May Staff Recommendations
Michelle Obama: This is What Scares Me Most in Today’s America!
On the On Purpose podcast hosted by Jay Shetty, Michelle Obama and her brother, Craig Robinson, share their story—reflecting on their childhood experiences, overcoming interpersonal obstacles, the importance of therapy, confronting ongoing racism, and the power of good parenting.
Jocelyn shares, “This episode is one of my favorites—it’s insightful, thought-provoking, and raw in its honesty. In the episode, Michelle and Craig discuss the power and importance of good parenting and everything it entails. Fostering independence, trusting the process, believing in your children, and giving them the respect they deserve is vital to building a strong foundation for their future. Also, not forgetting to prioritize yourself in the process is equally important.”
Unfit Parent: A Disabled Mother Challenges an Inaccessible World
Recommended by Carolyne, one of our amazing CASAs, Unfit Parent: A Disabled Mother Challenges an Inaccessible World by Jessica Slice is a memoir that examines the challenges and strengths of disabled parenting. Diagnosed with POTS and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, the author shares her experiences of parenting emphasizing the adaptability and creativity that disabled parents often develop. The book critiques societal norms and systems that marginalize disabled parents. It highlights issues such as inaccessible healthcare, education, and the threat of child protective services.
Carolyne shares, “As a CASA, it highlights challenges for parents that I might not have otherwise known about and will help me advocate more intentionally for a more inclusive and compassionate approach as an advocate.”
States Still Fail To Rein in Psych Meds for Foster Youth
This article reveals the unsafe and unregulated use of psychotropics prescribed to children in foster care. Doctors prescribe children in foster care medications at a much higher rate than their peers. There are no policies regulating the use of psychotropic medication for children in foster care in at least 10 states. The lack of regulations has raised alarms. These children are at increased risk for obesity, suicidal behavior, and metabolic and cardiovascular problems associated with antipsychotic usage. Alicia Bissonette, a former foster youth, recounts how doctors heavily medicated her while she was in foster care, revealing the lack of attentive care. She describes how medical professionals used medications a quick fix for behavioral issues rather than seeking safer, more health-conscious alternatives.
Darcy shares, “The Imprint is a news site dedicated to child welfare stories and investigative pieces. Many of the writers and reporters have firsthand experience with the child welfare system. This piece is part one of a three-part series that sheds light on the incredibly high rates of psychotropic medications prescribed to children in foster care, when compared to their peers who are not embroiled in the child welfare system. Many of our children are on multiple medications. One for anger issues. One for depression. One for anxiety. One for sleep issues…the list goes on and on. Definitely worth a read and hopefully, these articles spark some conversations and change.”