When mentally ill kids become legal adults, getting them proper treatment shows gaps in system
Written by: Chris Kenning
LEXINGTON, KY. — Joann Strunk’s “roller-coaster ride
through hell” began nearly 10 years ago when her then 16-year-old
daughter, Sarah, began hearing voices.
Sarah
was diagnosed with schizophrenia, and her young life became marked by
hallucinations, angry outbursts and depression. There were
hospitalizations and several suicide attempts.For Joann, a single mother, handling a severely mentally ill daughter while navigating a fragmented system of care with limited insurance was a constant struggle. But when Sarah became a legal adult and Joann was no longer in charge of her treatment, things got much tougher.
Please take the time to read the entire article here. The closing statements by Joann's daughter, Sarah are profound. Her words resinate the pain of surviving a life with mental illness. http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20130317/NEWS01/107120005/-1/EXTRAS34/
"Please share a few words of wisdom and support, (in the comment section either here or on the Courier-Journal's website) for this brave Mother and her daughter, who have exposed their painful journey in hopes a better system of care will develop in Kentucky!"
_________________________________________________________GG Burns, Mental Health Advocate and Blogger
