Answering Your Questions!

[@LivingWellAfterSchizophrenia]

JOIN OUR ONLINE PEER SUPPORT COMMUNITY Schizophrenia Peer Support Community: www.schizophreniapeersupport.com General Mental Illness Peer Support Community: www.onlinepeersupport.com

[@florevanderbaan7969]

As someone who was fairly recently diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder and haven’t yet gotten control of it with meds or therapy, your videos make my very lonely, scary world a bit brighter. Thank you🖤

[@shamimobuyagard978]

Hey I think ur really brave 😉 plus I would love to have a friend like you

[@Rustyshack33]

Good luck, you can do this!

[@millisagable1318]

Stay Strong

[@dhirendrasamdhan7299]

u r nt alone,n u r veri brave, u got dis, take one day at a time,

[@aaymathebest4705]

@@pvdm4684 hi sister,Is your brother suffered from sczophernia?...if medicines aren't effecting,please speak to your doctor,best medicines are olanzapine,clozapine for sczophernia,even doctor use for bipolar,mania,and for other problems as well...why does he cry,ask the reason please?,don't leave him alone also may be he loves,likes somebody,he has a grief inside maybe

[@ericagoehring1089]

I am a person of faith, and I really appreciate the way you handled the question about religious or spiritual beliefs. Thank you for being respectful and helpful in your answer.

[@stoneyvowell1239]

I agree I thought she handled that question very well.

[@glopez4919]

I'm a person of faith as well and it's very painful to see the struggles that ppl can have. Especially when we know there's a mighty God that can helps and heal us but not everyone can identify themselves to that idea. But we can pray for a miracle.

[@stoneyvowell1239]

@@glopez4919 I'm not really into the "GOD" aspect so much. I do believe in some kind of bigger power. I guess I would be considered a spiritual person though. Whether it's God or something to have faith in I think is what makes us spiritual. We believe in something we cannot see or touch. Some would say that's a delusion but that doesn't make it bad and worth medicating away or canceling.

[@glopez4919]

@@stoneyvowell1239 Very interesting. I think it's definitely worth to give God a chance I've seen so many beautiful conversion stories it's amazing what he can do if we only gave him a chance with all our heart. He wouldn't disappoint. I know he's always been by my side to protect and love me. He's waiting for us with his arms wide open.

[@jamiep7860]

While I’ve learned a lot and very much appreciate these videos, I must disagree with your statement that “faith is not evidenced-based” (this is a comment many people make, erroneously, for lack of research/investigation); and also disagree with the statement about fact-checking religious questions “as you would fact-check other delusions”-as if religion/faith is a delusion. I would t take the time to say so except for the fact that your statements can & likely do seriously affect many listening who are looking for a guidance & direction. I think it’s much safer to respond with something like, “I personally haven’t found enough evidence to support my own belief in a particular religious path, but I’m also currently not seeking that out.” There is actually an excellent and highly-rated book called, “Cold Case Christianity” which approaches faith logically & rationally: “Description: Written by an L. A. County homicide detective and former atheist, Cold-Case Christianity examines the claims of the New Testament using the skills and strategies of a hard-to-convince criminal investigator. “Christianity could be defined as a ‘cold case’; it makes a claim about an event from the distant past for which there is little forensic evidence. In Cold-Case Christianity, J. Warner Wallace uses his nationally recognized skills as a homicide detective to look at the evidence and eyewitnesses behind Christian beliefs. Including gripping stories from his career and the visual techniques he developed in the courtroom, Wallace uses illustration to examine the powerful evidence that validates the claims of Christianity.”

[@iraknosral]

I’ve never heard of the Hearing Voices movement, and that movement just infuriates me. Psychosis can cause actual brain damage in addition to the stress of it.

[@nihil8436]

It's been proven over and over that it's the antipsychotics that damage the brain. Also, what's wrong with hearing voices network, that they refuse to be demeaned and stigmatised by the medical model?

[@iraknosral]

It’s not stigmatizing voices to treat them as what they are - symptoms. If we don’t stigmatize people with other biological illnesses to treat those symptoms, we aren’t stigmatizing voiced to treat them.

[@amandanena4114]

Thank you for sharing this. I am an oncology social worker and have been working with a patient who has schizophrenia and he has quickly become one of my favorite patients! We must break the stigma around this diagnosis. He has a such a sweet soul 💕

[@NeonnBalloons]

Pregnancy looks so good on you!! You’re glowing 💕☺️

[@victoryforthefree1606]

She is beautiful

[@Rustyshack33]

Thank you so much for being such a wonderful ambassador not only for people affected by schizophrenia but for people affected by mental illness as a whole. I am so glad I found your channel and I've learned so much by watching these videos. You're a beautiful, eloquent, intelligent woman. 🖤

[@manicantsettleonausername6789]

I love how you are able to strike a balance between being professional and giving thoughtful advice, but also keeping it personal and letting your personality shine through, without it being too personal as well. I can imagine that's not easy to do, and I applaud you for it. I loved that you included the little section of the more unrelated lifestyle questions between all the more serious questions. Anyway, thank you for making this video and I wish you a wonderful 2021!

[@tiushkabidla2385]

I find ur videos to be so helpful that I can't even describe it. The way you put out the thoughts of a person who is mentally ill is commendable. I myself suffer from mental problems. Thank u so much for ur great videos and content. Greetings from India🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳 ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@mysticgirl]

I soooo agree with you on the "hearing voices movement". I'm not from America, but we have a similar organization in my country, they view psychosis as this healthy spiritual thing that some people need to go through, and instead of conventional treatments like therapy, meds, hospitals etc they want things like shamanism, homeopathy and healing as treatments for mental illness. They're extremely outspoken and angry in the media, and unfortunately have caught the attention of some politicians... This movement isn't healthy, it's insulting to those who struggle mentally and have finally gotten a diagnosis that explains why their brains work the way they do.

[@sayeedahmed2772]

may god bless you protect you and guide you

[@tamarabradberry9299]

I follow you as my loved one has schizophrenia, but just want to say I hope you are feeling well with your pregnancy. You are a rock star and proud of you and your work. Looking forward to you and Rob and the arrival of baby. God bless, I pray for you often. My son is now listening to these videos as well...huge step.

[@junimondify]

I can really relate to this. Schizoaffective disorder has truly held me back from several jobs I wanted to do and made pursuing a career difficult. Love the hair btw, so girly and light!

[@katewilliams5230]

thank you for sharing your experience and making others with mental illness feel heard and seen

[@shakeytoby]

You're such a dear person. I wish you, Rob and your children a wonderful life. You deserve it. 💛

[@stevec3872]

My 29 year old daughter has been diagnosed schizoaffective/bipolar after years of being diagnosed with schizophrenia. She is still in a mental healthcare facility and I haven't seen her in a year and she is at the point now where all the work she is able to do is to put furniture parts into plastic bags because she just can't concentrate.

[@Kimberly_Viktoria]

just wanted to say thank you for your channel, it made me start one where I talk about my own schizophrenia (its in Swedish) and the response I get from it is amazing, i also love how educational you are! really helped me when I was struggling

[@heathercrumpler5353]

SW it is not demonic spirits. It is a lack of the correct amount of dopamine in the brain.

[@heathercrumpler5353]

SW my grandpa had bipolar disorder and OCD. He went to church every Sunday. He was a wonderful Christian man his whole life. He still had to go to the mental hospital several times a year. He still had to take Lithium and have electric shock therapy. Yes, he didn’t have enough Serotonin in his brain. People with schizophrenia do not create enough dopamine in the brain. God create us all and not everyone was given a perfect brain or body. Are you saying that God takes away all afflictions? Yes, my Grandpa was given a new body and mind when he passed away and went to Heaven at age 79. Sometimes people do not heal to they get to Heaven. Some people have to take medications for Alzheimer’s or Cerebral Palsy. So you think people who have disabilities just need to pray and it all goes away. Well, that would be Heaven on earth- but really you don’t know what it is like to have a damaged brain. You just talk. I inherited bipolar and OCD from my grandpa, as well as my Aunt Marilyn and two of my first cousins. We all have to take medication to have a semi-normal life. I am a Christian and go to church. Right now COVID has church closed and services are online. Guess what? I still have a chemical imbalance in my brain.

[@heathercrumpler5353]

SW really? No I have never done street drugs. When I was born I was delayed by six months and my twin sister was normal. I was born with inherited genetic traits. Before you ask, no my mother did not drink or take medication when she was pregnant. Actually, my mom had a natural birth with no medication. You don’t understand OCD. It is more than checking to see if the car is locked. You don’t know anything. You can pray to God every second of the day. God is always with me and still I have a mental illness. No mental illness is not caused by street drugs. You think my great grandmother had street drugs when she had my grandpa in 1910? My great grandmother had 9 children. My grandpa was the only one that had the worst of the illness. His siblings showed some signs of OCD and mood issues. You are dealt the one that is lost. It is people like you who do not understand. You don’t understand what you don’t have to deal with. We are born with whatever God gives us. Some people are born with everything, some without limbs, some people are born blind or deaf. That is the human condition- the soul is what is perfect. Don’t confuse God and drugs with the fact that some people are not born normal. What makes you not normal is your inability to understand people with disabilities. Ever wonder why someone is born completely normal and later in develops Alzheimer’s disease or Traumatic Brian Injury after a bad car wreck. That is life and life is not fair. If you research OCD you will find it is actually a chemical imbalance in the brain. My nephew is showing signs of it.

[@marthastephen338]

@S W schizophrenia is not due to demonic spirits but due to problem in chemical composition of the brain.

[@marthastephen338]

@S W my mother was a good Christian.She had schizophrenia .After having medicine s ,she became alright.

[@user-ellievator]

Thank you, Lauren. I take a lot of inspiration and guidance from your videos. I have anxiety and PTSD, and much of what you talk about is relatable. You really are an amazing person, and a guiding light for our culture.

[@hebruixe9125]

I know this is off-topic but you're pretty enough to be a movie star! Lucky Rob, ha ha.

[@perarne1387]

I was just about to comment she looked like an actress which i can't remember the name of atm. I completely agree with your comment.

[@ambercharr307]

You are so right! I've thought that a couple of times now ☺️🥰

[@marlenebtagelman2451]

I agree!

[@does_it_matter_]

Yes, she is very beautiful. Which makes her a good spokeswoman. I recently got diagnosed with schitzoaffective. I youtubed and saw her pretty face made me click. Her openness,honestness and just looking at this really hard thing to deal with realistically. Thank the creator for her good looks and thank Both of you( thanks for ur help with the channel... Thank you.)

[@snoozyq9576]

@@perarne1387 yes it's driving me crazy wondering who she looks like! 😝

[@maryyoung4777]

Beautiful sweater 🤰🏼 your glowing Thank you very helpful

[@Ashley-Bradderz]

As much as I support neurodiversity, schizophrenia isn’t one of them, the things I did, what I put myself and family through, the delusions, the hallucinations, without treatment I’d most likely be found dead somewhere or even possibly hurt someone else, I’m not trying to add stigma or say I’m a violent person, I’m not, I’m just so delusional to think I’m a hero that will take down this evil covert organisation and harassing innocent people that cross my path, which often my Mum defended me against the teachers saying I need to be put in a psych ward which I eventually ended up 7 years later in September 2020 for arming myself with weapons waiting for the evil agents to show up and threatening my Occupational therapist over text. I was diagnosed with schizophrenia and I’m just glad no one got hurt, I was actually tricked into thinking the postman was outside and they got me and took me to a psych ward. Horrible experience, I’m honestly sticking to my treatment as best I can to never do the things that led to my arrest and taken to psychiatric ward. Great video btw, just thought I’d add to why I don’t support all forms of neurodiversity as schizophrenia is a horrible brain disorder that needs treatment rather than a difference in human variation to be accepted.

[@shamimobuyagard978]

😔 sorry for the whole sychiatric ward and yeah am with you it needs treatment#can I be ur friend?plz

[@user-ellievator]

I'd like to hear an interview between you and Lauren, since you have different viewpoints. I think this is an aspect of the condition that should be addressed, at least as something that people have differnt opinions about. Talked about in a civil and respectful way. It is a challenging topic. Full disclosure: I have not been diagnosed with schizophrenia, but have been diagnosed with Anxiety and PTSD.

[@stephaniedontask769]

THANK YOU! Thank you for your honesty and transparency. This video is a wealth of information and I appreciate you sharing your story. ❤ ❤ ❤

[@user-wb2yv7ll9d]

It's videos like these that show Lauren doesn't have much in the way of cognitive symptoms, she is on the ball in that regard.

[@aristapaz2672]

Thanks so much for yet another valuable video! Your efforts to support, educate and inform everyone about mental health issues are tremendously helpful for me and many others!

[@zuhurdualeh1963]

I am mental health nurse and I appreciate you and your outlook. Your insight is uplifting

[@freddiemontenegro2187]

Thank you for create this channel and share your experiencie, its really helpful.

[@sophiapapp7721]

This is my favorite video of yours so far! It does a wonderful job of discussing the themes and nuances in your life, and ties in many of your previous videos into it in a synergistic way. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on a broad range of topics!

[@anacristinaroma4769]

You are incredible!!!! 👏🏻👏🏻🥰

[@Sarendy]

Thank you so much Lauren for all of your videos. As someone who had undergone many different diagnosis throughout the years, and finally finding out that I was misdiagnosed until last year, I have been trying to find more information on schizoaffective disorder. You tell the information in such an educational way as well as from your own perspective and I appreciate that.

[@lunabootcampnews6439]

Don't be sorry you are helpful

[@mayacabang]

You do such a great job at being thorough and helpful!! You should be proud of yourself, I know this information is helping people tremendously.

[@damadjanka]

The I’m sorry in the beginning of the video was the most Canadian thing I’ve seen you do 😂

[@peterjp2058]

It’s a very British thing too :)

[@michaelheintz5300]

2 great and underseen movies about Schizophrenia: "Take Shelter" and "Mad to be Normal."

[@lolabeecher1413]

You are my present therapist. I have not been able to see my psychiatrist yet because of covid 19 but will be soon.

[@NightmareGale]

Thank you so much for making this channel. My birth dad and his father who my family doesn't talk to have schizophrenia, in the last year I was told I have complex ptsd with depression and anxiety. But now I just don't know I like to stay on top of what symptoms are like cause I'm nearing the age where it will be developing if I have it. Talking to therapists is a very scary thing for me. Last year I did go to the hospital (Stayed there for a few days) which is when I was told about the ptsd, anxiety and depression (which just seems like a lot and would make more sense to have one thing lol). But they kept referring to me having a psychotic like episode cause I was just really overwhelmed by some situational things. I think I'm gonna try reaching out and getting set up with some new people.

[@laurieberry4814]

I was employed for thirty years. After getting hypothyroidism, I quit and I haven’t been working for months. I guess that I am exhausted.

[@ItsWillieGirl.1960]

Good morning Lauren 😊😊 & Happy 2021 to you, Rob & your family. As always, it's a pleasure to see you, as I, along with others I know personally glean, & garner such helpful information from your channel & the content you deliver 🦋🦋. You look so radiant Lauren. Clearly pregnancy agrees with you 🌸🌸!! Continued good health, & happiness to you, & your Subscribers 🙏🏽🙏🏽!! #KeepTalkingAboutMentalIllness

[@maximwilson1482]

Lauren, you are amazing! I've learned so much from this channel :-)

[@rpink8531]

You have a beautiful smile. You glow. Thank you for sharing your courageous journey 💝

[@Cptscotia]

I find your videos really insightful into what it is like for you and potentially others experiencing schizoaffective disorder. I am a mental health nurse and it is extremley brave of you experiencing your own difficulties. I have experienced psychotic depression so I have had similar experiences to you, so i feel i can relate. I hope you keep well and hope that your experiences dont hold you back too much : )

[@664049]

Thank you for sharing your experiences. I appreciated how transparent and honest you were about your journey. This was a great video.

[@idsmgntllc3660]

at about 18:20, the question was asked, has your illness impeded your career aspirations?, I noticed your took a deep sigh, encapsulated with a sadness of acceptance/ on the tip of crying almost (maybe I'm wrong), but your strength, your videos, your demeanor, has given hope to an 18 year old women in my life, my GF, and I, because your current path of #livingwellwithschizophrenia and your production content, etc. Is life changing for us !!!! in a hopeless world, stigmatized, and cynical, especially by those of whom we love most, in our families even , experience outcast, and ridicule. Believe me when I say God (YHWH), thought of you before you were born, and his plan may have been inconceivable, but just know your impact and continued production of content, is live saving, an anchor for those of us without the financial means or resources, or information. I truly tell you, your purpose in these videos, are very much appreciated and well received. Thank you for your honesty and courage. As a man whom is not rich, and selfish when it comes to money in my life as far as donations, I am glad to contribute to your current career, a path that leads the way, a way so hard and traveled by few in your condition. Your our hero, May God , Jesus Christ bless you and your family..... from the wholeheartedness of our hearts. A Deep Thank you. Keep on keeping on ! Your da SHGIT CHICA, Your a Marvel to watch and see...

[@ccbunn]

I appreciate this Q&A so much I have to share. The reason someone lives with any diagnosis is unique to them. It was hard for me to accept I would live with the diagnosis for life, even if that was said to me. I choose to move past it (which was hard) because I did not respond well. I am so thankful I had the support of my treatment team to support an improvement in remission. I am still going and better without treatment. :)

[@forantimeena3876]

Luv u proud of u ❤

[@BethanySchwarz5678]

When in the relationship did you tell Rob about your illness, or where do you think would be a good time. I have a hard time knowing when.

[@shannoneuneke9402]

@Lulu Swack which video ? I was looking through and watched a couple and couldn’t point out the when and how she told him and like how they met.

[@snuffyscorner]

I think with my bipolar I've struggled with God related delusions. What helped me before I even knew it was part of my mental illness was fact checking. Checking the beliefs I had internally with what I had learned and it kept me from indulging in my delusions. It's still hard because on one hand my mind knows they aren't real but on the other hand, it feels like these beliefs are real.

[@shamimobuyagard978]

Hey so sorry 😔a virtual hug coming right up🤗

[@peggypain460]

I always enjoy Lauren's videos. Its what people need whether you are a supporter or a person with a mental illness. For the first time I have to say that wonder if it is appropriate to decide if there is a God or not based on the struggle some have with delusions. The Bible has many comforting words to help when feelings are a struggle. Its a process to grapple with such a big issue as to the existence of a creator, and as such should not be a part of a consideration of schizophrenia and other conditions. Still I support the process of giving a life lived video. It really has been a good thing.

[@analiciafeliciano904]

Check out my comment about this too. I have schizotypal personality disorder and I totally understand that.

[@SunnyJarvis]

Hi Lauren and Rob! I'm happy to has discovered your channel today. I am a peer mentor by profession and have my first mentee who lives with schizophrenia. We are working together at coming up with some tactile methods/items to use for coping and coming back to reality when an episode comes on. The ones being used not seem to have lost their "steam", so to say. Thanks for all you do to share your message, encourage wellness, and provide opportunities for us to get involved.

[@michaelforis4496]

You are an amazing person that sets example for conditioned people and others that look in so beautiful

[@Lynn_Clifton]

I love that sweater, look at you, you're GLOWING. You're radiant! I can't believe how beautiful you look little mama! Loved the Q & A, learned a lot as usual :)

[@lillypicadilly4048]

Do you consider yourself neurodivergent? We share a lot of similar qualities but I've never been diagnosed (or even assessed) schizophrenic. I have been diagnosed Aspergers/autism spectrum. My voices are what I consider angelic and I believe it's channeling. It's very personal to me and i see it as a gift instead of a 'mental illness'. This was a HUGE Paradigm shift.

[@necronyx7176]

Yes! I really liked Netflix's Maniac. May rewatch it soon.

[@arturotorres1922]

Thank you for existing.

[@ericer5248]

Hi Lauren, I am a social work student and I hope to become a counsellor in the future. I am coming here once again to say how thankfull I am for your initiative and your channel. Thank you so much for this! To be able to learn about mental health through people's lived experience has been a fundamental aspect in shaping my personal and professional practice framework. You are an amazing person

[@melissahalloran5564]

Thank you from Birmingham UK

[@georgerutherford8535]

So impressed with how you have dealt with this and have chosen to share as a method to help others. You should be proud. Be well.

[@samantha6302]

Very informative video, Brilliant!

[@mh6276]

I wish that there was a channel like this for every mental disorder in the book(as in the DSM-5). BTW I have ASD and ADHD.

[@stephendewoody3778]

Have you thought about making a series of videos that tackle the problem with alcohol or drug abuse? I have a diagnosis and struggled with alcohol and drugs. A twelve step program helped me a lot in a positive way. Thanks for the videos and congratulations on the pregnancy.

[@genevievecekoh5740]

This is an extraordinary video. It is incredibly helpful. Thank you so much.

[@zachallred9675]

Very good video (sped it up because I'm busy) and thanks for reaching out for questions that people have.

[@danielnepveux97E]

Thank you so much for this educational and wonderful video friend. Y'all are amazing.

[@dhirendrasamdhan7299]

also i wantd 2 say i tink ur n real blessin to ppl wu graple wih d illness n ur doin gods wrk by addressin real issues we schizo face,tnx again

[@pturner19702]

I am so scared of becoming unwell and going back into hospital as it is a horrible place and I hate being delusional. My last episode lasted 3 months.

[@NightOwl_30]

Your channel is important

[@tamarabradberry9299]

Love your sweater...too cute!

[@dannykeko4365]

Good job love your videos youv saved my life in so many ways

[@seerguru]

Give me hope for it looks like what my son has. We are getting over the shock and broken hearted all at once

[@galalon2417]

Makes me feel good. I already feel better. Her smile.

[@WhatsRobin101]

I'm tired of my mom saying I'm just seeing spirits and that I don't have schizophrenia

[@wildflowersmilkhoney503]

Lauren, do you find that in your life you have been a sort of magnet for strange experiences (real as apposed to psychosis) like knocking on your windows & doors or vans pulling up to you or through your driveway? In addition to what is going on in your mind? How did you build a trust relationship with your doctors or authorities when you feel at times you have been mistreated, misdiagnosed or ignored? Are you religious? Do you find that you have heightened spirituality? I love the idea of incorporation of your strengths into your career life. 🤍

[@erisinger]

I would love it if you made a vlog style video like a day in my life or go shopping with me or get ready for the day!! That'd be so cool

[@doctorturkleton]

When you talked about your journey toward accepting your diagnosis I was reminded of a movie I just watched that you might find interesting - it’s called The Sound of Metal on Amazon and it’s about a metal drummer who goes deaf and his struggle with wanting to return to the way things were before versus accepting his new circumstances. It’s a really beautiful movie and even though it’s not about schizophrenia I think it’s something a lot of people with mental illness can relate to. Anyway, I love your videos and thanks so much for the work you do!!! My roommate has schizophrenia and your channel has been so helpful in educating myself ❣️❣️

[@guyoncouchreadsthenews]

I'm proud athiest too. A friend tried to talk me I was agnostic but I knew I was atheist. We do not live in a simulation.

[@jparsons1974]

you have a wonderful laugh,

[@jacobsmith7818]

This is a gift I’m a shaman

[@joeldupuis4182]

The idea from Mania to not put schizophrenia at the center of the character is the essence of acceptance. To acknowledge its existence yet to understand its not who you are and therefore develop the skills to manage with schizophrenia.

[@pturner19702]

Hi I have had several diagnosis my latest 1 is schizoaffective disorder. I am on a mood stabiliser and depot injection. I don't have much support from service's or from a psychiatrist

[@danielchilson6972]

You seem so stable... Please friend Jeannie Choi. She lives with these disorders... I love her, however it's a struggle...

[@keol56]

❤

[@uniayang]

What a lovely Q&A! I like your approach to illness and their impact on your career. I have always been irritated by the everything-happens-for-reason explanation for anything negative in life. For me it is more helpful to say that bad things happen, they suck and it is possible to live with it. And yes, my mental illness has also kept me from pursuing careers that I wanted.

[@arel50]

I came across someone in the hearing voices movement who said my hallucinations cause me distress cause I'm American, and I just need to move to Asia or somewhere that has people with more positive hallucinations. She also said my hallucinations and delusions were a spiritual gift. Nothing could sway her. Smh 🤦‍♂️

[@lunabootcampnews6439]

Kindly explain perhaps why the voices are only negitive, scary or violent.

[@SquiddlyInk]

thank you

[@jacquelinethereseplunkett221]

I wish we had a statement of mental wellbeing and not waiting until mental disease or harm before intervention..

[@nihil8436]

What do you mean?, are you trying to say that people should be deprived of their autonomy and liberty before becoming ill?

[@jacquelinethereseplunkett221]

@@nihil8436 no I'm saying that people should have standards for mental health to aim for. That way when we say someone is mentally unfit... it doesn't mean crazy or inability to provide legal consent. Don't you think this area of medicine is neglect until extreme disaster. Yes... chronic mental illness is a burden like chronic obesity is. But with mental health we need the population to aspire to aspire to mental health...and mental strength... But have those with chronic mental illness or stages of mental illness acknowledged and supported. Then the mentally ill or diseased ppl without insight are the state intervention types.

[@kimberlybrown1301]

“The good news is the bad news could be good news if you change your point of view”

[@pearcat6496]

Thank you Lauren for the great information

[@jacquelineleitch7050]

As for lost careers, but of course. Your podcasts are definitely helping destigmatize Schizophrenia and helps people be less afraid of it in ourselves and with others, and this can be helpful with regard to careers in the future as we work with our biochemical neurochemical mental health in society. When I first became ill, the disease was basically a death sentence to careers and family. This further encouraged the authoritarian control over Schizophrenia and mental illness. Nobody wanted to admit they had it because the reaction was/is so severe. Cops were killing Schizophrenics. Still do. There's a career killer for you.

[@x0xallysonx0x]

I really love your sweater, pretty color on you!

[@leaweekes-randall991]

Love your content, love watching videos about psychosis from someone who has experienced psychosis, makes all the 'normal' things seem so much more possible, I.e. work and relationships

[@Beth-pf6oo]

This is a serious question, I'm in no way being glib... but do they have any idea as to why hallucinations and delusions tend to be negative? The voices, the commands, the paranoia, always seem to be dark and self-destructive. Do schizophrenics ever have good hallucinations? Has a voice ever said " You look gorgeous today, sit back and enjoy a cup of tea, you deserve it" What is it in the brain that makes these symptoms so dark? I wonder if there is any research about this.

[@infinityawaitsus]

this is actually mainly a western culture things, probably having to do with how medicalized and stigmatized this disease is here. a lot of non western cultures report much more positive hallucinations and delusions.

[@laurieberry162]

I was diagnosed with bipolar one disorder at last diagnosis. In the hospital, I used words lik slut and whore. The people who worked there said we don’t use words like that. I felt good that the words my dad used were rejected. I don’t believe that I ever needed treatment. I needed to move out of a verbally abusive dysfunctional family.

[@watchthisheadspace]

I think the question about what to get a person with schizophrenia meant as in something helpful to their condition rather than as a person. Like something that may help them stay grounded or feel less anxious

[@daveygrace2318]

Really enjoyed the Q and A. Good luck with 2021 I’ll be thinking of you xxx Best wishes Davey Grace xx

[@analiciafeliciano904]

Heyo! I am someone who has been diagnosed with schizotypal personality disorder. I am a bit of a rare case where I also have hallucinations (auditory and visual); people do not, usually, have any hallucinations with these. Symptoms can include many things that people with schizophrenia have, such as paranoia, isolation (due to an excessive personality or social anxiety), unusual speech, the idea certain “events” have a different/bigger meaning, unusual thinking/perception. My hallucinations are mostly auditory, where I hear voices, and sometimes things outside of just the voices in my head, ie: a knock on the door, someone saying something I may not have heard like if they called my name. I also have visual hallucinations too, like seeing bug(s) crawling on me, seeing someone out of the corner of my eye, seeing people that may not be there every now and again (rare), and a few that occur when slipping into psychosis, which will usually happen if I’m going into depression and/or anxiety. To answer the religious question, in my own opinion, I would say it can be very difficult to still navigate faith, but not impossible at all. I am spiritual, not religious, but I did used to be a Christian and in the seventh grade, I decided to do my own research on different religions. I didn’t, necessarily, agree with every aspect of any specific religion, which is why I identify as spiritual, rather than religious. The reason I did the research was mot because of my disorder, but when finally deciding what I do believe, navigating WHAT I believed is where clot can be tricky. I believe in what I call God, who I pray to for guidance. The guidance I wish for can be through “signs,” but instead of relying on signs and looking for them (this can trigger me and have me slip into psychosis), I usually depend on opportunities. So, say I need help with patience, I would think that my God would give me a situation where I have the choice to be patient, not a place I could go to do so or a specific, Devine person that knows a way. I also believe in having faith in my God. So, if I’m going through a rough time (such as grief, as an example, which can also trigger my depression, and/or anxiety, which, in turn, can trigger my delusions), I can pray and/or I can remember that I do believe everything happens for a reason I may not know, and it may not be a huge, meaningful enlightening meaning, but something that CAN and WILL help guide me in the future, as I grow as a person. So, after losing someone close to me due to a fight, for example, instead of allowing myself to believe in it having a HIGHER and MIGHTIER meaning, which can lead me to fall into psychosis, I remember that other people have probably been through similar situations like this, and my going through this can give me the opportunity to grow as a person because most people have lost a loved one, most people grow from that experience, and most people can even benefit from their loss, gaining empathy, understanding, and (remember this loss I am using as an example is not due to death, but due to a fight) insight into who I should befriend next, and why negativity I should remove from my life. Having faith that I will get through a difficult situation is having faith in myself and that my God will help heal me through my grief. I will say, the one time I DID whole heartedly rely on any type of signs from God was through one of the lost traumatic period of my life. I prayed for him to answer me because I needed to hear my answers from Him myself if I were to know what to do. He did not voice to me anything, nor did he come to me in the form if something. I was in grade 8, at the time, and we had been learning about the colours of stars and what stage of their life they were in due to based on their colours. I looked to the stars, and I asked him to change a star’s colour of white to red (for a yes/no answer I questioned) and, miraculously, the star changed colour. I was amazed and doubtful, believing this had to be my imagination, so I continued to ask this for stars I lost the count of, changing them into different colours. Now, fully developed in my disorder, I often looked back at that moment, knowing that my disorder was developing since a young age, though it started off as a narrator in my head, which I had brushed off as my creativity since I like(d) to write, I decided to do this again, to see if it was just my subconscious trying to remove me from that traumatic experience and/or a visual hallucination. I was going through a different, rough experience, where I needed help and answers, so I did this and there was no change. I was depressed because of it, still unsure of what to do and still unsure if it proved anything. Low and behold, instead of getting a “sign” due to my faith, God gave me an opportunity (as I stated I rely on before) and I, truly, believe that proved what I wanted to know. It, actually, reaffirmed my faith, knowing that during a period of my life where I could easily slip into psychosis, I did not because of my God. It’s tricky to navigate your beliefs when it comes to spirituality and religion while having a disorder like this, but it is not impossible to do so without interference.

[@analiciafeliciano904]

I feel the need to also mention that I do not take medication for my disorder. I did try it for a short period of time, but I felt it hindered my ability to function, turning me into a zombie, slowing my actions, my thinking, my ability to speak the way I wanted to, etc. I tried different things, and it was not helpful for me, personally. I do, however, believe medication CAN help others and fully support those who want to, need to, and do. I am only mentioned this because I feel it is an important factor for this question.

[@snuffyscorner]

I have had hallucinations a big will crawl beside me things warping and seeing a little red man out of the corner of my eye. I hear crowds sometimes and people call my name but this comes with Mania and leaves for the most part when the mania leaves.

[@debrajanzen6661]

I really appreciate your honesty and I can relate to everything you said in this video about sz. Thanks for addressing some really important issues like motivation and the fact that sz affects one's life goals.

[@JesusDiscipleNicholas]

I have been diagnosed with MDD, but I did experience very similar experiences when using marijuana long term, as well as a constant fight between my brain and mind over control of whats going on in my mental space, anyone else experience this?

[@AbeVanDam]

Hi, Lauren. I wanted to thank you for your channel and its content. I also have schizophrenia (high functioning). I attempted a channel on this subject but because of paranoia I ended up bailing on it. That aside, I felt compelled to let you know how helpful it was for me to view you as a person hosting your videos. A person for all appearances is articulate, has ambitions, and seems "normal" even tho you have your struggles. I am the same. I don't "look" schizophrenic... Neither do I act it now that I'm medicated and have done the work to get well. I still can slide into delusional thinking and from time to time still have auditory hallucinations... But life has improved from over 16 years ago when I had my first inpatient experience. I now spend my time creating electronic dance music (mainly techno) that has been a consistent as a therapeutic tool throughout my years with schizophrenia. Anyways, thank you for your channel. I felt a connection that is rare given what I regularly deal with having this mental illness. All the best to you. I'm subscribed and looking forward to more content. Abe

[@does_it_matter_]

What could I do when my family really cares but dont understand(thankfully) and get upset (towards me)when after initial hospitalization my meds were not picked up properly from the BHU like they should have but due to a new doctor on that unit i was discharged against my wanting not picking up and continuing taking my meds. I have had issues since released and sometimes the meds I'm given make me not myself or sleep for 30hours. But i need to get back to my proper meds. Im also having a hardtime because i watched my dad go thru schitzophrenia and he didnt do things properly n now he reflects that typical schitzophrenic media "krazy" guy. I always prayed I wouldn't get it. Still coming to terms with it all I'm just trying my best when I can....yet I'm never at my best

[@kathleendigregorio1701]

Regarding Sylvia Plath - I am reading a new biography of Sylvia Plath by Heather Clark "Red Comet" published in 11-2020 and it is wonderfully researched and written.

[@jacquelinethereseplunkett221]

Man my mum was a Div 1 Nurse with Neuroscience degree and dad a GP. I wish you were my mum. (ELDEST OF 7 who was mums legal guardian when dad finally divorced her after she relapsed when he had a heart attack.)

[@PostTraumaticVictory]

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