Not-So-Happy Holidays? How to Manage with SMI in the Family

mental illness and family
Written By Randye Kaye

What if, for families coping with SMI (serious mental illness) in a loved one, the holiday season is "the most difficult time of the year"?

The 3 Moms Discuss - Holidays past, in joy, crisis or grief - and how we currently celebrate what is...the best we can.

Some tips we share:

  • Lower Holiday expectations and Marketing Myths (e.g., perfect holidays)

  • Plan Ahead - even for possible disaster

  • Have a Plan B - and maybe C, D...

  • Include Your Loved One as Much as Possible, Especially if They Can Help

  • Don't Let the "Unsqueaky Wheels" feel ignored

  • Cherish the Good Moments - Find the Positives

  • Be Willing to Change Traditions as Needed

  • Set and Enforce Limits  - Know Your Boundaries

  • Imagine How it Is for Your Loved One

  • Family Love Matters - You Do Make a Difference

Happy (and Realistic) Holidays to You All!

Want to Share Your Story in a Voice message?

Resources:
Look Again Podcast: https://www.bcss.org/lookagain/
Tips from NAMI: https://www.nami.org/Blogs/From-the-CEO/December-2021/The-Most-Difficult-Time-of-The-Year-Mental-Health-During-the-Holidays

Mindy and her book: https://mindygreiling.com/

Randye and her book: https://benbehindhisvoices.com/

Miriam and her book: https://www.miriam-feldman.com/

Randye Kaye

Randye Kaye is a world-renowned female voice talent for business and beyond. She is the author of two books; Happier Made Simple™ and Ben Behind His Voices. As an actress she has appeared in numerous theatrical, film and television performances. Randye is a keynote speaker on the topics of mental health, communication, and happiness.

Previous

An Inmate's Mom: More Powerless Than Ever
Next

Growing Up Too Fast: When Your Parent has Serious Mental Illness