She wrote the book for challenged parents
Mail TribuneMar 19, 2019
"You're not alone. There are thousands upon thousands of other families that are going through this. It's just no one talks about it," she said.
The
The practical how-to guide is based on years of research and experience coping with her daughter Chloe's mental illness. Chloe deals with bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, a learning disorder and an auditory processing disorder.
Although chronic or short-term mental illness will affect an estimated one in five Americans,
People are embarrassed to seek treatment, and when they do, the resources and support available to treat mental illness lags far behind those devoted to physical health care.
She said a colleague's son has long suffered from schizophrenia, a chronic illness characterized by hallucinations, delusions and difficulty thinking clearly. The family has struggled to get adequate care for him.
But when the colleague developed a brain tumor, the whole health care system -- including doctors, nurses,
"This is the same organ in your body -- your brain," she said.
In her book,
Too often, she said, people with mental illness end up in jails and prisons. Not enough resources are invested up-front to help people manage their mental illness and live stable, productive lives.
When a child is unable to handle the school environment, and a parent's ability to work is compromised and family life is disrupted, it's probably time to seek professional help from a psychiatrist, she said.
But mental illness -- especially anxiety, depression and eating disorders -- may have subtle warning signs, as well.
She notes that if a child thinks something is wrong and asks for help, parents should take the child's concern seriously.
With more kids and teens than ever using social media and glued to their phones,
"Social media is a nightmare really not only for children who are struggling with mental illness, but for children across the board," she said.
Young people who overuse social media often don't develop interpersonal skills and deep friendships. They are also missing out on important social cues, including body language.
In addition to helping families,
"I hear from families regularly who are floundering trying to navigate the schools, their health insurance and treatment options, all while attempting to take care of a mentally ill child and go about their lives," she said.
Above all,
She said her daughter Chloe is doing well, putting her love of horses into action by working on a
"She's doing great,"
"On the Edge: Help & Hope for Parenting Children with Mental Illness" is available in print or as an ebook through www.amazon.com.
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