The Just A Mom Podcast

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 Family
  • Meggin 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 Challenges
  • Meggin 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 Treatment
  • Meggin 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 Advocacy
  • Meggin 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 Challenges
  • Meggin advocates for changing standards for involuntary hospitalization in psychotic cases, emphasizing the need for a flexible approach.

Parental Feelings and Support
  • Meggin opens up about intense parental emotions and the importance of seeking support, emphasizing advocacy and trust-building.

Advocacy and Fierce Advocacy Skills
  • The 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.

Creators & Guests

Host
Susie Gurley
Susie shares the real stories of moms and dads who have walked the lonely, scary road of parenting a child with mental illness. You're not alone. There is hope.

What is The Just A Mom Podcast?

My name is Susie.  I have three children, the youngest of whom struggles with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. I never thought this could happen to me, and I missed the signs.  Being a parent is really hard, and I'm here to help! I'm talking to parents and experts to help you with the issues your kids may face.  I want you to know that you are not alone and there is hope.