

The Churn
6 snips Apr 5, 2025
Heidi Aurand, a devoted mother advocating for mental healthcare reform, shares her emotional journey as she fought to support her son Adam through his struggles with severe mental illness. Lou Middleton opens up about his own path to recovery, spotlighting the vital roles of self-awareness and community support. Together, they explore the systemic failures of mental health care in the U.S., the challenges faced by families in crisis, and the urgent need for comprehensive care to prevent further tragedies.
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Adam Aurand's Story
- Adam Aurand, a mechanic, experienced psychosis, paranoia, and substance use.
- He cycled through hospitals, jails, and the streets, highlighting the "churn" in mental health systems.
Discharge to Homelessness
- Despite showing improvement on medication at Western State Hospital, Adam was discharged.
- He refused a halfway house and ended up in a homeless shelter, against his family's wishes.
Lost to the System
- Adam's mom, Heidi, found him on the streets via traffic cameras and tried to help.
- Despite her efforts, Adam refused further treatment and was lost to the system again.