The Back-Story

I graduated from Canadore College‘s Print Journalism program and though I haven’t worked in the journalism field professionally I have always had a passion for writing and language. My other passions include reading, movies, TV, and music – obviously, I enjoy a good story no matter the medium.

I have a surprising amount of “life experience” through which I have learned a great deal about myself, other people and how we interact with one another. I’ve learned there are at least two sides to every story and somewhere, usually somewhere in the middle, is the unbiased truth. I’ve learned that not everyone views the world the same way and that’s a good thing. But the main thing I’ve learned is that I still have a lot to learn.

I started Surviving the Madhouse in 2011 with the intent of providing a voice for parents with kids with mental illness. Many things changed over the – both my kids are in college now, I’m in a committed relationship with a very patient and wonderful man, and I have been diagnosed with PTSD.

This diagnosis has changed the focus of my writing. Now it’s not just about the kids. It’s about me too. We are a family learning to live, love and laugh either in spite of or because of our mental illnesses.

Originally I wrote “Surviving The Madhouse is my attempt to not only download the excessive amount of activity that happens around my house on a daily basis but to provide hope for other parents of kids with mental illness and to let you know YOU ARE NOT ALONE. I hope to hear from other parents, after all, I need to know I’m not alone too. I truly believe there is a reason behind all of this experience I’ve gained, and if by sharing my experiences, the lessons I’ve learned, the resources I’ve tapped into, with others, means one person will have an easier time of it than I have, then I have accomplished a great deal.”

Well, now I’m writing not just for parents to know they’re not alone, but for anyone who is diagnosed with a mental health illness and feels secluded. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. I hope you’re able to glean something from this blog, a nugget of wisdom, a new perspective, a smile or even a laugh. A word of caution though, my sense of humour does tend to run to the dry, sarcastic side, so please don’t take too much to heart.

I enjoy getting feedback so please comment, share your story with me too. After all, we’re here to help each other.