This episode is deeply personal, vulnerable and I hope it brings you hope. It's a reflection on a blog post I published titled “Coping with a Child’s Mental Health Struggles and Finding Joy in the Everyday” (July 23, 2025), which resonated with so many of you. Thank you for your support, shares, and kind words—it means the world to my family and me.Today’s episode explores what it means to parent a child with bipolar depression, and more broadly, what it means to hold space for a loved one navigating mental health challenges. It's not easy—and yet, it’s one of the most courageous acts of love there is.We’ll talk about:The difference between pain and suffering as parentsHow to bear witness to your child’s internal battlesWhy joy is not betrayal—it’s essential for survivalWhat coregulation is and how your calm presence supports healingThe quiet heroism of showing up again and againWhen and how to seek professional helpWhy you’re never alone, even when it feels like itThis episode is especially for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone walking alongside someone they love through mental illness. Whether you're living this reality yourself or holding space for someone who is—you belong here.Key Quotes:"Joy isn’t a betrayal of suffering—it’s an act of balance. A way of telling the world: we are still here.""You don’t have to say the perfect thing—you just have to keep showing up.""Your calm can be a sanctuary. Not because you're perfect, but because you’re present."Topics We Touch On:Parenting a child with bipolar depressionThe emotional toll and resilience of caregivingWhy mental health conversations must be normalizedThe sacredness of small, ordinary joysThe value of asking for help and early interventionHow parents can model vulnerability and emotional regulationMentioned in the Episode:Blog Post: Coping with a Child’s Mental Health Struggles and Finding Joy in the Everyday (Published July 23, 2025)Visit our website for resources: www.storyofusproject.comFollow along and share on Instagram & Facebook @storyofusprojectNote from Jeff:If you’re walking through something similar, I see you. Your presence, your patience, and your love make a difference—even if the results aren’t visible yet. You’re doing sacred work. Stay with it. And never forget—you are not alone.If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it.Until next time—stay present, stay loving, and hold on to the sparks of joy.

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