LIVE - Living Well With Schizophrenia Q&A

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#schizophrenia #schizoaffective #schizoaffectivedisorder #mentalhealth #mentalillness
#schizophrenia #livingwellwithschizophrenia #schizoaffectivedisorder #mentalhealth

[@anitagomez9100]

I missed the live stream but I'm glad it was still uploaded because this was so good 🙌👍

[@dzoedzoe]

I

[@just-a-yt-guy]

I think you are very brave and generous to do this live Q&A with the potential for the anxiety that goes with it. Very well done and very helpful! I really like the comment "the importance of being vulnerable... with your partner..." When I watch your videos it always strikes me as ironic that you seem one of the most sane, thoughtful and intelligent people I know whilst dealing with a pretty unpleasant mental illness.

[@aaronking959]

I agree,she has a true calling at this stage in her life.Awareness is so important now more than ever..She motivates me and I'm inspired by her composed being.While I. Keeping I. Mind that she suffers as we do.She is a Hero to me and I'm sure many,many more,God Bless you Lauren

[@madalenalucci7102]

Thx. I had my first full psychotic, hallucination, delusional episode at the age of 51. I believe this started a long time ago. I just try my BEST to ignore it. Hide it. Medicate it myself. Your channel really helps. Your an angel.

[@h.rutten2187]

Check out the expert Jerry Marzinsky you’ll find it very informative.

[@nancyc3552]

You are truly amazing. Thank you for opening up and discussing your experience. I think you’re helping lots of people with this diagnosis.

[@hopegold883]

And others too!

[@ember-brandt]

I don't personally have psychosis, and those I did know with it have already passed (the other, a man with paranoid schizophrenia, is now divorced from my friend, so he's no longer in my life in any way) - but all the same, this information is incredibly enlightening and I am so glad to have found her channel. So many people, battling this diagnosis or not, could benefit from these videos!!

[@hopegold883]

You’re so wise and mature, especially for someone so young. I hope you stay in the public eye somehow. I can’t wait to see you when you’re my age. Thank you so much for doing this!

[@easytoslip]

how can you tell how old she is? I'm 46 and people who are like 55-90 are always lumping me in with youngsters because I look young, it seems like a compliment but doesn't really feel like it.

[@notinadequate2119]

I believe she said she was diagnosed at some point in her early 20s and that had been 6 or 8 years ago? I mentally have her at under 30.

[@ember-brandt]

I assumed she was right around my age, which is 32.

[@GodsChildJess]

My sister has schizophrenia and she’s an awesome mother. Her kids are very smart and in great health. So don’t worry, as long as you give them love and a great life they won’t have it.

[@Walter5850]

You can't conclude that from this example man.... that's just wishful thinking and purely anecdotal.

[@shieh.4743]

There is a 13 percent chance that a child she has would have the condition. That doesn't mean she shouldn't have children.

[@Walter5850]

@@shieh.4743 Actually there is a much higher chance that her child will have a serious mental illness. Because she doesn't only increase the risk of her kid having schizophrenia, but also MDD, BPD, ADHD and even autism. So even if her kid doesn't end up having sch. it has a very high likelihood of having some form of serious mental health condition.

[@shieh.4743]

@@Walter5850 Schizophrenia and Bipolar runs in my family. An increased risk of any mental health issue is present, but it isn't cumulative. The overall risk for all of those is higher than baseline, but they don't "add up". There is a 13% risk of schizophrenia. Likewise, a similar risk of bipolar (or both conditions), and a 20% risk of depression or anxiety. There is also a 50-80% likelihood of good mental health if the father doesn't have any concerns.

[@Walter5850]

@@shieh.4743 okay thanks

[@krystinarossi5976]

I have high functioning “quiet” Borderline personality disorder from severe childhood trauma and I am MUCH better on the medical ketogenic diet (healthy fats and a lot of greens but no sugar) and healthy fish oils plus vigorous exercise 4-5 times a week.

[@zz-ic6vy]

What healthy fats you eat?

[@aaymathebest4705]

Krystima Rossi ..can you tell please whsy do you mean quiet borderline?

[@komatsu8169]

Can you please explain how each of these help with borderline, for example does exercising help with anxiety etc.

[@rebekkalewin4844]

I had an experience where when u explained I had an anxiety disorder I was discriminated against and told I'd either have to resign or go into a disciplinary meeting the following monday. Was a very traumatic time. Needless to say I left that job

[@thediabeticpup]

I'm glad I got my question answered. I feel special! 😄

[@Dstew57A]

You are an inspiration. Good on you for sharing your journey with this disability.

[@Pfizenmaier]

Wow, you seem like such a strong and compassionate woman. All the best for you

[@howardgraham8011]

Loved the bit on vulnerability, it’s true we do have a gift of being willing to show our vulnerability, I do find it hard to set boundaries but I’m learning better now my wife and I have employed a carer, because they set boundaries which we have to respect, which has given courage to attempt setting some with people who may not realise or some that do, vulnerable people does not mean we want non vulnerable people to manipulate our openness, Which is sad but a fact of life some people take advantage of people’s caring nature bless.

[@suzannealsop3394]

Thank you for this Lauren. Good Q&A. I have currently lived with schizoaffective disorder for 27 years now and am learning all the time. Get even more tired now I am a little bit older and on meds so have to really make sure I get enough rest and sleep. Really useful sharing our experiences. Much love 💚

[@GeorgiEmbaid]

Looooved the q&a. Hugs from Venezuela. You rock Lauren!

[@idab6864]

How Are things in Venezuela?

[@GeorgiEmbaid]

Hi!! Thanks for asking :) Since 2017 the political situation in my country has been horrific critical. Let's see what happens in 2020. Happy new year

[@bridgetdoyle4276]

I’m really glad i found this channel and want to thank you for your candor and story!

[@amaksim]

Thank you so much for posting this up after the live. I missed it today. I absolutely loved watching this and hearing all the questions and answers. Thanks so much for everything you share with us. I feel like I learn so much from you and I feel like I have gained courage in myself with my mental illness just from watching you. Thank you so much for everything you do. Can't wait for your next video.

[@sourgummiez]

I’m so proud of you for doing this live, seriously! I get shy as hell in situations like this hehe. You did GREAT!!!! :)

[@kth260]

Thanks Lauren and Rob for this channel xx

[@crimsontomato8033]

Just can't thank you enough!

[@PaulDanielGolban]

A very insightful video. Thank you! :)

[@naturalisted1714]

You're such a genuine person. You get it.

[@meganlovesdisneyandcrafts4780]

👏👏👏💪❤️ Just started watching this but SO PROUD OF YOU! THIS IS A HUGE STEP!

[@shieh.4743]

You are really lovely. Thank you for your honesty and openness.

[@malibu64]

You look wonderful, I’m so glad you’re doing better 💚

[@ericagoehring1089]

I love your discussion around pregnancy and motherhood. I appreciate your openness.

[@jmk1962]

Thank you so much for doing this Lauren. Unfortunately your live stream was 1am in the UK and even though I tried to stay awake, I fell asleep half an hour before you went live so am catching up now. For your first 'live chat' you did amazing! and as always I learnt so much. Stay well.

[@notinadequate2119]

Also, I was wondering if this recent hospitalization was the first time that your partner experienced that level of your illness with you? I mean, before this, had all of your conversations about it been more theoretical? He seemed amazing in your last video, I’m glad you have him.

[@Alex-ph5ir]

Thanks for posting this, Lauren. Your openness about your mental health journey is so helpful and informative. Also, you were so articulate when answering these questions on the spot! I would have been so much more awkward haha.

[@411NOW]

THANK YOU LAUREN! One of the best channels I have found in all of 2019. So proud of you for putting this content out there. Casting a light into the dark. We truly need more creators out there like you. Be the voice of those without a voice. God bless you, Lauren.

[@johnsullo7269]

God bless you Lauren ! I will be praying for you and your loved ones.

[@dreamznaspiratons7064]

your channel changed my life and gave me peace of mind when helping my lover thank you

[@lucila5466]

You are such an inspiration! 💜

[@carrymacen]

I too have schizophrenia. It was shocking when I was first diagnosed but the more I learned the better it was. The most co mforting was learning that it is genetic, which reminded me when I was younger my grandma said she smoked to keep voices away.

[@bobhines2237]

I just want to say how much I respect you for what you are doing to educate the public on your issues and the help you are giving people. I’m a bit older than you but you caught my eye when you started your channel because I’ve dealt with depression and OCD issues all my life. You are providing a great service and are very brave putting yourself out there. You rock! Keep up the good work. Bob

[@sandracrump4498]

Thank you! :)

[@MrJohnMignacca]

Thank You for making another great video. For people with this Condition. Very Brave.

[@aaronking959]

Thank you

[@soul7530]

So glad your answer about writing about delusions was you’d be worried about slipping more into them, that’s exactly the same as me and was my instant thought, it’s dangerous territory for me it becomes absolutely obsessive and consuming.

[@emmanong2790]

Thank you. Dear. Great Learning for us. Your kindness to share give New Learnings. God bless U.

[@gergs988]

Lauren is so wholesome. I love watching your vids! 😊

[@bluemermaid4768]

I think you're truly incredible to open up about a subject which is usually surrounded by taboos. I find it hard enough to live with the depression and anxiety that goes with Fibromyalgia. I really admire you xo

[@tishmfey]

Keep up the good work. You're awesome!

[@joypearson7139]

I must commend you on having a delightful way of communicaring.

[@alexandralawson9578]

Missed it but glad I can see now. I have BPD

[@btchzplzz1836]

Ally Cabs I do as well. It’s hard to deal with. I wish you the best

[@alexandralawson9578]

@@btchzplzz1836 yes very tough good luck too u

[@ember-brandt]

I have BPD, too. May we all find better health ♥

[@alexandralawson9578]

@@ember-brandt yes may we all take each day it comes. Enjoy the good and prepare for the bad.

[@aaronking959]

Goodnight,thank you

[@aaronking959]

Its all clear,God bless all collective souls,we are being heard,and Lauren you making it understood.Champion Skill

[@zyedansary1429]

This was extremely helpful. Could you do another one relatively soon?

[@barbh1]

Wonderful! I think one of the most interesting ideas I've learned from your talk today, is that schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are two ends of a spectrum. This makes a lot of sense to me, more than seeing those two conditions as completely separate. Thank you!

[@dreamznaspiratons7064]

all these questions are so good

[@bradreigel4352]

You're awesome! Hi from Pennsylvania

[@georginapaterson7047]

You are amazing this has helped me and you are truly caring because this is so hard for you I wish you well you beautiful girl xxx

[@dreamznaspiratons7064]

thank you

[@NakedUndone]

I hear voices all the time. I call them, "my thoughts." Also, I once filled out a checklist for schizophrenia or psychosis and one of the questions was: "People are inserting thoughts into my brain: true/false?" How am I supposed to know that? I don't know where my thoughts come from! Most of the time they just arise, either unbidden, or as a development of the previous ones! Moreover, my thoughts are always different depending upon who I am with. So maybe people are inserting thoughts into my brain!

[@aaymathebest4705]

PeterMills,can you tell,explain please?

[@annealbert9490]

Is it your voice in the thoughts or other peoples voices?

[@dreamznaspiratons7064]

I love everything you said. from the heart. what you said about childbirth is beautiful

[@xxxmakeascenexxx6]

No questions here. We are name buddies. I am also Lauren. I wish you nothing but health and happiness. What you are doing on KZbin here is so important. Your voice needs to be heard, and I am happy you’re so honest and positive (as much as you can be) when speaking about your illness. Hang in there girl. When I am having my panic attacks, it’s the worst feeling in the world. We have each other’s back, and you’re going to be okay ❤️ stay strong girl. You have so much going for you

[@aaronking959]

I appreciate you

[@pennyoflaherty1345]

My husband has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. I have been totally frozen out of his life, he was released from hospital into his brothers care who he haven’t seen for 12 years. He leaves to stay with his dad who he hasn’t seen for 12 years. I’m so confused I did nothing to cause a rift, his parents hate me so I’m seeing no future for us. 25 years I have just been diagnosed with PTSS 😢 You are great thank you ❤

[@aaronking959]

I agree about the going for walks,it helps ground me so much,anything in nature,creeks,woods,its God's landscaping so beautiful

[@aaronking959]

I'm proud of you,you are brave and doing a great thing that id helping so many..I to wish to be as bold and courage as you someday,you remind me of Maria Montessary

[@jamiemarie4894]

It’s refreshing to get some clear advice and information regarding mental illness specifically schizophrenia. I myself am schizophrenic and hear voices in my head and communicate back in the same way. I don’t feel so alone with this.

[@aaymathebest4705]

Jamie Marie..what the voices say?

[@jamiemarie4894]

@@aaymathebest4705 Well I don't hear them anymore because I am more responsible about taking all my medication and my doctor monitoring me very close, but the voices where multiple ones, all women. They basically would be aggressively yelling at me all at the same time but saying different things it was like a huge mess in my head telling me to harm myself in different ways. I didn't take medication for a really long time because I didn't really know it wasn't normal so I would drink a lot and it would slow things down.

[@aaymathebest4705]

@@jamiemarie4894 thanks jamie Marie

[@aaymathebest4705]

@@jamiemarie4894 I just awaked up because on the phone oyr Fajar prayer,morning prayer Announced Azaan...then in the tensiin I see the phone first....

[@aaymathebest4705]

@@jamiemarie4894 Jamie marie,what your docyor said about your future?what fo they say aboit your pregnancy?

[@gwenb123]

Hate that I missed this live but very happy you uploaded it. I need to follow you on Instagram so I don't miss he next one!

[@jenniferwhite9133]

Hello 👋 Lauren stay safe and stay strong 💪

[@aliciamcguire7163]

I would really enjoy a video talking about Bipolar Depressive Disorder because I remember you saying you have been diagnosed with it too along with Schizophrenia. I am also a person with Bipolar and would love to hear about it more since I feel it doesn't get talked about as much as it should. I also hear from my doctors that I have to be aware that Schizophrenia is most likely common for myself as I age due to having Bipolar and I wondered if you were told that too. Would love a video about it!

[@maggiesmith979]

Lauren, I had a patient that is Bipolar that is an heiress about 15 years ago and she paid for some research on cycling. They found what you mentioned in a previous video, that changes in light triggered manic episodes. (fall and Winter) They also found that taking fish oil was helpful in reducing manic episodes. Some people were able to reduce the amount of medication they took. I couldn't find the research but found the book on Amazon. It's by Dr. Stoll called The Omega 3 Connection. It's hard to get studies replicated when it involves a natural substance because drug companies can not make money off it. You can get the book off of Amazon for almost nothing.

[@zz-ic6vy]

Does it matter what fish oil? Like expensive one or just regular one?

[@maggiesmith979]

@@zz-ic6vy I think it could matter. There are pcbs in the Atlantic so there's that. Some people don't like the taste. I would get the book. It would be about $5 dollars with shipping on Amazon from a private seller. It's an old book. The ratio of Omega 6 and omega 3's matter and I don't remember what that is. You can not take fish oil if you are taking blood thinners so that is contraindicated. I always think, "what could it hurt?". I worked with a psychiatrist that always prescribed fish oil for his patients so it was in the hospital formulary. You might be able to get it prescribed from your PCP if you have insurance. If it isn't in the psych formulary it it could be in the medical formulary. A formulary is the list of medications doctors are allowed to prescribe from your insurance that they will pay for. I hope this helps. Happy to be of service.

[@Book_Bird]

Ack, missed the livestream. Hope to catch the next one!

[@techguy9062]

Im learning alot about Shizophrenia from your videos and livestreams I dont have it but its extremely interesting to learn about the condition.

[@tylerg354]

haha sure ya are you cant even spell it

[@unoffensiveusername1887]

The more people take the time to learn and understand the struggle other people go through, the better. Thanks for taking the time to understand! People like you truly make the world a better place!

[@rhiana7166]

Absolutely love your channel. I had a partner who comes and goes throughout the years who was diagnosed with schizophrenia. I love learning about it and can’t help but think of him when I watch your videos. I had a question: do you feel your symptoms everyday or do they come in waves? My friend would seem normal some days & have delusions other days. He refused medication and I did Start having shared delusions. I just wonder if he wasn’t being open about what was going on in his head. Or is it different for everyone? Say someone with schizo affective vs schizophrenia..

[@juusohh]

You are like a doll, very beautiful.

[@aaronking959]

Yes I can see and hear

[@doreenlorenzo2501]

You are a beautiful and intelligent young woman. Bless you.

[@michelleanderson3212]

Lauren you are bad ass!! You are truly beautiful inside and out.. not to mention courageous, smart and just Amazing ♥️

[@SuperStar-sy6iy]

Ty

[@moonlightmelodrama]

I hope this is a worthy addition to this excellent discussion. I want to talk about our (aka society's) reaction to those with mental disorders. And how our reaction probably adds to their torment, in some cases. At university, a young woman attempted suicide because I stood her up for an important prom. I visited her on the 7th floor of the local hospital. The floor I was told was called the psych ward. I could not speak to her. And I did not speak to her ever again. This is all to my shame. But as an old man now i have come to realize that I wasn't afraid of HER mental condition. I was afraid of MY mental condition.

[@aaronking959]

Your so brave

[@jayaldridge4444]

hey proud Edmontonian.missed your stream .

[@Michael-ux6hi]

Yes we see you!

[@GodsChildJess]

It hurts to see you cry. I relate to you so much. We are living in a cruel world. Keep your head up. We will all get through this by being positive.

[@easytoslip]

Crying should be seen as part of life. The ability to express all your emotions is the opposite of depression. Crying is healing and cathartic. Positivity has its place but so does feeling all the emotions fully.

[@Honeycomblife]

I have a question, as a caregiver can you and your partner reccomend the best way to deliver real bad news to a loved one that has schizophrenia. Bad news as in someone they care about passing away for example. Maybe a video about this subject matter might be good for many.

[@notinadequate2119]

I am wondering about your relationship with your family. Do your parents feel guilt about your condition? Not that it would be deserved, but as a mom, I feel guilty about literally everything my kids struggle with. Did getting a diagnosis change your relationship with parents or siblings? For better or worse?

[@5iepurasi943]

I would like to throw my two cents in . . . My family pulled together since my psychotic episode at 36. It lasted an entire year and I was in and out of Behavioral Health Units and finally a State Psychiatric hospital (1 1/2 months). My parents are gentler with me, listen to me more, and treat me more as an adult (this was a huge problem in our relationship). My husband always treated me with love and respect, but we are closer together and I have realized how much he really loves me. My diagnosis has freed me from some of the guilt I felt for some of the things I did during my break, like trying to run away from home (it really hurt my husband). I realize now that was the illness.

[@micheleparker8123]

Me too. My son is bipolar with paranoia and had a psychotic break at 17 years old. He's 31 now and won't take any meds except clonazepam. I constantly feel responsible and my self esteem sucks.

[@notinadequate2119]

I’m so sorry. That must be very difficult.

[@idab6864]

@@micheleparker8123 understanding the lack of control we have as humans is imperative

[@aaymathebest4705]

@@5iepurasi943 can you tell me about your symptoms pleass...and about changes in your behaviour?what medicine are you ttaking

[@aaronking959]

Yes your fine

[@aaronking959]

Good deal

[@user-wb2yv7ll9d]

It's so fortunate for you that you don't have emotional blunting.

[@khadijaha4085]

Hi Lauren and everyone! I’m part of the support system for someone who has just recently been diagnosed with schizophrenia within the month. They were recently hospitalized and we, the support system, are extremely worried about them resenting us and the upset at being hospitalized may worsen their symptoms. Any advice for how to remain strong as a support system? How to approach conversations/encouragement/etc. but not offending or patronizing them? What to do with the (irrational) guilt and sadness the support system can feel?

[@khadijaha4085]

Your channel, your journey, and your videos have brought us some peace in the possibilities to come so THANK YOU!

[@easytoslip]

@@khadijaha4085 sometimes hospitalization is necessary, but not if the person is simply irritating family members or they don't know what to do with her, which I've seen happen. While hospitalization might not necessarily be pleasant, it can address medication, habits, behaviors, and thinking that may be making the person's illness worse, and they can get stabilized.

[@khadijaha4085]

easytoslip i completely agree! Would never “trick” or send someone to the hospital just because they were irritating or something. I’m more so asking for advice on the best way to manage the emotions one could feel as a member of the support system. It is immensely hard watching my loved one struggle, or having them away from me in a hospital. The worry is sometimes too much to bear.

[@aaronking959]

Calender and little reminders helps ☺

[@artandabolition6989]

Are there any online support groups that people know of?

[@aaronking959]

I'm on the shot and pill form,lower energy sometimes, I have ADHD also.Hard to sit still and focus,I get involuntary body movements do you?

[@shannongrreene4365]

Yes

[@aaronking959]

Your good

[@codingwithcrystalhill1568]

Do the meds make you tired?

[@aaronking959]

How do you manage a schedule if your on disability,I'm on it also,and this is a problem for me

[@allenp303]

Missed the steam but had a few questions. How smart do you think your psychiatrist is? Do you think they did a good job? Are you satisfied with the levels/mg's of medicine? Have you had bad doctors? How many doctors? I guess answer whichever you want.

[@aaronking959]

What should I do if I have a hard time managing meds

[@kimberlyburdge649]

Late to the comments. But I have schizoaffective too bipolar type and ADHD. JUST letting you know that I have three grown children ages 19 to 28. Two have bipolar disorder. Two have ADHD. But even though the kids have struggled they have all turned out great. They know they have an understanding mother. They all take medications and know they are important. Youlll still be a good mother. My kids think I am. Hang in there.

[@joshuastarkey-boyd6481]

Can we all admit that her little 'Umm' before speaking is the cutest damn thing.

[@nwosepriscilla8854]

If one stops taking the medication abruptly what will be the consequences?

[@aaronking959]

Do you agree that with the right education i could actually work in a mental facility, to offer advise or any other way to help.An advocate in any way

[@marciamarciamarcia1650]

How long does it take for the brain to recover from a break?

[@shannongrreene4365]

How can I without medication quieting down my voices in mine that I'm hearing

[@anothernumber9753]

Hey there guys! Here's this question that i was going to ask Lauren and Rob but I don't think they got to it(no hard feelings at all.) But do you think you could tell me what you think? I'm close friends with this woman who has schizoaffective disorder, and I think that she's an amazing person but she's said a lot of confusing and conflicting things about how she feels about our friendship and what she wants out of it. How do you think I can best support her and how should I cope with the mixed messages? She has a hard time trusting people because of her past but I just try and do the best that I can to show her that I don't want to hurt her and that I want to be a consistent person in her life. Anyways thanks for telling me what you think. I really love the channel by the way (:

[@aaronking959]

As a lot of questions,know your meds purpose,and be cautious of all side-effects

[@aaronking959]

Its a gift once you master it