Family Peer Support: Navigating Challenges Together
I think we all got emotional when Beth was speaking on it, and- and I really was able to even look at Andy in a different lens through to, you know that sisterhood of being single parents, and me too, my ex and I, we don't always see eye to eye and he doesn't know what's going on. In my experience, the system doesn't provide anything for the family.
How do you support a child with behavioral health challenges while keeping your own sanity intact? In this episode of 'Recovery Talks', hosts Jim and Lea sit down with Beth Ayers and Andi from Montana's Peer Network to tackle this very question. Both Beth and Andi have firsthand experience raising children with behavioral health issues, and they share their journeys, shedding light on the rollercoaster of emotions and obstacles they’ve faced.
The conversation digs deep into the lack of resources available for families, the stigma and self-blame parents often feel, and the crucial role of advocacy and emotional support. One standout theme is the power of family peer support. Beth, Lea, and Andi discuss how connecting with other parents who’ve been through similar experiences can be a game-changer. They highlight the benefits of having someone who understands the system and can offer both practical advice and a shoulder to lean on.
Montana's Peer Network is working hard to build a robust family peer support system and is looking for parents and caregivers to join their Family Support Committee and Board of Directors. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the trials and triumphs of parenting children with behavioral health challenges. It’s a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand or improve the support systems available to these families.