The Just A Mom Podcast

Don't miss the final episode this spring featuring Debi Roberts of the OLLIE Foundation (https://theolliefoundation.org/). Ollie is an acronym for One Life Lost Is Enough. The Ollie Foundation was founded in 2016 by three UK parents who had lost their teen sons to suicide. OLLIE is devoted to empowering individuals and organizations to reduce suicide in their communities through education, intervention, and prevention. Debi walks us through the myriad of resources OLLIE provides, all online and free. Debi proudly shares that the OLLIE Foundation has trained 25,000 people since COVID and was one of the first organizations to effectively bring this type or training and education online. Make sure you visit their website to access all of their free courses and resources.

In the final of a three-part series, Holly continues chronicling the unconditional love she and her husband have shown their son.  Holly shares that after her son attacked both her and her husband, her son was taken by ambulance to the emergency room. Holly then shares about her injuries from the attack and the permanent problems she has as a result. Holly tells us that while she and her husband did press charges against their son for their own protection and his, she has never given up on him. Since the attack, he has been better but still relapses. He started Job Corps (https://www.jobcorps.gov/) in January and is finishing high school part-time. Holly stresses the importance of therapy and her faith in this journey and how important self-care is for her. Lastly, Holly educates us on NAMI (https://www.nami.org/) and the myriad of resources they provide for free.

*Trigger warning: This episode contains conversations about sex and pornography addiction and sexual abuse.This is the second of a three-part series with Holly Miles. In this episode, Holly discusses some of the behaviors her adopted son started exhibiting after she and her husband adopted him. Some of these behaviors included inappropriate sexual behaviors and pornography use, sexual abuse, and physical violence. Holly and her husband worked incredibly hard to find the appropriate treatment for her son, which eventually led them to the Capstone Wellness Treatment Center in Arkansas (https://capstonewellness.com/). Holly discusses in-depth their experience with her son's residential treatment at Capstone, which included extensive parent and family therapy as well.  Even though Holly says her son left treatment as a completely changed kid, it was only a matter of weeks before her son violently attacked her and her husband physically.

Don't miss the first of this three-part series featuring Holly Miles. Holly has quite a story of her own mental health journey, her work as a psychiatric nurse, her journey with the foster care system, and her eventual adoption of her son, Jacob. Holly shares her personal and professional experiences that led her to her present work as the Executive Director of NAMI Greater Kansas City.  Holly always wanted to have children but was unable to do so. She and her husband went through the process of becoming foster parents.  Holly conveys her feelings vulnerably about fostering twins and eventually adopting a 12-year-old boy. Holly does not sugarcoat her experience with and feelings about the foster care system and the impact on her son, who was in the foster care system from the age of two until Holly and her husband adopted him at age twelve.

Since 2008, Stephen and Mary Pruitt have been making truly independent, Hollywood-quality feature films that both entertain and inspire. This episode of The Just A Mom Podcast highlights their recent film, State of Grace, which, Mary says, is a film about “fentanyl, foster care, and a family of strangers.” This must-see movie chronicles the journey of the main character, Erin, and her struggle with fentanyl, her arrest, and the subsequent loss of her daughter to state custody. Mary emphasizes that State of Grace is not fiction but reality and that addiction affects all families. Mary shares how, during their research for the film, she realized how many people came to addiction “honestly and accidentally.” Mary mentions several resources, including the One Pill Can Kill campaign (https://www.dea.gov/onepill) and the Johnson County, Kansas You Never Know campaign (https://www.youneverknowjoco.org/). State of Grace is available on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPBNJMD7).

I knew I wanted to do something different and special to celebrate the 100th episode of The Just A Mom Podcast. It seems only fitting to have three of my closest friends interview me. On this episode, Debbie, Jen, Toni and I take a walk down memory lane where they ask me questions about my journey as a parent of a child who struggles with mental illness. We also talk about the inception of The Just A Mom Podcast, lessons learned, and what the future looks like for The Just A Mom Podcast. Don't miss this celebratory episode where the tables/mics are turned on me!

This is the continuation of the previous episode. Cindy chronicles her daughter, Chase's, journey with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in 2022.  Chase was part of a clinical trial, which accelerated all TMS treatments into a few days, as opposed to the traditional model that spans multiple weeks. Cindy notes how quickly Chase improved and how she became herself again.  Chase is now a pre-med junior in college and doing well. Dr. Koo explains the difference between TMS and Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT). She also notes that the accelerated protocol is now far beyond the clinical trial, and which path a patient takes is often dependent on insurance. The accelerated protocol is typically cash pay right now. Cindy and Martha conclude by discussing their quest as members of the Board of the Clinical Advancement of TMS (https://factms.org/) is to get TMS on equal footing and get it in the conversation of mental health treatments.

Don't miss the first in a two-part series featuring Cindy Elkins and Dr. Martha Koo. I met Cindy at the 2024 NAMICon (https://events.nami.org/namicon/). Cindy shared some of her daughter's story with me, which included being part of a clinical trial for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS, and being featured on The Today Show (https://www.today.com/video/how-magnet-therapy-can-help-treat-depression-143573573760). Cindy is not only a business executive and mom, but she also serves on the Board of Directors for the Foundation for the Clinical Advancement of TMS (https://factms.org/), along with Dr. Martha Koo, a board-certified psychiatrist and addiction medicine specialist and Chief Medical Officer for Your Behavioral Health (https://yourbehavioralhealth.com/). In this episode, Cindy shares with us how her daughter, Chase's, battle with depression started in early 2020. After talk therapy and “a carousel of antidepressants” did not help Chase's depression, Cindy took to an internet search for answers. Cindy and Dr. Koo explain what TMS is, the advantages of TMS, and the science behind it. 

Join this informative and engaging conversation with Diana Partington, licensed professional counselor in Nashville, Tennessee, and author of DBT for Life. Diana shares the philosophy behind Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and how every person can benefit from DBT. DBT was founded in 1993 by Dr. Marsha Linehan and became popular around 2010. Diana shares how DBT is a powerful treatment for suicidal thoughts and ideation, depression, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and eating disorders. Diana talks about how her own life events and battle with suicidal thoughts led her to DBT as a client and the transformative power of the tool kit she took from it. Diana wrote DBT For Life to be user-friendly; something that people could consume in bite-sized chunks and enter in the most helpful way for the reader. The book is full of illustrations and stories of applying DBT skills. Diana dives into the four tenets of DBT therapy and takes the listeners through an example. Diana also runs groups online (https://dbtforlife.com/) and hosts a podcast called Suffering Optional (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/suffering-optional/id1767018426). DBT For Life can be purchased here: https://www.amazon.com/Dbt-Life-Skills-transform-Lotus/dp/B0CW2ZKB5S

This episode of The Just A Mom Podcast features a conversation with parent and advocate Laura Craciun. Laura shares her journey as a parent of an adult child who suffers from a serious mental illness and how difficult it is for families of adults to help their loved ones receive the treatment they need.  Laura's son's journey started right before he turned 18, at which time parents are no longer able to act on behalf of their children. Laura's son's journey has included multiple hospitalizations as well as ongoing legal issues. Laura is passionate about educating people on anosognosia (https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/common-with-mental-illness/anosognosia/), which is a lack of awareness of one's own illness. Laura says that 50-60 percent of those struggling with a serious mental illness also have anosognosia, and this likely interferes with the patient seeking the proper treatment. Laura wants everyone to know about Assisted Outpatient Treatment Laws. These laws work to help individuals receive proper treatment and divert them away from the justice system and inappropriate incarceration.With the rise in the legalization of marijuana, Laura also advocates for parents to understand Cannabis-induced psychosis and the rise of this problem among teens and young adults (https://learnaboutsam.org/, https://johnnysambassadors.org/stopdabbing/?gad_source=1).

In this powerful episode, I am joined by three amazing guests—Kayla Solomon, licensed clinical social worker, along with Allies in Recovery family members Carolyn and Kenneth. Carolyn and Kenny outline their journey with their son's addiction, which included a suicide attempt, overdoses, developing an eating disorder, and their discovery of Allies In Recovery. Carolyn and Kenny share how Allies has been a major lifeline for them during their son's battle and now 14 months of sobriety. Karla adds in her clinical knowledge and expertise as a group facilitator for family members. All three guests share about the CRAFT method that Allies teaches family members, which stands for Community Reinforcement and Family Training. The CRAFT method is an evidence-based method taught as an eLearning program, along with live, weekly training and support groups. The guests emphasize the importance of community for loved ones of those who struggle with addiction along with how invaluable the toolbox CRAFT teaches loved ones and family members. Kenny and Carolyn discuss how they had to change the way they were relating to their family member, and how critical that has been for their own well-being as well as their relationship with their son. To learn more about Allies In Recovery go to https://alliesinrecovery.net/. Allies in Recovery also has a podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coming-up-for-air-families-speak-to-families-about/id1227530792.

In this final episode of the three-part series with Doug and Stacee, Stacee continues sharing about her in-patient eating disorder treatment. She emphasizes how important it was for her to make the choice to stay when many in the program left, and how she didn't want to leave a legacy of not fighting. Stacee talks about the importance of moment-by-moment surrender.  Doug and Stacee also reveal that when Stacee was at Laureate (https://www.saintfrancis.com/laureate), she was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD). While they were devastated by this additional diagnosis, they understand how Stacee's childhood trauma was a significant factor in her developing BPD. While in patient, Stacee started writing blog posts, which eventually became part of her first book, You Are Worth Saving (https://www.amazon.com/You-Worth-Saving-Stacee-Goetzinger/dp/1641142758). Stacee also founded Speak Out Loud, a non-profit organization created to bring hope and encouragement into the silence, isolation, and despair created by mental illness. Doug and Stacee also host a podcast by the same name ( https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-out-loud/id1544996161) on which I have been a guest (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-out-loud/id1544996161?i=1000589034457; https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/speak-out-loud/id1544996161?i=1000644620409). Throughout all of our conversations, Doug and Stacee both emphasize the importance of their faith in Jesus during their entire journey.Stacee has recently released her second book, The Boat That Wouldn't Sink (https://www.amazon.com/Boat-That-Wouldnt-Sink-Memoir/dp/B0DFC6VTNC).

Doug and Stacee continue sharing more about Stacee's suicide attempt and subsequent hospitalization.  They also talk about their family and how Stacee's struggle impacted their daughters. Stacee says she couldn't be the mom she wanted to be and had journals full of self-hatred writing in them. Stacee's eating disorder returned, which resulted in the church where Doug was a pastor asking them to leave.  Stacee emphasized how important it is that when people need help they are not dismissed and that churches need to figure out how to help those struggling instead. Stacee's eating disorder was so severe that her mental health team told her they could no longer treat her because she was becoming a liability and that she needed in-patient treatment. This episode concludes with Stacee recalling her in-patient treatment experience at Laureate Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma (https://www.saintfrancis.com/laureate) lasted for several months, beginning with a seven-week stint in the ICU. Doug gives Stacee tremendous credit for staying in the program and working hard on her recovery.

This is the first in a series of three episodes with Doug and Stacee Goetzinger.  Don't miss this incredibly raw, honest conversation with my high school classmate, Doug, and his wife, Stacee, about Stacee's lifelong battle with mental illness. In this episode, Stacee shares about her childhood that was full of family dysfunction, including numerous moves, being malnourished as a child and her mother's suicide attempts. Stacee talks about her disordered eating in college at Dallas Baptist University and how she worked so hard to have a “new life”.  Stacee and Doug met in college, and Doug takes about his lack of knowledge and the shame messages he received about mental illness from his family of origin.  As a young married couple, Stacee experienced a miscarriage after a serious car accident, followed by complications after surgery. This episode concludes with Stacee divulging a pivotal moment when she attempted suicide in 2004 that resulted in an in-patient hospital stay. 

You don't want to miss the last episode of this fall with Lora DeMello, mom, writer, educator and President of We Are Brave Together (https://www.wearebravetogether.org/). I knew immediately when I read Lora's story in the book Becoming Brave Together (https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Brave-Together-Extraordinary-Caregiving-ebook/dp/B0D123VCRS) I wanted to share her story on The Just A Mom podcast.  Lora shares so much in this episode and has so many nuggets for parents. Her daughter, Zaria, battles generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and cyclothymia. While many people told Lora her daughter's issues were because of her parenting, Lora never stopped advocating for her daughter as she faced difficulties in obtaining an Individualized Education Program (https://www.ed.gov/sites/ed/files/parents/needs/speced/iepguide/iepguide.pdf). Lora talks about the challenges of being a single mom without a lot of support and the importance of being flexible and pivoting when parenting a child with an “invisible” illness. Lora encourages parents to find community and ask for help and stresses “bite-sized self-care” (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_oy2od5u7P9qyPEvrcR72yqF8J66RGFK/view).

Meredith is the mom of five kids, four of whom are adopted, and three of these are biological sisters. Additionally, Meredith is the founder of James Trail, an organization that seeks to come alongside families and organizations impacted by trauma. Meredith talks about the different types of trauma and the services James Trail provides, including social media posts, blogs, a podcast, and newsletters. James Trail wants the content to spur conversations between people so that people are willing to step in to receive help. Meredith also emphasizes the importance of a safe community, and what it really means to be “trauma-informed.”In addition to the content James Trail produces, they provide in-person trauma-informed workshops across the globe so that people can bring this knowledge back to their places of work and service. Meredith wants people to walk away from their training with a deeper understanding of trauma and mental health, and also with questions and conversations they want to have with people in their circles. Meredith shares about her faith as well as her own journey as a mom with adopted kids and how she was forced to deal with some of her own childhood trauma as a result. Learn more about James Trail at https://www.jamestrail.org, and check out their podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/james-trail-from-functional-to-flourishing/id1725734454.

This episode is a continuation of my conversation with Stephanie. Stephanie's daughter struggles with ARFID (avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder), anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. In this episode, Stephanie shares about her daughter's six-month residential stay at the Eating Recovery Center in Dallas (https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/recovery-centers/dallas) followed by two months of partial hospitalization treatment there. Stephanie discusses how their family managed this time, and how her daughter missed her entire junior year of high school. Upon returning home, Stephanie talks about how her daughter was able to complete two years of high school in one year and graduate on time. While the journey hasn't been perfect and her daughter still struggles, her daughter is currently in her sophomore year of college and living on campus. Stephanie encourages parents to find community when they have a child with mental illness, and how important letting go was for her to find peace.

This is the first of two episodes with Stephanie James.  Stephanie's daughter battles an eating disorder, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Stephanie shares candidly how her daughter's illness started her freshman year when she started skipping lunch and was losing weight. Stephanie took her to their family physician, who said she needed to be hospitalized immediately because of her weight and low blood pressure. Stephanie talks about how overwhelming it was to have her daughter diagnosed with ARFID (avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder), and that the hospital was not sure how to treat her daughter as they had not had a patient with this diagnosis. She went to the eating disorders clinic and was prescribed medications for her anxiety and OCD. In this episode, Stephanie chronicles the long journey of her daughter's refusal to eat, which resulted in a feeding tube. Stephanie talks about their journey with outpatient, inpatient, and residential treatments, the difficulties of navigating the mental health system and insurance, and the importance of couples counseling for Stephanie and her husband during this trying time. Stephanie talks about how crucial it was for them to share what was going on with their safe community, and the support they felt as a result. This episode concludes with Stephanie's daughter going to the Eating Recovery Center ( https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/recovery-centers/dallas) in Dallas.

I was drawn to share Tamicka's story after we met at the Mental Health KC Conference last spring. After studying computer engineering in college, Tamicka realized she wanted to work with families and individuals to heal, grow, and become the best version of themselves. Because of her own story and experiences, Tamicka wrote the book Where Daddy Lives  (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CWPPQ3B9?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_XVTTF66NZM3GNW3XW3VA). Tamicka's father went to jail and then prison when she was a senior in high school. She wrote the book for children of incarcerated parents to have a resource on feelings and coping mechanisms when they have a parent in jail or prison. Additionally, Tamicka shares her expertise on trauma and the importance of immediate help for children. Don't miss this educational and inspiring episode.

Don't miss this episode with Casie Fariello, a mom with three kids with different mental health issues—anxiety, substance abuse, depression, and self-harm. Her knowledge range is vast, including intensive outpatient treatment, partial hospitalization, wilderness therapy, and a therapeutic boarding school.  Casie knows all about managing the complexities of navigating the system as well as regulating yourself when you have a child or children struggling. Casie also knows what it's like to be on a different page than your spouse when it comes to dealing with your children. And she knows the pain of almost losing a child to overdose.Because of all of her personal pain and learning, Casie co-founded Other Parents Like Me (oplm.com (http://oplm.com)). She started OPLM because she needed a lifeline for herself. OPLM is parent and caregiver-focused, providing free webinars and a myriad of resources for a nominal cost, including 18 support groups a week. Casie is passionate about creating a place where no one is shocked to hear what someone has to say and has done the research that shows how important peer support is. Additionally, financial aid is available for those who need it.Make sure you check out Other Parents Like Me (oplm.com/)

Sometimes things don't work out the way we want or the way they should. Kristie Morton knows that personally. She lost her 14-year-old son, Hunter, to suicide on February 12, 2022. Kristie shares very candidly about her journey as a mother who has lost a child to suicide. Kristie emphasizes that parents who have lost children still want to talk about their child, and how important it is to check on the siblings and the dads as well as the moms. Kristie shares how she knew that she had to do something immediately after losing Hunter and that she and her husband were committed to not hiding the fact that Hunter's death was by suicide.  In the wake of her grief, Kristie started the You Matter organization in her local community of Archie, Missouri (https://www.facebook.com/YouMatterArchie/).  Kristie and “her girls” work tirelessly to make all members of their community feel loved and heard. Kristie has taken the indescribable pain of losing a child to suicide and channeled her experience into helping others not have to go through the same kind of pain she has experienced. 

Don't miss this encouraging and inspiring episode featuring Jessica Patay, founder of We Are Brave Together. As the mother of a child with Prader-Willi disease (https://www.fpwr.org/), Jessica founded We Are Brave Together in 2017 to be a safe place for women with children with any issue or diagnosis. We Are Brave Together is a place for women to feel seen, heard, validated, and understood through their podcast, retreats, and support groups, known as connection circles.  There are presently over 20 connection groups worldwide that support their mission to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms. Jessica openly shares the challenges of being a caregiving mom and the perseverance, tenacity, dedication, sacrifice, and love caregiving moms exhibit. Jessica has also compiled caregiving mom stories into a book, Becoming Brave Together (https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Brave-Together-Extraordinary-Caregiving-ebook/dp/B0D123VCRS). Jessica wants moms to pick up this book and feel seen, heard, and validated. She also hopes the book will help others open their eyes to the challenges caregivers face.

This episode is a continuation of Sierra's story. After the birth of her second child, Sierra was admitted to a psychiatric hospital. Again, Sierra talks about theempathy she developed by being on the receiving end of mental health services. She also frankly shares how traumatizing the admission process into the psychiatric hospital was, how her faith was shaken, and how she didn't even recognize who she was physically or mentally.  Sierra also candidly discusses what the delusions and psychosis were like, and how the delusions lasted several more weeks after her discharge from the hospital. Sierra expresses how amazing her husband's unconditional love is.  Sierra talks about how Electroconvulsive therapy saved her life, and that postpartum psychosis is extremely life-threatening. Sierra wants people to know they don't have to go through these trials alone, and that there needs to be more conversation and screening for pre and postpartum depression. For more information about these conditions,  please visit https://www.postpartum.net (https://www.postpartum.net)

Sierra works as the Community Prevention Manager for Johnson County Mental Health. But that's not why she is on the podcast. Sierra shares an incredible story of her lived experience very candidly. Sierra struggled with postpartum depression, major insomnia, hallucinations, and psychosis after the birth of her first child. In this episode, Sierra shares how she felt so alone and afraid of being separated from her family and being able to work in the mental health field again. She discusses how frightening psychosis and visual hallucinations are, and that she didn't even tell her psychiatrist about the hallucinations. Sierra was able to recover and manage her symptoms for several months, and eventually, she and her husband decided to have another baby. Sierra thought she would be able to stay on top of her mental health during her second pregnancy. However, early in that pregnancy, she had a major insomnia episode, which led to medication.  Major anxiety set in a couple of months later, which led to paranoia, delusions, and delirium. When she was seven months pregnant, she had a suicide attempt because of the delusions. Sierra felt chronically suicidal for weeks and concealed symptoms from her care team because she was afraid and wanted to protect her family from her dark thoughts. Sierra recovered and delivered a healthy baby boy.Sierra talks about the incredible support from her husband and parents, and how she felt so much shame but also incredible empathy for others who struggle with mental illness. 

This episode of The Just A Mom podcast features Tracey Yokas, author of the book Bloodlines: A Memoir of Harm and Healing (https://www.amazon.com/Bloodlines-Memoir-Self-Harm-Healing-Generational-ebook/dp/B09CD4F614). In the book, Tracey explores her relationship with her own mother as well as the family dynamics of a child with mental illness.  Tracey's daughter's battle started with the death of Tracey's mom in 2013 when her daughter was 13 years old and going into 8th grade.  It started one day with “I'm really not that hungry” and soon after that her daughter was diagnosed with disordered eating and depression. In this episode, Tracey chronicles the myriad of treatments they tried—counseling, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient treatment, and eventually in-patient treatment. Tracey shares vulnerably how a big part of her journey was learning all of the things inside her that needed healing, and that she couldn't control her daughter's healing. Tracey also talks about how she felt so many of the things that many of us have felt—she didn't want to share with people what was going on with her daughter, and she isolated herself a lot because of this. While so many of us talk about self-care as a vital part of maintaining our mental health, Tracey takes it a step further and challenges listeners to learn about themselves to become our best true selves.  She also emphasizes the importance of educating yourself about mental illness. 

Brandon Saho was a successful sportscaster in Cincinnati. He was living his professional dream, but away from his job there was an unseen story.  Brandon struggled with depression and suicidal ideation as well as alcoholism.  On this unique episode of The Just A Mom podcast, Brandon and his mom, Debbie, share about Brandon's journey with mental illness, which included in-patient hospitalization.  Brandon left his “dream job” as a sportscaster to start The Mental Game podcast, where he interviews athletes, musicians, and celebrities to help break the stigma surrounding mental health and mental illness.  Brandon recently embarked on a 30-day tour of 30 states to speak and promote the podcast. You can find the podcast here: https://www.themental.game/ or https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mental-game-by-brandon-saho/id1651420750.

This episode is a continuation of my conversation with Kristina Miller, mom of former Ohio State University football player Harry Miller. In this episode, Kristina recounts some of the fears and challenges of parenting an adult son with mental health issues. Make sure to check out the Don't Make It Weird Foundation (https://dmiw.org/ (https://dmiw.org/)), whose mission is to normalize the conversation around mental illness (https://www.thejustamompodcast.com/about). This is the final re-air of the summer. Stay tuned for new episodes in September! Make sure to follow The Just A Mom podcast on Facebook and Instagram.

If you haven't heard my conversation with Kristina, you don't want to miss this re-air. In the first of two episodes, Kristina talks about the beginnings of Harry's mental illness at a young age and all the things she did to help him. We discuss the tremendous pressure on student-athletes, particularly high-profile ones. Kristina also shares about the day she received the call that Harry was contemplating suicide and rushing from Georgia to Ohio to be with him, and how difficult it was to leave him there after sixweeks.

*Trigger warning - this episode contains explicit talk about suicide and methodology This episode is a continuation of my conversation with Coach Dowling. If you haven't listened to last week's episode, please go back and listen to it. Coach Dowling is honest, raw, and real about his brother's death by suicide and his own mental healthstruggles.

*Trigger warning- this episode contains explicit talk about suicide and methodology This episode is the first in a two-part series that you don't want to miss if you didn't hear it the first time. Coach Dowling is very open and vulnerable about losing his brother to suicide as well as his own battle with depression and suicidal ideation. He shares candidly about his time in an in-patient psychiatric hospital as well as theincredible circle of support he has.

I decided to re-air this incredibly powerful episode of The Just A Mom podcast because of the meteoric rise in fentanyl addiction and deaths related to fentanyl use. Ronda's son survived a fentanyl addiction. My conversation with Ronda is a no-holds-barred one. Her son battled an eating disorder and undiagnosed depression in high school. He found a bottle of narcotics after a family member's surgery and took one to numb his pain—and was hooked.Ronda recounts the moment things changed when they realized her son had been hiding a fentanyl addiction for 3  1/2 years in college, the failed rehab stent, followed by a 2.5-year successful recovery journey.  On a celebratory note, Ronda's son recently celebrated his seventh year of sobriety. Ronda's message to parents is this: addiction can happen to anyone.

My incredibly brave and strong friend Suzanne talks about losing her son, Nic, to suicide in 2017.  She started noticing signs of anxiety and depression before people were really talking openly about mental health. Suzanne shares deeply intimate details about losing her son her grieving process, and how losing a child to suicide can happen to anyone. Suzanne shared with me (and I'm sharing this with her permission) that she had no idea how freeing it would be to tell her story on The Just A Mom podcast. She said since the time of recording, she has found herself more willing/able to share her story. I would encourage everyone to follow in Suzanne's footsteps and share your story with a safe person.

When I first started The Just A Mom podcast, I was only focused on interviewing parents of children who have struggled with mental health issues.  That changed when I met with Trevor, and he shared the story of the last few years with me. Trevor is an adult who suffers from depression and suicidal ideation.  Trevor was a middle school teacher and coach for my two oldest kids and went on to be a middle school principal.  I can tell you from personal experience that Trevor was the teacher all the kids wanted for social studies—he was young, fun, cool, and energetic.  But over the years the darkness started creeping in. Trevor helps us understand that even though a person can appear to have it all together, there is often a very different scenario going on inside. Trevor was at the top of his profession, being named National Digital Principal of the Year in 2021, when, for the sake of his mental health, he made a significant career move to the world of E-Sports. Since the time of our interview, he has moved into a new position with SchoolAI (https://schoolai.com/). 

Kari was the first person (outside of my family) that I interviewed for The Just A Mom podcast.  I've known Kari for many years. She is the wife of my oldest son's high school football coach. My son was very close to him, and his tragic and early death in 2017 rocked our community. Kari is one of the many parents who have called me over the past few years because her daughter was suicidal. was also an early encourager of the Just A Mom podcast.  Grief is a big part of her story as she lost her dad at a young age. Kari has chosen to use her pain and experience as a young widow to help others as a professional grief coach (https://karidriskell.com/). In our conversation Kari shares her daughter's mental health journey and some of the ways losing her dad at such a young age impacted that.Kari shared with me that her daughter is doing well.  She's on track to graduate early, is working as a nanny and plans on getting a regular job in the fall. She's driving, writing, reading, and gaming. AND Kari's daughter still has depressive spells. I think this is just another reminder that for so many this is a life-long journey.

This week we are re-airing the episode featuring Kristen. Kristen's story is one of fear, patience, endurance, love, and hope.  It's also another example of how the mental health battle is a journey—more of a marathon than a sprint.  Kristen and her husband have gone to great lengths to help their son with his mental illness.  While Kristen's son's battle started when he was still in high school, Kristen gives insight into parenting an adult child with a mental illness. You will no doubt be both impacted and encouraged by their story and journey.

The Just A Mom podcast will be re-airing some of the earliest episodes of the podcast the next few weeks.  The first re-air is the very first episode of The Just A Mom podcast with my son, Will.  This show is the whole reason I became a mental health advocate and, ultimately, started the Just A Mom Podcast.  Will is my youngest son, and he struggles with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.  When Will was in the worst of his battle, I felt alone and hopeless.  There were basically no resources that I could find other than one book to help support me as a parent of a child with mental illness.  And then Will started the You Matter Festival, which reached over 10,000 people in its five-year lifespan.  Will became a local teen spokesperson and advocate for mental health.  Will is a musician, actor, director, writer, singer, and overall creative with many talents (www.WIlliamGurley.net).  I am so thankful that he is my son and he asked for help when he was struggling. 

The final episode of Season 5 is the conclusion of Susie's conversation with Kyle. Kyle shares candidly the many challenges he faced as the parent of a child struggling with depression and suicide attempts. Don't miss this story of hope and perseverance that will undoubtedly encourage all.

In this episode of the Just A Mom podcast, Susie converses with Kyle about his journey as a parent raising a child grappling with mental health issues. Kyle delves into the hurdles he encountered in identifying early indicators and the opportunities for intervention. He sheds light on the struggles of securing suitable treatment and the toll it took on his family. The dialogue underscores the pressing need for enhanced accessibility and resources within the mental health care framework. Throughout the discussion, Kyle reflects on his experience navigating parenthood amidst his child's mental health challenges, highlighting the adversities faced, such as bullying and mental health societal stigma, stressing the importance of empathy, and fostering candid discussions on mental well-being. Kyle also underscores the significance of attentive listening and the necessity for parents to prioritize their therapy. Offering guidance for parents of young children, he emphasizes the value of trusting instincts and commemorating minor victories while maintaining optimism and acknowledging the transient nature of tough times.Key TakeawaysEarly detection of mental health issues in children is pivotal for timely intervention.Even parents, including those in healthcare, can overlook signs and must remain vigilant.Challenges persist in mental health care accessibility and insurance coverage.Mental illness profoundly affects family dynamics and warrants support and understanding.Parenting a child with mental health issues can reshape healthcare professionals' approach to medicine.The effects of bullying on mental health and well-being.Addressing bullying and eradicating the stigma surrounding mental health remain pertinent issues.Promoting the importance of empathy is crucial despite potential developmental constraints in youth.Open dialogue about mental health and empathy cultivation are vital for children's well-being.Providing support through attentive listening, devoid of a solution-driven agenda, is immensely impactful.Prioritizing personal therapy is essential for parents navigating a child's mental health challenges.Parents of young children should focus on individualized understanding and foster open communication.Trusting instincts and seeking early assistance are pivotal when suspecting a child's mental health struggles.Embracing a day-by-day approach and celebrating small victories aids in navigating parenthood amidst mental health challenges.Maintaining hope and acknowledging the transient nature of adversity is crucial for resilience.Topics: bullying and mental health, the effects of bullying on mental health and well-being, the importance of empathy

This is the second in a two part series with Ryan LeFevbre, Kansas City Royals Announcer. Ryan continues his story by sharing more about his mental health journey and his road to healing. We discuss Ryan's book, The Shame of Me: One Man's Journey to Depression and Back (https://www.amazon.com/Shame-Mans-Journey-Depression-Back/dp/0984113029). Don't miss the conclusion of this honest and vulnerable conversation that is sure to encourage you.

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Ryan Lefebvre"In this episode of the Just A Mom podcast, Susie engages in a conversation with Ryan Lefebvre, the baseball announcer for the Kansas City Royals. Together, they delve into Ryan's profound journey through depression and his subsequent recovery. Ryan candidly shares his upbringing in a fractured family, shedding light on its impact on his self-worth and self-esteem. He explores the relentless pursuit of external validation in shaping his life. The episode delves into Ryan's battle with major depression, highlighting the moment when he reached out for assistance. Ryan also reflects on the role that counseling, journaling, and medication played in his path to recovery.Throughout the conversation, Ryan emphasizes the importance of discussing mental health, particularly for men who might be hesitant to share their struggles. He advocates for seeking help and support and delves into how his faith significantly contributed to his healing process, stressing the significance of surrendering to God's plan. Ryan also touches on the different facets of intimacy in relationships and underscores the need for balance. He addresses the stigma surrounding mental health in religious communities and underscores the importance of recognizing mental health as a medical condition.Key Takeaways:Childhood experiences and family dynamics can have a profound impact on one's emotional well-being, self-worth, and self-esteem.The pursuit of external validation and material success may lead to feelings of emptiness and dissatisfaction.Seeking help through counseling can provide valuable insights and support in navigating depression.Journaling and creative outlets are effective tools for processing emotions and gaining clarity during the journey to recovery.Discussing mental health is crucial, especially for men who may be hesitant to open up about their struggles.Faith can play a significant role in the healing process, offering hope and purpose.Intimacy in relationships involves physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual connections.Understanding mental health as a medical condition helps reduce stigma and promotes effective treatment.If you want to hear more about Ryan's story we warmly recommend his book “The Shame of Me”. This book represents Ryan's sincere wish to help others by sharing more stories from his life.Topics: mental health in religious communities, mental health and religion, self-worth and self-esteem

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Carron Montgomery, Licenced Professional Counselor and Award-Winning Author Part 2"Introduction: Welcome back to the Just a Mom podcast! In this highly anticipated episode, Susie is joined once again by Carron Montgomery. Carron brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, delving into topics ranging from neuroplasticity to the therapeutic benefits of nature. Throughout the conversation, Carron shares invaluable insights into the challenges faced by individuals and families in today's digital age, emphasizing the importance of balanced emotional expression and the power of human connection. As an added treat, Carron discusses her new book, "The Invisible Riptide" , a testament to her dedication to empowering individuals of all ages with the tools they need to navigate life's complexities.Parental Concerns Amidst the Pandemic:The discussion starts with the anxiety parents face during the pandemic while needing to work.Emphasizes the difficulty in reverting to a pre-digital era but stresses the importance of understanding and communicating these concerns to children.Exposure to Inappropriate Content:Concerns were raised about children encountering explicit material online, including pornography and inappropriate pop-ups, even on seemingly safe platforms like Roblox.Advocates for open conversations with children about these topics rather than avoiding them, referencing resources like "Good Pictures, Bad Pictures" and "Yes, Your Kid."Embracing Emotions and GrowthDiscussion on the importance of allowing children to experience and process emotions without immediately seeking to fix them.Recognition of the value of mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning.Introduction to The Invisible RiptideCarron shares the inspiration behind writing The Invisible Riptide series during the pandemic to address the shared struggles people face while feeling isolated.Emphasis on the book's aim to reassure readers that they are not alone in their experiences and to guide managing emotions.Providing Resources and SupportCarron discusses the additional resources provided in The Invisible Riptide, such as discussion guides, songs, and a toolbox for emotional management.Recognition of the overwhelming nature of seeking resources and the importance of presenting information in a manageable and accessible format.Upcoming Graphic Novel on Social MediaIntroduction to Carron's upcoming graphic novel on social media, aimed at providing non-preachy guidance on navigating online interactions.Discussion on the role of generational wisdom and character dynamics in the graphic novel, fostering understanding between different age groups.The Importance of Human ConnectionDiscussion on the intrinsic need for human connection and the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships.Carron emphasizes the significance of understanding emotions and using them as guides for healthy technology usage.Carron stresses the importance of education over-reliance on protective apps, highlighting children's resourcefulness in bypassing parental controls.Impact on Mental Health and Peer DynamicsExploration of the phenomenon of self-identification with mental health diagnoses among tweens and teens, influenced by peer dynamics and trauma bonding.Carron shares anecdotes illustrating the complexities of adolescent social dynamics and the importance of fostering open dialogue and support networks.Parental Support and Modeling BehaviorReflects on the challenges of balancing support and guidance without controlling or fixing children's problems.Emphasizes the importance of acknowledging children's struggles and providing unconditional love and acceptance.Advocates for validating children's experiences and offering support while respecting their autonomy and boundaries.Recognizing the Need for Professional HelpExplores indicators that may signal the need for professional intervention, such as persistent emotional distress or changes in behavior.Discusses the role of pediatricians and the importance of seeking help without stigma or shame.Empowering Personal Growth and NeuroplasticityDelves into the concept of neuroplasticity and its role in personal growth and behavioral change.Carron discusses the importance of consistency and engagement in activities to promote positive neuroplasticity and overcome mental ruts.Gratitude and AppreciationExpresses gratitude for the opportunity to share knowledge and expertise on mental health and parenting through the podcast.

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Carron Montgomery, Licenced Professional Counselor and Award-Winning Author"Introduction: In this episode of the Just a Mom podcast, Susie introduces Carron Montgomery, a licensed professional counselor, registered play therapist, level two trained EMDR, and trauma specialist. Carron shares her wealth of knowledge and expertise, offering valuable insights into neuroplasticity, the therapeutic benefits of nature, and the importance of balanced emotional expression. Additionally, Carron discusses her new book, "The Invisible Riptide," underscoring her commitment to empowering individuals and families with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges. Stay tuned for an engaging and informative conversation with Carron Montgomery on the Just A Mom podcast.Introduction to Carron's WorkCarron explains her current work in private practice, specializing in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma across various age groups.Increase in Youth Mental Health IssuesDiscussion on factors contributing to the rise in mental health issues among youth and teens over the past decade.Influence of smartphones and social media on shaping perceptions and exacerbating anxiety.Lack of breaks from social issues due to constant connectivity leads to increased stress and feelings of exclusion.Impact of Technology on Youth DevelopmentConcerns about the early exposure of children to electronic devices leading to a lack of preparedness for the emotional and social consequences of online interactions.Carron's efforts to address these issues through educational resources like her graphic novel on social media.Role of Parents and EducatorsImportance of parents and educators in providing accurate information and teaching emotional regulation skills to children.Encouragement for parents to experiment with limiting screen time and observing its impact on their children's well-being.Emphasis on fostering healthy relationships with technology and recognizing signs of unhealthy usage.The Importance of Learning Through MistakesDiscusses the necessity for children to make mistakes under parental guidance to facilitate learning and development.Highlights concerns about overprotective parenting potentially hindering children's ability to navigate challenges independently.Understanding and Accepting EmotionsEmphasizes the importance of allowing children to experience and process strong emotions without feeling the need to immediately fix or suppress them.Advocates for a balanced approach to addressing emotional needs, acknowledging the value of both validation and guidance.Introduction to "The Invisible Riptide"Explores the origins of the book "The Invisible Riptide" and its mission to provide comfort and support to children and teenagers struggling with mental health issues.Discusses the book's accessibility and inclusive approach, designed to resonate with both young readers and their parents.Creating a Common Language and ResourcesHighlights the significance of establishing a common language between parents and children regarding mental health and emotions.Provides insight into the book's discussion guide, dyslexia-friendly font, and diverse representation to enhance accessibility.Empowering Through Resources and CollaborationCarron shares the motivation behind offering additional resources and free materials on the book's website to support parents and educators.Expresses commitment to endorsing helpful products and providing valuable information without financial gain.Upcoming ProjectsCarron teases the release of a new graphic novel aimed at addressing social media issues in a relatable and non-preachy manner.Discusses the decision to utilize a graphic novel format to cater to diverse learning styles and meet readers where they are.Shares plan for future projects and collaborations to promote mental health awareness and emotional well-being.Join us for the next episode of the Just a Mom podcast featuring Carron Montgomery, a licensed professional counselor and trauma specialist. In this enlightening conversation, Carron shares invaluable insights into youth mental health. Discover how Carron's new book, "The Invisible Riptide," can provide comfort and support to children and teens struggling with mental health issues. In the second part of this episode, learn about the resources and strategies Carron offers to parents and educators for fostering healthy relationships with technology and promoting emotional resilience in children!

On the latest episode of the Just a Mom Podcast, Susie brings in Pat Aussem, Vice President for Consumer Clinical Content Development at the Partnership to End Addiction. They delve into a conversation exploring the Partnership's goals and services, the intricate link between mental health and substance abuse, and the consequences of marijuana legalization on substance use.The discussion extends to critical topics such as the dangers associated with fentanyl and counterfeit pills, the growing prevalence of vaping and alcohol use among teens, and the risks tied to hosting alcohol parties for teenagers. The spotlight is on the fentanyl crisis, emphasizing the necessity of Narcan, and the importance of safe medication storage to mitigate risks.Pat Aussem sheds light on treatment options for substance abuse, ranging from counseling and harm reduction methods to intensive outpatient programs and residential care. The conversation underscores the significance of addressing the root causes of addiction and emphasizes the need for ongoing dialogues about drugs and alcohol with children.Key Takeaways:The Partnership to End Addiction provides comprehensive support and resources for families dealing with substance abuse, covering prevention to treatment.Recognizing the strong connection between mental health issues and substance abuse is crucial, advocating for a simultaneous approach to address both aspects.Marijuana legalization has contributed to increased substance use among young people, necessitating education about associated risks.Fentanyl and counterfeit pills pose significant threats, highlighting the importance of Narcan availability to reverse overdoses.Safe storage of medications and firearms is imperative to prevent misuse and accidents.Treatment options for substance abuse encompass a spectrum from counseling to intensive residential care.Addressing the root causes of substance abuse is vital, requiring support and resources for individuals and families.Initiating conversations about drugs and alcohol with children at a young age is a preventive measure against future substance abuse.Normalizing substance use conversations from a young age facilitates open communication, making it easier for children to discuss these topics.Establish open lines of communication with your child, letting them know they can approach you for help.The Partnership to End Addiction offers free and confidential resources for families in need. Their helpline number is 855-378-4373.Topics: alcohol use among teens, substance abuse, mental health issues and substance abuse 

Podcast Episode Show Notes, part 2: "Major General Gregg F. Martin"Introduction: In the second episode featuring Major General Gregg F. Martin conversation extends to the prevalence of bipolar disorder in the military, addressing the significant challenges faced by service members. Major General Martin underscores the persistent stigma surrounding mental health issues and acknowledges the positive strides made in mental health support within the military while acknowledging the remaining hurdles.Medication Cocktail and Treatment ApproachMental illness treatment often involves a trial-and-error process to find the right medication and therapy combination.Gregg highlights the importance of a holistic, multidimensional approach to mental health care, involving medication, therapy, and support from various professionals.Quality of Psychiatric Care in VA HospitalsGregg shares his positive experience with the psychiatric department at White River Junction VA, emphasizing its exceptional quality compared to other VA hospitals.However, he acknowledges that the standard of care may vary across different VA facilities due to factors like size and patient volume.Prevalence of Mental Illness in the MilitaryGregg suggests that the military environment, characterized by stress and high-energy expectations, may contribute to a higher prevalence of mental health conditions like bipolar disorder.There has been progress in the military's approach to mental health, allowing service members with conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety to continue serving with proper treatment.Promoting Mental Health Awareness and RecoveryGregg's book, "Bipolar General: My Forever War with Mental Illness," aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote recovery strategies for individuals struggling with mental illness.The discussion emphasizes the importance of seeking timely help and effective treatment to prevent the detrimental impact of untreated mental illness.Personal Experience with Bipolar DisorderGregg provides insights into the manic and depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder, describing the euphoria and grandiosity of mania contrasted with the lethargy and despair of depression.He underscores the biological nature of mental illnesses, emphasizing that they are not character flaws but physiological conditions affecting brain function.Topics: bipolar disorder survivor, bipolar survivor, bipolar disorder in the military 

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Major General Gregg F. Martin"Introduction: In this episode of the Just A Mom podcast, Susie engages in a compelling conversation with Major General Gregg F. Martin, a combat veteran and resilient bipolar disorder survivor. Major General Martin candidly shares his tumultuous journey of grappling with bipolar disorder, shedding light on the unique challenges he confronted within the military. The first part of this interview delves into the complexities of misdiagnosis and the onset of his illness during the Iraq War, exploring the profound impact on his career. Major General Martin's BackgroundMajor General Gregg F. Martin, PhD, US Army veteran, combat veteran, bipolar disorder survivor, and advocate.Extensive military background with notable achievements and command positions.Major General Martin retired due to a state of full-blown mania, exacerbated by bipolar disorder, which had been undiagnosed and untreated for over a decade.His dismissal from National Defense University marked the climax of a 10-year struggle with bipolar disorder triggered during the Iraq War.Medical EvaluationDespite seeking medical evaluation multiple times, he received misdiagnoses and was deemed fit for duty, leading to spiraling depression and psychosis.Proper diagnosis of bipolar disorder type one and psychosis came after severe depression episodes in 2014.Impact on Work and RelationshipsMajor General Martin's manic episodes went unnoticed or were attributed to high performance during his military career, but erratic behavior was observed closer to his retirement.His wife noticed gradual changes in behavior over the years but didn't associate them with mental illness until the situation escalated in 2014.Psychiatric HospitalizationMajor General Martin's positive experience with inpatient psychiatric care at the VA followed ineffective treatment from military and civilian providers.A thorough assessment at the VA led to the proper diagnosis and treatment plan, including inpatient care.Major General Martin's book, 'Bipolar General,' aims to save lives, foster recovery, support bipolar survivors, and combat the pervasive stigma surrounding mental illness.Topics: bipolar disorder survivor, bipolar survivor, bipolar disorder in the military 

Podcast Episode Show Notes, part 2: "Meggin Rose"Introduction: In the second part of the episode, Meggin reflects on her son's high school years, highlighting his compassionate nature. The narrative unfolds to reveal significant changes before college – a noticeable loss of energy and breakdowns in communication. Meggin courageously shares her son's accusation of emotional abuse, revealing the strain on their relationship. Throughout, she advocates for openness and compassion in addressing mental health challenges, stressing the interconnectedness of individuals and the pressing need to eradicate the stigma and shame linked to these struggles. This episode encapsulates an exploration of resilience, support, and the continuous quest for mental health awareness and understanding.Observations in High SchoolMeggin reflects on her son's high school years, describing him as a compassionate and supportive individual.Talks about the noticeable changes before he left for college, including loss of energy and communication breakdown.Meggin recounts her son's accusation of emotional abuse, leading to a strained relationship before college.Understanding Psychotic EpisodesMeggin shares insights into psychotic episodes, recounting her son's experiences with disorganized thinking, short attention spans, and altered perceptions.Meggin talks about moments of fear and precautions taken, shedding light on the complex relationship between mental illness and violence.The conversation delves into Meggin's struggles and moments of despair, emphasizing the importance of self-care.Finding Strength and Coping MechanismsMeggin discusses finding strength and coping mechanisms, from therapy to engaging in activities like oil painting, writing, and volunteering.Meggin shares insights into how her son's illness has affected her marriage, highlighting the partnership with her husband and their collaborative navigation of challenges.Breaking the Silence and Building SupportAddressing societal stigmas, Meggin encourages open conversations about mental health, touching on historical blame and the shift towards shared responsibility.Meggin provides an update on her son's current status, discussing his part-time job, challenges, and aspirations. She candidly shares struggles with maintaining hope and the ongoing need for better treatments.NYU's On Track Family Support GroupMeggin sheds light on her work with NYU's On Track Family Support Group, detailing her role as a family connector and the group's aim to support caregivers.Meggin highlights the collaborative nature of the mental health community, emphasizing the need for education and understanding among healthcare providers.Final Thoughts and EncouragementIn concluding the discussion, Meggin encourages openness and compassion in addressing mental health challenges, emphasizing interconnectedness and the need to eliminate shame.

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Meggin Rose"Introduction: Join us for a powerful and insightful Just A Mom podcast episode as Susie sits down with the remarkable Meggin Rose. In this emotional conversation, Meggin candidly shares her journey as a parent navigating the complex terrain of mental health challenges within her family. From the early signs of her child's struggles to the hurdles of finding appropriate care during a pandemic, Meggin takes us through the heart-wrenching moments of hospitalization, medication challenges, and the delicate balance between advocacy and respecting autonomy.Background and FamilyMeggin provides an overview of her family, residing on a farm outside Ithaca, New York, and touches on her son's mental health struggles during high school.Early Signs and ChallengesMeggin reflects on the early signs of her child's mental health struggles, initially misattributed to typical adolescence. Challenges escalated during college, leading to serious mental health issues.Hospitalization and TreatmentMeggin shares the pivotal role of a compassionate psychiatric nurse in securing voluntary hospitalization. The family's connection with OnTrack New York and challenges with medication management are discussed.Medication Challenges and AdvocacyMeggin discusses the emotional roller coaster of medication changes, highlighting challenges with side effects, non-compliance, and the balance between mental health treatment and autonomy.Involuntary Hospitalization ChallengesMeggin advocates for changing standards for involuntary hospitalization in psychotic cases, emphasizing the need for a flexible approach.Parental Feelings and SupportMeggin opens up about intense parental emotions and the importance of seeking support, emphasizing advocacy and trust-building.Advocacy and Fierce Advocacy SkillsThe discussion covers Meggin's advocacy within the mental health care system, addressing challenges and emphasizing the need for family support.Join us in Part Two to hear more about how:Psychotic episodes can vary in symptoms and severity, and it is important to seek professional help for diagnosis and treatment.The impact of mental illness extends to the entire family, and support and understanding are essential for siblings and grandchildren.Coping and self-care are vital for caregivers, and finding joy in small moments can provide respite from the challenges.Marriages can be affected by the stress of caring for a loved one with mental illness, but open communication and support can help navigate the difficulties.Sharing the journey with others who have similar experiences can provide valuable support and understanding.While hope for the future may fluctuate, advancements in research and treatment offer potential for improved outcomes.Access to appropriate medications and treatment is crucial, and ongoing research is needed to develop more effective options.Anosognosia, the lack of awareness of one's mental illness, can complicate treatment and adherence to medication.

Introduction: In this episode of the JAM podcast, we explore eating disorders with Dr. Samantha DeCaro, a licensed clinical psychologist. Dr. DeCaro discusses the prevalence, causes, and prevention of eating disorders, touching on the complex relationship with mental health, anxiety, and depression.Pandemic's Impact on Eating Disorders:Isolation during the pandemic contributed to eating disorders.Increase in social media use, body dissatisfaction, and comparison.Food insecurity, anxiety, grief, and loss as triggering factors.Factors Contributing to Eating Disorders:Social media's role in body image dissatisfaction.Challenging myths about who can have an eating disorder.Awareness efforts lead to increased diagnoses.Populations at Higher Risk:Elevated risk for those identifying as female.LGBTQ+ community, victims of weight stigma, and those feeling unsafe at heightened risk.Difference Between Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating:Eating disorders as complex psychiatric disorders.Disordered eating exists on a spectrum, ranging from clinical disorders to healthy relationships with food.Common Eating Disorder Protective Factors:Avoiding dieting behaviors, promoting body acceptance.Encouraging a healthy relationship with food beyond fuel.Breaking down scarcity mindset and fostering body diversity awareness.Promoting Healthy Attitudes in Children:Importance of language around food and body image.Teaching that all bodies come in different shapes and sizes.Encouraging connection with body signals and cues.Recognizing Patterns of Emotional Eating:Differentiating between occasional comfort eating and problematic patterns.Suggesting additional coping tools beyond food.Signs of Eating Disorders:Intense dissatisfaction with body image.Increased isolation and anxiety around food.Preoccupation with ingredients, calories, or cooking without personal consumption.Presence of depression, rigid thinking, and elevated suicide risk.Acknowledgment that everyone may experience some form of disordered thoughts or behaviors regarding food and body image.Dr. DeCaro discusses common signs of eating disorders, emphasizing hyper-focus on food and weight.Preventing Eating Disorders:Strategies and protective factors are explored, challenging societal norms and promoting holistic health.The importance of prioritizing mental health and normalizing mental health treatment is highlighted.Dr. DeCaro introduces a transdiagnostic approach, emphasizing a multidisciplinary team.Levels of Care at Renfrew Center:Overview of residential, day treatment, intensive outpatient programming (IOP), and outpatient care.Addressing the affordability of treatment and Renfrew Center's acceptance of insurance plans.Dr. DeCaro hints at a future episode focusing on practical ways parents can help children with a healthy relationship with food.The episode concludes with gratitude from Susie and Dr. DeCaro for the informative discussion on eating disorders and the importance of mental health care accessibility.

Introduction: Welcome to a special episode of the "Just A Mom" podcast, where we kick off Season Five with a heartfelt and personal update. In today's episode, Susie is excited to be joined in the studio by a very special guest – her son, Will. As Susie expresses her joy at having Will home for the recording, the focus of this episode is centered around providing listeners with a detailed and intimate update on Will's life.School Journey:Will details his transition from Shenandoah Conservatory to Mid-American University, studying acting and directing, and anticipated graduation next year.Will reflects on his time at TCU, the decision to transfer to Shenandoah, and the challenges he faced with anxiety and social circles.Shenandoah Experience:Will discusses feeling isolated and the impact on his mental health.Will candidly opens up about his ongoing mental health struggles, highlighting that transferring to Shenandoah didn't eliminate the challenges.Support and Intervention:Susie intervenes after Will expresses depression, ensuring his safety and exploring therapy and medication adjustments.Will's psychiatrist increases his dosage to address current circumstances, emphasizing the importance of medication adjustments.Loneliness and Isolation:Despite a busy schedule, Will shares his experience of loneliness, challenges with roommates, and feeling like an outsider.Will discusses challenges in classes, rehearsals, and breaking into established relationships as a "freshman sophomore."Emergency Visit:Susie narrates the decision to fly Will home during a difficult month, emphasizing the difference between FaceTime and in-person observations.Will contemplates alternatives to going back to school, expressing determination not to give up and considering job options.Drive Back Home:The 16.5-hour drive home reflects on Will's hesitation to return to Shenandoah, navigating a challenging storm, and the importance of being together.Will shares positive aspects of the summer back home, acknowledging the internal struggle of giving college another try.Decision to Return to Shenandoah:Family discussions lead to the decision to encourage another try, emphasizing the importance of auditions and a new class.Will gets callbacks for several shows at Shenandoah, receiving positive feedback from industry professional professors.Susie praises Will's lead role as the only non-senior cast, highlighting his experience playing dark characters.Challenges Faced:Will reflect on challenges during the rehearsal and performance period, discussing the disconnect between personal values and the adaptation.Closing Thoughts:Susie summarizes Will's journey from struggles to returning to Shenandoah, teases upcoming episodes, and expresses gratitude for Will's openness.Susie asks Will about mental health preparations, leading to discussions on counseling as a couple, premarital counseling, and planning.Will discusses planning with fiancée Kayley, seeking advice from experienced couples, and staying flexible.Therapy and Professional Support:Susie emphasizes Will's ongoing medication and regular psychiatrist visits, recognizing the need for professional help.Will discusses ongoing therapy with personal therapist Dana Dahl, encouraging everyone to benefit from therapy.Will emphasizes the importance of being proactive and seeking support, acknowledging that mental health challenges require ongoing effort.Support System:Will describes reaching out to his wife, parents, and therapist if needed, emphasizing the importance of a united front.Discussions highlight the reality of ups and downs in every marriage, with Will emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset.Will seeks advice from experienced couples, recognizing their wisdom and acknowledging ongoing struggles with depression.Acknowledging Personal Growth:Despite ongoing challenges, Will acknowledges personal growth and positive changes, emphasizing the non-linear nature of the mental health journey.Recap of "The Brightest It's Ever Been":Susie recaps "The Brightest It's Ever Been," a play about anxiety, sharing its impact and plans for a regional tour.Fundraising Opportunity:A fundraising The Culture House link (designate Balladeer Theatre Company) is mentioned for supporting the regional tour, encouraging contributions from those interested in mental health and theater.Susie shares her impact from the play, urging listeners to attend when it tours and acknowledging bias as the director.Encouragement and Gratitude:Susie expresses gratitude for Will's openness, encourages listeners, and emphasizes the non-linear nature of mental health journeys.Susie mentions potential future updates from Will, thanks listeners for their support, and appreciates Will for the conversation.Closing remarks express gratitude, anticipation for future episodes, and thanks to the listeners for their support.

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Kathleen McKune and Karen Dickson"Introduction: In this insightful episode, Karen and Kathleen, integral members of the resilient Harnish family, join Susie on the Just A Mom Podcast. Co-authors of the impactful book "Remarkably Resilient," the three sisters delve into their experiences, upbringing, and the profound motivation driving the creation of the Remarkably Resilient program. From traumatic discoveries to launching a nationwide initiative, this conversation explores the neuroscience of trauma, coping mechanisms, and the transformative power of resilience.Background and Introduction: Karen and Kathleen introduce their family background, authors of "Remarkably Resilient," exploring their upbringing and the motivation behind the program. Kathleen discovered adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in 2017, leading to a realization about childhood trauma and its impact on mental and physical health. Remarkably Resilient Program: Kathleen and Karen discuss launching the program based on their book, aiming to share their story, discuss trauma neuroscience, and build resilience. Turning point moments for Kathleen and Karen, highlighting their resilience and coping mechanisms in adulthood. Impact of Trauma on Health: Discussion on ACEs' impact on mental and physical health, sharing the sisters' experiences and positive counterbalances. Susie empathizes with the sisters, acknowledging the lifelong impact of trauma and discussing the challenges faced by survivors. Delving into the neurobiology of trauma, stress responses, and the importance of addressing trauma for well-being. Kathleen and Karen share their survival journeys, emphasizing the importance of boundaries and self-regulation. Empathy and Understanding: Susie expresses understanding for the sisters' experiences, highlighting the need to break the silence around trauma.Difficult Summer and Impact on Kathleen: Challenges faced by Kathleen and Karen during a difficult summer led to a purpose-driven focus on helping others.Interview Challenges: Anecdote about challenges in discussing sensitive topics on mainstream media.Sharing Their Experience and Helping Others: Emphasis on not staying silent, motivation to help others, and the importance of shedding light on often hidden topics.Dysregulation and Coping Mechanisms: Introduction to dysregulation, recognizing triggers, and employing regulating techniques. Discussion on emotional regulation, mindfulness activities, and preventing impulsive reactions. Exploration of individual coping mechanisms during childhood, including dissociation and the therapeutic use of work. Challenges in remembering traumatic experiences, differences in coping mechanisms, and the impact of therapy. Acknowledgment of coping mechanisms and the role of therapists in the healing process. Four Rs of Resilience: Introduction to the Four Rs of Resilience: Relationships, Regulation, Response, Recovery, and Their Significance. Launching Remarkably Resilient Together with Johnson County Mental Health Center, emphasizing community awareness and resources. Supporting Organizations: Kathleen and Karen express their dream of widespread adoption, mentioning collaboration with schools and corporate support. Susie encourages engagement with local providers, schools, and corporations to support well-being. Program Launch and Availability: Details on the program launch and material availability through remarkably-resilient.com, emphasizing donation for access. Discussion on donations and accessing materials, providing instructions for support outside Johnson County. Availability of information on various platforms, including Google and remarkably-resilient.com. Susie urges listeners to explore and support the program, highlighting its universal benefits. Self-Care Discussion: Kathleen shares personal experiences of trauma and emphasizes the impact of self-care on resilience and well-being. Karen discusses the transformative impact of prioritizing self-care, reflecting on personal experiences. Susie expresses gratitude for sharing their story, praising Kathleen and Karen for resilience, and guests express appreciation.

Podcast Episode 2 Show Notes: "Wesley Hamilton"Introduction: The last episode of the Just a Mom podcast captures the life story of Kansas City native Wesley Hamilton.  The episode explores Wesley's mental struggles, including battles with depression, hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts amid a lack of mental health support. Wesley Hamilton's impactful foundation, "Disabled But Not Really," takes center stage in this episode. Founded to empower individuals with disabilities, the foundation prioritizes fitness, identity, and confidence-building. Offering a wellness center with specialized programs, Wesley ensures a space where physical disabilities don't limit self-perception and fitness goals. The foundation tackles the issue of inaccessible gyms by providing an inclusive environment with adaptive equipment and accessible facilities.Disabled But Not Really Foundation: Wesley founded the "Disabled But Not Really Foundation" to empower individuals with disabilities, focusing on fitness, identity, and building confidence. The foundation offers a wellness center with specialized programs to help individuals with physical disabilities improve their self-perception and fitness. Wesley's own experiences in inaccessible gyms and the lack of awareness in society influenced his approach to creating an inclusive space at his wellness center. The center is equipped with adaptive equipment, widened doors, and accessible facilities, striving to serve individuals with various challenges and disabilities. The foundation's programs not only focus on physical fitness but also on helping individuals with disabilities regain their sense of identity and confidence. Wesley's ultimate goal is to ensure that people of all abilities feel welcomed, empowered, and served by providing adaptive equipment and inclusive facilities. Wesley's Efforts for Accessibility: Wesley discusses the importance of creating accessible public spaces for individuals with disabilities. His foundation, Disabled But Not Really, aims to eliminate barriers in these spaces, allowing people to focus on their goals. Becoming a TV Star: Wesley talks about his unexpected experience of being featured on "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy." Emphasizes the authenticity of the show and his continued friendship and collaboration with the cast. Family Support: Wesley acknowledges the crucial role of his mother and daughter in his recovery and healing. Highlights the strength and support of his mother during his journey. Words of Advice: Wesley's advice to listeners revolves around self-awareness, encouraging them to know themselves. He emphasizes that self-awareness is key to shaping one's reality. Mental Health Advocacy: Wesley shares his growing awareness of mental health issues, especially within marginalized communities. Discusses the importance of addressing mental health and seeking help when needed. Self-Care: Wesley outlines his self-care routine, which includes affirmations, morning gratitude, exercise, a healthy diet, journaling, and having a venting person and a confidant.Challenges in Accessing Mental Health Services: Wesley highlights the lack of mental health services and awareness in marginalized communities. Advocates for a more holistic approach to healthcare. The Value of Life: Wesley talks about how confidence in oneself allows for a fulfilling life, regardless of physical condition. Emphasizes the importance of valuing life and maintaining a positive mindset. Acknowledgment of One's Past: Wesley appreciates the depth of the conversation and the significance of understanding one's past to appreciate personal growth.Gratitude and Inspiration: The episode concludes with mutual appreciation, with Susie commending Wesley for his inspirational journey and positive impact through his foundation and advocacy.