Stigma – Agenda Texas

Coping with the Holidays

Dec 7, 2008Susan K. StewartHolidayChristmas, coping, family, Holiday, Stigma

Holidays are hard. Crowded schedules, family expectations, self expectations, and physical and emotional drain. For our loved ones who suffer with brain disorders that cause emotional distress, all the stress of the holidays is even worse. While we are planning joyous celebrations, our ill family member may be just trying to deal with the daily

Homelessness Awareness Week

Nov 17, 2008Susan K. Stewart1 CommentUncategorizedawareness, Homelessness, Mental Illness, Stigma

As I write this I’m not sure where my son is. I’m pretty sure he’s in the local area. I have no way to contact him. Last week his girlfriend told him to leave her apartment. She could no longer live with the behaviors brought on by his mental illness. He left. My son is

Book Review – Through the Storm

Oct 21, 2008Susan K. Stewart2 CommentsFamilies, Parentsbook, book review, denial, Lynn Spears, Stigma

For readers looking for a sensational tell-all, Lynne Spears’ Through the Storm, will be disappointing. I, too, was disappointed, but for different reason Through the Storm, subtitled A Real Story of Fame and Family in a Tabloid World is less than it promises. It is less about family and more about Ms. Spears defending herself.

Sam

Oct 14, 2008Susan K. Stewart1 CommentUncategorizedRecovery, Stigma

Unintentionally the man drew attention to himself. Most people didn’t notice as he came into the Social Security office. They were huddled in their own space waiting for their number to be called. This man, let’s call him Sam, became noticed after he checked in at the computer terminal, and began to unload his pockets