Fighting Invisible Battles: The Ripple Effect of Mental Illness, Substance Abuse, and Familial Relationships

Abstract

Although significant progress has been made regarding mental illness within recent years, systemic shortcomings from decades past have negatively impacted the lives of those living with mental illness and in turn, the family members that love and care for them. This session follows the life of a man with bipolar disorder, how factors relating to this diagnosis led him to substance abuse, and how his family helped him navigate the barriers he faced throughout the years. When fighting invisible battles, academia can be a powerful outlet for exploring personal struggles, and allows students to take control of their grief and contribute to causes that right the wrongs they were once witness to. Resources: National Alliance for Caregiving On Pins and Needles report: Safehouse Philadelphia Harm Reduction Action Center Submit a Question to Michell