💡 What does it really take to support a loved one with severe mental illness? Many families struggle to navigate the complex mental health system while balancing their own well-being. This episode sheds light on practical, compassionate ways to help.

In this episode of Navigating H.O.P.E., Dr. Jaime Hope sits down with Brooke Bardin, a licensed clinical social worker and Director of Clinical Quality Assurance at Victory Starts Now. Together, they explore how families can effectively support loved ones with severe and persistent mental illness, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for listeners. Brooke draws from her extensive experience in mental health and criminal justice settings to discuss common challenges families face, how to set boundaries without guilt, and why advocacy in healthcare is critical. This episode is a must-listen for families, caregivers, and anyone seeking to better understand mental illness, providing both knowledge and tools to navigate this important subject.

Key Takeaways:

🧠 Understanding Severe Mental Illness – Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other conditions require lifelong management, but recovery is possible.

💙 Family Support is Crucial – Learning how to respond, set boundaries, and communicate effectively improves outcomes for loved ones.

⚖️ Navigating the Justice System – Many individuals with mental illness end up incarcerated; proper support can prevent this cycle.

🏥 Advocating for Healthcare – People with mental illness often struggle to get proper medical care—having an advocate can be life-saving.

🌟 Hope is Real – With the right support, people with mental illness can thrive and achieve their goals.

Quotes from Brooke Bardin:

💬 “As long as we have hope, we can transfer that onto our loved ones. Recovery is possible.”

💬 “Boundaries are not just for caregivers—they also help loved ones develop independence.”

💬 “Many individuals with severe mental illness are dismissed in healthcare. Advocacy can literally save lives.”

🔗 Conclusion: Supporting a loved one with severe mental illness can be overwhelming, but with education, boundaries, and advocacy, families can make a difference. Connect with Brooke Bartin via Victory Starts Now or LinkedIn.

🎧 Listen now and learn how to navigate the mental health system with compassion and confidence!

Green Flags, Red Flags When Choosing a Medical Provider

Link to opt in:  https://www.familycaregiverhope.com/lm-green-red-flags

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices