Clozapine and Lexapro for Schizophrenia

Welcome to a discussion of Lexapro (Escitalopram) and Clozapine for treating depression and anxiety in schizophrenia. Depression and anxiety are negative symptoms of schizophrenia that have affected me since the onset of my schizophrenia in 2012. We also talk about what depression is like for me, the reasons for my depression, and social withdrawal.
Introduction
Living with schizophrenia can be a complex and challenging experience, often accompanied by negative symptoms such as depression and anxiety. Here, we explore the use of Lexapro (Escitalopram) and Clozapine in treating these symptoms, drawing on personal experiences since the onset of schizophrenia in 2012. We will also delve into the nature of depression and social withdrawal in the context of schizophrenia, offering insights into how these symptoms can manifest and impact daily life.
Depression and Anxiety as Negative Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Depression and anxiety are common negative symptoms in schizophrenia, often presenting alongside positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. These negative symptoms can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, affecting their ability to engage in social interactions, maintain relationships, and carry out daily activities.
Personal Experience with Depression
Depression in the context of schizophrenia can manifest in various ways. For some, it may involve persistent sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness. In contrast, for others, it may lead to a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities or a decrease in motivation.
In this case, depression has been a significant factor since the onset of my schizophrenia in 2012. Some reasons for depression may include the following:
The impact of schizophrenia on daily life: The symptoms of schizophrenia can make it challenging to maintain a sense of normalcy and engage in day-to-day activities, leading to feelings of frustration and sadness.
Social withdrawal: The experience of depression and anxiety can result in a desire to withdraw from social situations, further exacerbating feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Stigma and self-perception: The stigma surrounding schizophrenia may contribute to feelings of shame or worthlessness, affecting one's self-image and mental well-being.
Lexapro (Escitalopram) for Treating Depression and Anxiety in Schizophrenia
Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. In schizophrenia, Lexapro can help manage depressive and anxiety symptoms that often co-occur with the disorder. By increasing the availability of serotonin in the brain, Lexapro can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of well-being.
Clozapine: Addressing Negative Symptoms of Schizophrenia
While Clozapine is primarily prescribed for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, it has also shown promise in addressing negative symptoms, including depression and anxiety. As an atypical antipsychotic, Clozapine works on multiple neurotransmitter systems in the brain, helping to balance mood and alleviate negative symptoms.
Navigating Social Withdrawal
Social withdrawal is a common consequence of depression and anxiety in schizophrenia. It involves retreating from social interactions, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. To counter social withdrawal, it is crucial to:
Seek professional help: A mental health professional can provide guidance and support in managing depressive and anxiety symptoms and help develop strategies for engaging in social situations.
Engage in social activities: While it may be challenging initially, taking small steps to participate in social activities can gradually build confidence and reduce feelings of isolation.
Maintain open communication: Keeping loved ones informed about your experiences and struggles can help foster understanding and create a supportive environment for recovery.
Develop a self-care routine: Incorporating activities that promote relaxation and emotional well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies, can help counter the effects of depression and anxiety.
Conclusion
Living with schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety can be a daunting journey, but with the proper support, medication, and coping strategies, it is possible to find hope and healing. Stephen's experiences shared here illustrate the potential benefits of Lexapro and Clozapine in managing depressive and anxiety symptoms in schizophrenia. By opening up about these experiences, we hope to foster greater understanding, reduce stigma, and inspire others to seek the help and support they need to overcome the challenges of living with schizophrenia.
As we continue to explore the complexities of schizophrenia and its impact on mental health, we encourage our readers to stay informed, seek support, and share their own experiences. Together, we can work towards a brighter future for individuals with schizophrenia and their loved ones.

[@cherylmiller2272]

Good morning Stephen. This video is phenomenal! I appreciate your desire to heal, and to help others along the way. I can see your channel growing by leaps and bounds!! Your father's love and support for you is huge!! What a great family! Thank you for sharing your story. You shed great light on schizophrenia, and give hope to those who suffer with this illness. Thank you so much!

[@SchizophreniaSurvivor]

Thank you, Cheryl, for your support and encouragement!

[@elizabethwutzke9040]

I don't feel like I'll ever be happy again, since my former spouse passed away 3 years ago. Your videos are very comforting to me. Thank you so much for all you have shared in your videos.

[@Slidehhy]

How are you keeping now

[@G1806]

Hi Steven my name is Graham and I’m from Aberdeen in Scotland,I was on Clozapine and i unfortunately didn’t fare well on the Clozapine regime. I’ve been a critic of Clozapine and I’ve be irresponsible in past commentary. Young man you are an inspiration and I also was on another drug combination with Clozapine and i won’t go into details because this isn’t about me,we are individuals and no two people react the same in an exact manner. Sir you’re son is lucky to have such an intelligent and enlightened father in you. I wish you well and I hope that your recovery or the management of the illness. You have changed a highly biased opinion I shared unfairly,I still hold the same opinions however I’m very much regretful of my views unfairly expressed and expressed via comments on KZbin. Thank you both for your videos and bravery and you are helping people 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇺🇸

[@Patrick-xp3ep]

I am proud of you Stephen my schizophrenia is getting bad I am depressed all of the time now.

[@jeffmitchell5679]

Stephen :))))) Hello, we have recently found and started watching your awesome videos. You are such a strong, positive, and resilient person! Our daughter is 23 and is recently diagnosed with schizophrenia so your videos are so helpful to our family, as you share your journey and experiences. Your wisdom and maturity makes me so proud of you and your family. I love that you do candid and honest videos - you are truthful, you don't take away or add to your experiences - you give us the truth. I'm sure your journey has been very challenging. However, your very important You Tube work will help our community and the medical community grow in understanding, in order to provide better care and support for those of you, who I respect so highly, living with this disease called schizophrenia. - Many Blessing to You and Your Supportive Family, Melissa Mitchell :))) p.s. I look forward to staying tuned in to where your journey will lead you and where your interests take you ....

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for sharing and your support and your encouragement. Thank you for joining my journey. I wish you the very best for your daughter and your family!

[@bobbywood7530]

Rock on. You are amazing and so loved by your family. Thank you for being so transparent. You are an inspiration.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Bobby!

[@bobbywood7530]

@@SurvivingSchizophrenia We share similar issues, however I did not have the support you have had which has made me thankful for the courage you have to share. I am envious in all the right ways that you can sit beside your dad and tell your story, which is also his story. The bond you share is pure. Be well.

[@barneyronnie]

Thanks for your videos; I was diagnosed with hebrephrenic schizophrenia long before you were born, 1964! I, too, take clozapine now and find it helpful! Keep on keeping on... Good to hear that your physician titrated very slowly. That is always a prudent approach. One other thing: 'hebrephrenic schizophrenia ' is no longer a diagnosis 😊

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you! Happy you are enjoying my videos!

[@psrwhite]

Thank you so much Steve and Stephen. You are helping me so much to care for my loved one. I save your videos for reference. Thank you both so much!!

[@megansargent2938]

Steven im so proud of you!!! Im going to show my son your videos. He would relate to you in so many ways. Thank you for being brave. Your video will save luves❤

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much! That is awesome and makes me feel good!

[@whitdevereaux1871]

Thank you so much for creating this channel. Helps me significantly as a caregiver!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

You’re very welcome! Thank you for watching! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@silviareyes5267]

Hello Stephen, I appreciate you and your dad doing educational videos, like this one have a son who has been in this journey for about 14 years. God bless you in your journey through recovery ! 🙏🏼😊

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much!

[@aleksandracatt]

I have paranoid schizophrenia and I take olanzapine and fluoxetine. That combination of the medication has been the best for me but not enough, especially for negative symptoms such as depression and anxiety. But I also take CBD oil 5% few drops a day and I can say it has helped me with my anxiety the most, especially social anxiety. I feel like I handle social situations better. I still get depressed tho.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for sharing!

[@lucyshao5863]

Stephen, you are the best！ and your father is the best too. 加油！

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Lucy! My Dad says thanks as well!

[@Getagrip1942]

Anything with a Z in it your playing with fire 🔥

[@Planethollywood409]

I was in an earthquake in Penn Marr California Stephen scary. About year 1999. I took greyhound from Manhattan New York to Los Angeles California nose bleed when arrived I think different elevation passed through Colorado. Great Show.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for sharing

[@kzl7711]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@SchizophreniaSurvivor]

Thank you, Karina. Stephen showed me your post and he was very struck! With joy! Thank you. Steve

[@Planethollywood409]

Very mature father you have.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you

[@jayaldridge4444]

nice thing your family supports you.

[@SchizophreniaSurvivor]

Thank you for joining us on this journey, Jay. Take care. Steve

[@jeanpaultongeren125]

good luck brio

[@Planethollywood409]

Thanks your Dad also.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you

[@JBoo]

I have a question, do they still make you do bloodwork for clozapine ?

[@parwinali4627]

This is wonderful 🙏 Does Clozapine help intrusive thoughts and Dwelling??

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Yes Clozapine does help with intrusive thoughts

[@uzmatanauli1814]

❤

[@Planethollywood409]

It is nice to meet you. Are there earthquakes at UCLA location?

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Yes, but they are not that common. Thank you for watching!

[@PJ-mp7sv]

Do you have hallucinations anymore? Hearing or seeing things? Or are those completely gone from taking Clozapine?

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Aside from one time recently, my hallucinations are gone.

[@gururajugururaju6255]

Stephen ur symptoms negative or positive???? Tell me

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

My symptoms are mostly negative now

[@Planethollywood409]

Good night. I have schizophrenia too. I am a 🐈‍⬛ black adult girl. Good night. Going to chill out. 10:20pm in NY now about. Eastern Standard Time.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you and goodnight

[@ELNEGOPR1]

i take clonozepam and my shot of invega sustenna

[@Planethollywood409]

I only have Medicaid. Blue cross insurance uncomfortable

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for sharing

[@Planethollywood409]

Have a nice day.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much! Have a great day too

[@Planethollywood409]

I am giggly but bold.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you

[@bona7980]

i want to ask if you work normal cuz i want i have schizophrenia

[@kzl7711]

Are you on clozapine yet? It takes time but alot of people are able to get a job once you are stable on clozapine.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

I don't have a job, but that does not mean you can't.

[@Planethollywood409]

But I love music.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for sharing

[@shadipahlavi]

What does ur Dad do?he looks like a dr

[@adriandelacruz9970]

its the side effects of the meds

[@Planethollywood409]

I don't have a boyfriend. Do you have a girlfriend? Nobody can be alone. Good luck to both of us.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Tamara

[@Getagrip1942]

I will never trust this type of drug ever again

[@Planethollywood409]

What is the name of a good long term New York insurance for immigrants persons not born in America but are legally in America?

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

I don’t know of a good one

[@DoctorDerp6969]

lots of red flags with your dads energy

[@maxaffe3195]

pls tell me more about why you think that