Mary Woods

One Hour AT A Time

Mary Woods

  • A Daughter’s Story: A Life with Mom Dealing with Mental Illness Guest Sharon L. Hicks

A Daughter’s Story: A Life with Mom Dealing with Mental Illness Guest Sharon L. Hicks

Monday 12th May 2014

Sharon L. Hicks discusses growing up with a mentally ill mother and the evolution of mental health treatments on 'One Hour AT A Time'.
56 minutes
Inspiring
Empowering
Informative
Hopeful
Compassionate

About this podcast

One Hour AT A Time
Author:
Mary Woods
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Family Recovery from Addiction
Recovery from Trauma
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Growing Up with Mental Illness: Sharon L. Hicks' Journey

I always felt special because I didn't know anybody else who had a mother who was sick in the head.
What’s it like to grow up with a mother battling bipolar disorder and schizophrenia? In this episode of 'One Hour AT A Time', Mary Woods sits down with Sharon L. Hicks, who offers an unfiltered look into her life with a mentally ill mother. Sharon's story is a mix of heartbreak and humor, revealing the hidden struggles behind the facade of a 'normal' family life.
From public scenes of her mother undressing to being locked out of the house, Sharon’s childhood was anything but ordinary. Yet, she navigates these memories with a blend of honesty and wit that makes her tale both relatable and enlightening. Sharon discusses the outdated and often harsh treatments her mother endured, like insulin therapy and cold bath immersions, and contrasts them with today’s more compassionate approaches.
Her journey underscores the importance of personal responsibility in recovery, not just for those directly affected by mental illness but also for their families. This episode sheds light on the often-overlooked ripple effects of growing up in a dysfunctional environment. Sharon's experiences remind us that while mental illness can be isolating, sharing our stories can foster understanding and support.
Her candidness serves as a beacon for anyone grappling with similar challenges, offering hope that recovery and a fulfilling life are possible.