challenges Support systems for mental illness

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Erica, a devoted mother who shares her journey navigating her son's bipolar disorder. From recognizing the initial symptoms to dealing with multiple hospitalizations, Erica provides a candid look into the challenges and coping strategies she has discovered along the way. She discusses the impact of medications, the importance of mental health support, and the emotional toll it takes on a family. This episode is a poignant reminder that while the road is tough, support and understanding can make a significant difference.   **Key Topics Discussed:** - Early signs of bipolar disorder in young adults - The impact of antidepressants on bipolar disorder - The significance of support groups and therapy - Coping mechanisms for parents and families - The importance of staying present and taking one day at a time - Strategies for managing mental health in the family - Navigating the mental healthcare system   **Resources Mentioned:** - National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) - GeneSight testing for medication - Support groups and therapy for families dealing with mental illness   #### Keywords   - Bipolar disorder - Mental health - Parenting mental illness - Mental health support - Antidepressants and bipolar disorder - NAMI support groups - Recognizing bipolar symptoms - Coping with mental illness - Navigating mental healthcare - Family mental health strategies

In this powerful episode, we hear the story of Sue, a mother whose son has struggled with mental illness for over a decade. Sue shares the harrowing details of her son's journey, from a seemingly happy and successful teenager to someone battling bipolar and schizoaffective disorders. The podcast covers the family's encounters with the mental health system, including hospitalizations, medication challenges, and interactions with the legal system. Sue's story highlights the immense challenges faced by those navigating the complex and often unforgiving landscape of mental healthcare. Through her raw and emotional testimony, Sue emphasizes the need for better support, communication, and accountability within the system to ensure that individuals with mental illness receive the comprehensive care they deserve.  Key Takeaways:  The mental health system often fails to provide adequate and coordinated care for those struggling with severe mental illness.  Families face immense emotional and logistical burdens when caring for a loved one with mental health issues.  Lack of communication, accountability, and resources within the system can exacerbate the challenges for individuals and their families.  Navigating the intersections of mental health, the legal system, and medical institutions can be an overwhelming and isolating experience.  Advocacy and support are crucial for families seeking to improve the quality of care and outcomes for their loved ones. 

Mary describes feeling like she lives in a lighthouse, constantly needing to keep the light shining to prevent her daughter from hitting the rocks. This is a powerful analogy for the struggle of parenting a child dealing with addiction. The importance of maintaining faith, praying constantly, and trusting one's instincts as a parent is emphasized. Mary shares how she felt God intervened to prevent her from going to church on a day when her daughter nearly overdosed. Self-care is stressed as crucial, like putting on your own oxygen mask first on an airplane before helping others. Taking care of one's own mental health is key to being able to support a loved one. The value of finding community and realizing you are not alone in your struggles is highlighted. Hearing other people's stories can provide comfort and a sense of connection. Key Takeaways: Maintain hope and faith during the most challenging times Trust your parental intuition - you know your child best Prioritize your own well-being so you can better support your loved one Connect with others who understand your experience Overall, this conversation offers insight, empathy and practical advice for parents navigating the complex reality of having a child struggle with addiction. The show hosts create a safe space for an open and vulnerable discussion.

Tina always loved running. She has done half and full marathons, but with her daughter’s mental illness, she is exhausted and has no energy to start running again. As a child, her daughter scratched a derogatory statement in the kitchen countertop and blamed it on her brother. Fast forward, she has two children out of wedlock, couch surf, has had restraining orders against her and many other challenging behaviors and issues.  Tina is at a turning point in her life. Can she deal with her daughter’s behaviors and not get involved to a point that exhausts her?  This episode is for you if you struggle with setting boundaries and don’t know how to help without just giving up on your child.

Melissa’s hadn’t even babysat prior to having her daughter. When at two she fought going to bed, she thought it was pretty normal. Not until she looked, did she realize it was way more intense. Melissa turned out to be an overachiever in school and was super active outside school, but she always had issues with keeping friends. Her struggles with relationships continued and both her and her daughter were diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Now Melissa has spent time away from her daughter and it has really helped her. This episode is for those that have a difficult relationship with their child and would like to live healthier lives.

Sandra and her husband thought they would be empty nesters by now. They have grandchildren, ride bikes, fish, train dogs and support a son with a mental illness. While he has improved his situation, he is still dependent on his parents. Sandra has spent the time trying to udnerstand her son's condition. For example, when he draws a house, he starts with the windows; basically he has trouble seeing the big picture. Learn from Sandra and do your research when you find out your child has a mental illness. Don’t just listen to one doctor, seek more help and services to deal with this complex situation. This episode is particularly helpful to those parents who are reaching the age that they are thinking about the rest of their lives. How will they support their child when they are too old to do it? 

Deb and her son had to wait a 1 1/2 years to see a psychiatrist in the remote area of Canada she lives. That is just one of the challenges she had to face to try and help her son. But as we have heard many times, she has stuck by him even during especially scary times when he was not stable. Like the time he called the paramedics saying she had a heart attack, even though she was fine. All of these challenges have affected her job and her life, but Deb remains very proud of her son and the work he puts into getting better. Be sure to stay tuned until the end for a special update when her son joins her. This episode is for those parents who want to be inspired to keep on loving their child even though it all seems too difficult. 

Rebecca’s son is a handful, to put out mildly. He is smart and did well in school until he started having issues and then the challenges multiplied. She has had to: change schools, have him committed, take over his medical decisions, contact politicians in Mississippi to get him transferred back to Pennsylvania and a whole lot more. Rebecca is also a therapist which goes to show that her journey has been a challenge even for her, someone with training in mental health. Her son is still delusional and has thought he is an archangel and he was committed and ended up in the state hospital.  This a great episode for those who struggle with finding a balance between support and keeping safe. Rebecca has some stories that proves you are not alone! Update: Rebecca told me her son is in a state hospital since April and is not doing that well yet. 

Kate and Scott’s son had many diagnoses starting in the 7th grade including ODD and ADHD, Cognitive Distortion, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression and Anxiety. As engaged parents, they worked hard to find services and worked with the school to advocate for him, but the challenges left them drained. They searched for answers and information on how best to parent their child, a sweet kid, but he was also had his social and emotional challenges.  Throughout their long journey, Scott and Kate felt alone and Kate promised her son and herself she would help other parents navigate the mental health inpatient and outpatient programs. Her son was even severely bullied at his school and Kate and Scott worked to change the school’s response, with little success.  They kept building their skills through work with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and family focused therapy. Through those programs, Scott and Kate learned to speak and interact differently with not only their son with the mental illness, but their other son and one another. Now Kate can honestly say things are “downright pleasant.” She has also followed up on her promise and started a 501 (c) 3 non-profit.  to help parents like her and her husband to not only get by, but THRIVE. Kate and her co-founder, Jennifer, another Mom who has found better ways to deal with their families’ challenges, started THRIVE Parenting Project in 2023.  You can join them on a Zoom call every Tuesday at 7 pm Central Standard Time. Visit Kate and Jennifer’s website for more information www.thriveparentingproject.com Not slowing down, Kate also was elected to her local school board during COVID, no less. Her goal was to change and improve some of the school district’s policies that made her son’s situation worse rather than helping him. Overall, she’s hoping to make the school district a safer place for all of the current and future students.  If you feel alone and would like to hear how you can change your family’s dynamic, this episode is for you!

Angie’s son is violent and so bad that she has had to have a gun on her nightstand to protect her and the rest of her family. Angie’s son’s violent outbursts started in grade school and so did her journey to understand and treat his illness. By Angie’s own admission her ability to support him is running out. She has bought him and provided insurance for 8 cars, all wrecked.    She knew separation was the only way to keep healthy. She got him a trailer 20 minutes away with all the hookups and hoped that some of his schemes to be successful in a career payed off.   This episode is for those parents that aren’t sure if they can endure anymore. Angie shows that the journey to your own health is sometimes a long one, but it can be done.

Kathy son is 34 years old and living at home. Hospitalized around 15 times and does not do well on his own. However, given her macular degeneration diagnosis, she was determined to take an RV trip, knowing that her son would probably contact her.  She went and he did need her, but he managed to keep safe and she went away. Kathy has done her best to help her son, but she had hoped to have him more independent than he currently is, so she doesn’t have to put him in a facility after she is gone.  As for most parents, it is a work in progress.  This episode is especially helpful to those who have had some time since their child’s diagnosis. Kathy is experiencing facing tough decisions as she ages. Her son and her have limited options. She also provides advice on where to find support as you struggle to help your child.

Rosali’s daughter mental health challenges started at an early age. She was diagnosed with mental illness (high cyclic bipolar and borderline personality disorder) at age 13. After a suicide attempt, Rosali worked to get her counseling help.   In another hurdle for Rosali, Washington State age of consent is 12 for a parent to not receive medical information. So after not taking her meds and continuing to struggle, Rosali did her best to support her child.   After years of this roller coaster ride (including heroine addiction and two children) her son told her that the other siblings needed her too.    That was her rock bottom.    From then on, she separated herself from her daughter’s illness and drug addiction. Rosali was able to keep her marriage from collapsing (they were separated for a year) and maintain distance from her daughter’s destructive cycles.   If you struggling with mental health and suicide attempts of your child, this episode is for you. As Rosalie says, it gets better and you can have a life, even when your child may not ever become healthy.