Candace Schoner

Speaking Candidly with Candace

Candace Schoner

  • Family Trauma

Family Trauma

Wednesday 29th January 2025

Explore the effects of parental mental illness on children with expert insights from Dr. Michelle Sherman. Learn coping strategies and support mechanisms.
28 minutes
Informative
Supportive
Compassionate
Hopeful
Educational

About this podcast

Speaking Candidly with Candace
Author:
Candace Schoner
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Healing Relationships
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Understanding the Impact of Parental Mental Illness on Children

Episode Overview

  • Children often feel confused and isolated due to their parent's mental illness.
  • Open communication within families is crucial to alleviate confusion and stigma.
  • Practical coping strategies include regular sleep, exercise, healthy eating, and social connections.
  • Systemic support and resources are vital for children affected by parental mental illness.
  • Countries like the UK and Australia provide better structured assistance compared to the US.
It's so important for this child, these children, to be able to get away, to have boundaries, to release the sense of their being responsible for their parents
Growing up with a parent suffering from mental illness can be a tumultuous journey. In this episode of 'Speaking Candidly with Candace', host Candace Schoner chats with Dr. Michelle Sherman, a seasoned clinical psychologist, about the impact of parental mental illness on children. Dr. Sherman, who has authored several books on the topic, shares her extensive experience and insights on how young people cope with such challenging family dynamics.
She discusses the often unspoken fears and emotions these children face, from confusion and anger to isolation and fear of inheriting the illness themselves. The episode sheds light on the importance of open communication within families and the detrimental effects of stigma surrounding mental health issues. Dr. Sherman also offers practical advice on coping strategies for teens, emphasising the significance of regular sleep, physical activity, healthy eating, and maintaining social connections.
She highlights the need for systemic support and resources, pointing out that countries like the UK and Australia are ahead in providing structured assistance for these young people. With a blend of professional expertise and heartfelt empathy, this episode is a must-listen for anyone affected by or interested in understanding the complexities of living with a parent who has a mental illness.
Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and support strategies that can make a real difference in the lives of these resilient children.