M. S. S. W. Ira Schulte

Everything I Learned about Mental Health Began at Twenty-Two: My Personal Journey

• Broschiertes Buch

Produktbeschreibung

Mental health is an epidemic in our modern society. In this book, I explore this issue and its many complex facets by discussing my many years of experience as a social worker and psychotherapist, along with my personal journey dealing with my own mental health issues with the help of three different therapists over a span of almost fifty years. I use real life narratives to illuminate personal struggles of various individuals dealing with life's challenges and accomplishments. I interweave stories and lessons learned from some of my clients, close friends and family. I also delve into my own mental health issues, including anger management, my need for attention and recognition, as well as my learning to appreciate and savor the good things in life. In this book, there are suggestions on finding the right therapist and about the therapeutic process. I explore the importance of deep analysis and exploration of feelings and thoughts, along with the steps to take to address one's problems. Change is difficult and it does take time, commitment and effort. I discuss how one can grow and develop, but also how emotional triggers can set one back. I outline the multitude of issues in our society and their contributions to our mental health ailments, such as bullying, mass killings, terrorism, racial inequities, women's rights, immigration, LGBTQ+ rights, the 1/6/2021 insurrection, climate change, Covid, suicide, and the political currents that led us to a national mental health crisis. I stress the importance of learning from others, especially those who have and continue to face enormous challenges, the value of giving back to the less fortunate, and how to live life fully with humor and much more!

Produktdetails

• Verlag: Nextone Inc
• Seitenzahl: 170
• Erscheinungstermin: 6. Mai 2023
• Englisch
• Abmessung: 216mm x 140mm x 10mm
• Gewicht: 222g
• ISBN-13: 9798822912434
• Artikelnr.: 67796930

Autorenporträt

I am a 73 year old man whose professional training and education include an MSSW (Master's of Science in Social Work) from Columbia University. My first professional career was as a social worker and psychotherapist specializing in helping the most disabled individuals and their families, as well as the aged. My own health and mental health problems began at the age of twenty six, and those combined with my many years working with clients, friends and family convinced me of the powerful connection between the mind and the body, and mental and physical health. Eight years ago I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and was considered very high risk. I've undergone numerous hormonal treatments, radiation therapy, cyberknife, and cryotherapy. All of these experiences are now entwined with my values, beliefs and ultimately my life and choices. I have been with the same woman for fifty years, married for forty- seven. My best friend I have known since I was seventeen years old, and I have lived in the same house for forty-three years. So one side of me is clearly a creature of habit, while the other is a questioner, contrarian and independent thinker, but who still struggles with my own mental health issues.I have two adult children who are married and have given us two young, amazing grandchildren. They all give us great joy, happiness and reasons to live. But now even in semi-retirement, I feel I must continue to reach out and hopefully help others.