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 and 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.