184: Loving Someone with a Mental Illness

In this powerful and insightful episode, we sit down with Dr. Michelle Sherman, a licensed clinical psychologist, professor, author, and national leader in family psychology who has dedicated her career to supporting families navigating mental illness and PTSD. With decades of experience, Dr. Sherman shares practical, research-based strategies to help loved ones set boundaries, communicate effectively, and build resilience in the face of mental health challenges. What you'll learn in this episode: How to Talk to Your Kids – Helping them understand a parent's mental illness without guilt or shame Setting Healthy Boundaries – Supporting a loved one without losing yourself in the process Building a Strong Support System – Finding the right people and resources for both you and your family Coping with Guilt & Emotional Burnout – Giving yourself grace while still showing up for others Practical, Research-Based Skills – Strategies for navigating complex family dynamics Dr. Sherman's expertise goes beyond clinical knowledge—her work is filled with real-life stories, interactive exercises, and compassionate guidance to help individuals and families heal and thrive. Be sure to check out her books: 📖 Loving Someone with a Mental Illness or History of Trauma – A must-read for anyone supporting a loved one through mental health struggles. 📖 I Am Not Alone: A Teen's Guide to Living with a Parent Who Has a Mental Illness or History of Trauma – A valuable resource for young people seeking understanding and support. 🎧 Tune in now for a heartfelt conversation that will leave you feeling empowered, seen, and better equipped to navigate mental health in your family and relationships. — 00:00 Introducing Dr. Michelle Sherman 01:17 The Impact of Parental Mental Health on Children 03:01 Challenges in Addressing Parental Mental Health 06:05 Research Insights on Mental Health Awareness 07:33 The Role of Parents in Mental Health Treatment 22:42 Differences in Mental Health Perception 27:59 Navigating Therapy with Your Child 31:47 Mental Health Awareness 35:55 The Role of Grandparents in Modern Parenting 39:25 Mental Health Resources for Teens 47:43 Supporting Adults with Mental Illness 51:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts — Ready to dive even deeper? I'm handing you the keys to the castle! If you loved this episode and want more, don't forget to hit subscribe so you never miss out! Let's stay connected—find me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.