Apples and Avalanches
An Exploration of Caring for the Severely Mentally Ill
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Thus far in this book, we have explored stories of caring for loved ones and issues in the mental health care system. This chapter has two aims: to assist you in seeing beyond the symptoms of people’s illnesses to see them for who they truly are at a soul level, and to provide some ideas for boundaries that you need for yourself in the caregiving process. To keep yourself out of the constant anger, irritation, or resentment of a loved one helps to strip away those symptoms and see their personality traits for your own understanding and healing—and for the sake of your relationship with your loved one. In addition, it helps to prevent your losing your own sanity in the process of caregiving. Boundaries are needed at certain times and are ever fluctuating. It is a constant, delicate balancing act of compassion for your loved one and compassion for yourself to maintain your own sense of sanity.
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About the Book
Author Heather Scherf has personal experience caregiving for a loved one with a severe mental illness. It inspired her to share her journey through both personal and professional lenses in effort to provide some tools, support, and hope for those in similar circumstances. Apples and Avalanches: An Exploration of Caring for the Severely Mentally Ill provides the perspective of a therapist and daughter on how we go through life with mental health issues. It is a story of a woman who suffered from schizophrenia and cancer for several years and of her daughter’s perception of things from a caregiver’s position. Divided into three parts, it presents readers with a relatable story with guidance for the caregiving journey, tools for healing our mental health, and considerations for future mental health treatment. Intended for families and caregivers for those with mental health issues, this personal narrative and guide teaches you to love yourself and your loved one through the caregiving experience and how to heal through any stage of that process.
About the Author
Heather Scherf, MS, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania who works with people from age three through adulthood. She earned a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Chatham University. She has worked in a variety of clinical settings, including outpatient and private practice offices, home/community-based programs, and research-based programs. She has training in behavioral therapy, grief, and loss concerns and is a certified HeartMath specialist.