When Shadows Take Over: Coping with the Loss of a Loved One to Schizophrenia and Suicide
Losing a loved one is always painful, but losing them to a battle with mental illness like schizophrenia and suicide is an ache unlike any
When I first started this blog, my vision was simple: to write about travel, share tips on exploring Vancouver Island, and capture the beauty of life’s little adventures. I wanted to keep things light and inspiring—a place for people to escape, plan their next journey, or find a slice of joy.
But life has a way of steering you in directions you never planned for.
The Journey I Didn’t Expect
A year ago, I could never have imagined writing this post. Back then, I thought travel and home design would be my focus—a space to share sunsets over the island’s rugged coastline, cozy Airbnb decor tips, and the best local coffee shops. It was a way to celebrate the beauty of life while keeping things upbeat.
Yet, while I was writing about island trails and serene beaches, something deeper was stirring inside me. Behind the lighthearted posts was a grief I hadn’t fully addressed: the loss of my brother to schizophrenia and suicide.
For years, I couldn’t bring myself to talk about it. The pain was raw, the questions endless, and the stigma surrounding mental illness made it feel even harder to open up. So I poured my energy into my work as a social worker, hoping to help others while finding answers.
Losing a loved one is always painful, but losing them to a battle with mental illness like schizophrenia and suicide is an ache unlike any
When I first started this blog, my vision was simple: to write about travel, share tips on exploring Vancouver Island, and capture the beauty of
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