Martin's Experience Managing Schizophrenia Without Medication

[@LivingWellAfterSchizophrenia]

We specifically discuss in this video the importance of consulting with your psychiatrist before going off of any medications, and to consult with your psychiatrist if you are wanting to reduce or go off of medication, and work collaboratively with them to do so. We do not recommend adjusting medication or going off medication without the supervision of your psychiatrist.

[@mikemetague7973]

Really appreciate this perspective! I've frequently been a "noncompliant" patient, and I've had diazepam in the past. I've enjoyed too much sleepiness and lack of inhibition with benzos. I've 40 yrs exp. w/SSRIs, but none w/ tricyclics like amitriptyline. I believe the SSRIs work real well for me, but it took me a while to conclude that. With wide-spectrum idiopathy, it's not one size fits all though.

[@JacobPlat]

@Ririn Muttaqien I doubt she speaks Indonesian.

[@JacobPlat]

@Ririn Muttaqien I don' t know but here we have a feature automatic translation. It is not very good because it is done by a computer and I don't know if it is supported by all videos.

[@Burevestnik9M730]

here is a real, typical SZ: kzbin.info/www/bejne/moGyZ2R6n56eqrc Easy cases are extremely rare.

[@jaynpenny]

I very much agree with discussing it with professionals and thinking a lot about the decision of trying to stop meds and I wish everyone the best of life with whatever they choose and I pray for only success for everyone.

[@enoch4499]

I am treatment resistant so I've had to find ways to cope without meds. Homeopathics, natural/herbal medicine and music therapy have been my preferred method. Also, talking about the symptoms/not keeping it to myself helps a lot.

[@BeingBetter]

I treat my bipolar 1 with natural and herbal treatments and it works very well. Lithium orotate is the best thing for me.

[@galatea742]

I’m treatment resistant too and not a single antipsychotic that I’ve tried has worked for me, I rely heavily on therapy and reducing as much stress as possible. I think I’m doing ok now though off the antipsychotics!

[@NEMOPMORPHY]

Talking is the most important thing! To hear is to heal To care is to cure To see is to save Talk therapy has been the greatest relief to my mental stresses!

[@3OHT.]

I cannot function without meds

[@patriciatoney240]

Could you please explain treatment resistant? I would love to find alternatives for my son.

[@ftuT]

One of the most interesting interviews I've seen with someone diagnosed of a psychotic disorder. He's insight is amazing and he makes really good points. I always learn something from your videos to work with my patients. You never stop to amaze me, Lauren. Thank you.

[@lenanjeri6429]

I have had 3 breakdowns since 2002 and I have got 2 times I tried being off medication but I got my worst psychotic episode in 2011.my psychiatrist told me if I am off medication again it might be permanent. I have kids and I have a good support managing my stress and now it’s 10 years and I have trusted my medication that I fear if I am off then I loose my kids. This site really help me to start opening up about my condition which people around me hardly know.It’s good to hear different experiences cos it really helps.

[@marlboromatt5656]

What did the psychiatrist mean by if you go off medication it might be permanent??

[@Al-kb2xl]

@@marlboromatt5656 the more times you have breakdowns the worse your over all prognosis is. Its harder each time to stabilise the person after a psychotic break

[@XCG670]

I know the healing method to not take meds anymore

[@Zozotik25]

Hi njeri which medication are you on

[@chaosdweller]

Yes getting new outlooks on things is fantastic.

[@peonypurp2636]

As a person who doesn't have Schizophrenia but other trauma and MI, I very much relate with Martin saying "I find him infuriating; because he's right"

[@ClockworkEngineer]

I also get by with schizophrenia and no medication. This guy describes actually how I live as well. It's constant vigilance.

[@tysonmikel9222]

are u forced to do therapy and check ups even though you're off meds?

[@ClockworkEngineer]

@@tysonmikel9222 I don't live in an Orwellian dystopia, so no, I'm not forced to do anything.

[@tysonmikel9222]

@@ClockworkEngineer so you dont do therapy? I'm wondering if ppl who dont take meds still do therapy

[@jax-zm1bb]

@@tysonmikel9222 He is asking if you willingly do therapy, Clockwork Energy.

[@Verbux]

@@ClockworkEngineer lucky. I live in Australia

[@creativelyanalytic]

He is so self aware. When he said he stopped activities where you had to be on the top of your game and people depended on him (diving, shooting club). Very selfless🙏🏾. With my loved one, I’ve seen wreckless behavior and denial. Prayerfully that will change. I also wish there was better resources in GA.

[@aaymathebest4705]

@@ariel6018 thanks you explained in the vomments🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@juliaotway7158]

What a lovely gentle man, thank you Martin. Very self aware. Please let him know, how worthwhile and brave he is, stigma unfortunately stigma is still around regarding mental health is still around. To step forward so publicly ,Martin derserves recognition for doing this. Everyone is deserving of love. I am glad he has supportive employers and a supportive network. Blessings.

[@psychosislove]

I went through hell throughout my entire childhood being schizoaffective. The trial and error with new meds and bullies and adults who ignored me all throughout my teen hood drove me to suicide. When I was 17 I refused to take anymore medication for about a week. In that week I went through the worst of my symptoms. As such I got up out of bed at the end of the week, ready to end my life so I could escape the anguish and misery I was going through. But, I was urged by a positive voice to take the new meds, and I listened to her. I remember her saying, "Your parents don't deserve to bury their only daughter." I've been on that same medication for 13 years now and though I will never be able to have a job of any kind, I am stable enough that I am happy now and have married the most amazing man who helps me in a way no one else has been able to do so. I have less psychotic episodes and I managed to get my AA degree. It took 7 years, but I got it. Whenever I forget to take my meds (which is usually me having fake memories of having taken it when I didn't), I feel it. My body gets tingly, my mind starts going places it doesn't need to go in, I start shaking and twitching and just feeling all sorts of "wrongness"; My symptoms get stronger. So my husband and I make sure together every morning and evening that I take my medications. I find it amazing that Martin has learned how to handle it without medications, for the most part, because I can't function without them. It just shows that we all experience our illnesses differently, and that there is no one way of treatment for everyone.

[@shield-u8f]

try the ketogenic diet for 3 months.

[@starrhall8160]

Did u try niacin, high doses, tho?

[@Verbux]

@@shield-u8f zero carb is better.

[@shield-u8f]

@@Verbux yeah definitely, zero carb helped me a lot with my Schizophrenia. I think the woman who makes these videos should try it, she would probably benefit from it. Research: "Chris Palmer MD" from the McLean Hospital at Harvard Medical school 🏫

[@deansmith230]

I think you are amazing and your are as blessed as your husband is, to have you. Love and Light to both of you.

[@nanettedavidson8949]

What a lovely man he is. I wish for him all good things. Thank you, Martin for sharing those insights and helping us understand what it is like to have schizophrenia. I hope your sense of contribution is rewarded for helping all of us.

[@SybilNix]

I love the way that this interview was filmed, the angles and filming the screen and not just relying on screen recording made this not only informative and helpful but beautiful and engaging

[@mackenzie-deltadurocher]

Thanks for sharing Martin. I especially appreciate you addressing how you've navigating work and balancing your health. Glad to hear your employers are committed to your wellness! No wonder you love your job lol.

[@sneakupbania]

I don’t have schizophrenia, but I so relate to what you shared about traveling and being in between places - it’s where I feel most at ease and most myself, even if it’s only a bus ride. You described that feeling so poignantly and made me think about it in a new way, thank you.

[@j.h.miretskay3430]

I am sometimes extremely sarcastic and snarky, but I have to commend Lauren for being audacious enough to present alternatives to mainstream psychiatry. Kudos, and I tip my hat to you.

[@bluesky902]

This was SUCH a valuable video to watch - thank you for making the effort to show the many different ways people try to manage their condition and thank you Martin for being so open and honest. I was struck by how so much of what Martin said is applicable to other conditions, including clinical depression, and his frank and pragmatic approach is so refreshing. The whole experience of medication can sometimes be really traumatising. My interpretation of what Martin has done is really to focus on accepting his condition and changing his life. It's hard - so so hard - but, it really seems to work for him. I hope that as society talks more openly about mental health and neurodivergence, Martin's path can feel more possible for others. Thank you again - I love these conversation videos please do more!

[@nooriarizvi3279]

I no longer take meds either the psychiatrist told me to stay on meds for life but I refused here I am 2 years out perfectly fine it’s really important to manage your stress levels

[@XCG670]

I know the healing method to not take meds anymore

[@jeanpaultongeren125]

@@XCG670 How

[@XCG670]

@@jeanpaultongeren125 must to know that is no problem with tiroide,LH hormone(lack of testosteron)

[@shahnazali4000]

How did you taper off Clozapine/ antipsychotic drugs?

[@Helptheneedy-y5m]

Hi there! If you have a story about schizophrenia that you’d like to share, we’d greatly appreciate your contribution for research purposes. Your information will be kept confidential and secure, and nothing will be exposed without your consent. Thank you for considering helping with this important research!

[@karafitz998]

Hi Martin, I'm a fellow high-functioning schizophrenic who is currently on maternity leave but holds a full-time job when not mothering. I often feel like I am not at all Schizophrenic because I manage my symptoms so well and they thus do not affect my everyday life. But then once a month my nurse comes and I'm reminded by that white powder he puts into the syringe that I am indeed mentally ill. I wish to one day come off my medication and have my complete self back, until then your story gives me hope for that day. Thank you for sharing.

[@strxy0497]

Hi I was just wondering how were you diagnosed was it a mental health screening or a normal doctors checkup I am terrified I may have schizophrenia as I’ve had psychotic episodes were I don’t remember what happened

[@karafitz998]

@@strxy0497 you might want to reach out to a hospital for help to diagnose you.

[@rashidafurniturewalla985]

Glad to know you can keep a job. May I ask what meds you’re taking and is it once a month only?

[@84strix]

I loved Martin! So wise and so nice sharing all of this with us. I could listen to him all day, really. Wish him all the best!

[@redlaven5899]

This was a great interview!! Martin is the first person with Schizophrenia that resonates with my own Schizophrenia. My symptoms and demeanor are very simillar. I do have to say I disagree with his doctor as well on the family aspect. I am Married with children and also manage without medications with simillar strategies. I keep stress low and stay on top of my therapy. I wish him the best!! thank you for this.

[@tysonmikel9222]

how often does your doctor do check ups and blood work? and do you still see psychiatrist or family doctor?

[@redlaven5899]

@@tysonmikel9222 I see a therapist usually every other week. sometimes just monthly and sometimes weekly just depends on how well i'm doing at the time with symptoms. the ones that bother me the most are the negative symptoms with disorganized thoughts. I am lucky enough to NOT have Audio hullicinations. I just have a few Visual ones that I have learned to live with or ignore. I'm not sure what the blood work would be for other than for cholesterol and such?? but I do try to stay on top of my yearly check ups with the family doctor. Currently watching my blood pressure more closely.

[@tysonmikel9222]

@@redlaven5899 does your doctor suggest you to go back on meds or does he leave you alone?

[@redlaven5899]

@@tysonmikel9222 I've actually never been on meds. and my Doctor has a simillar outlook on medications and attempting to stay off them. He would listen to what my therapists or psychiatrists suggest if the time came to be on them. I am fortunate enough to be very able to "present well". and actually was diagnosed really late in life due to that fact. The biggest thing I have going for myself in the battle to stay off meds, is that I am a little more unique in being able to rationalize myself out of my delusional moments. I am aware that I believe things that others don't and can at the minimum tell myself to stop wasting time on that thought pattern.

[@tysonmikel9222]

@@redlaven5899 oh that's interesting. I thought most people diagnosed took meds for a period of time. My psychiatrist took me off meds but family doctor wanted me to stay on. I been off 3 months now dont know what will happen when the fam doctor finds out. I heard psychiatrist is final decision maker but I'm not sure

[@sandycampbell1866]

so sad to hear about the psychiatrist telling him not to get into a relationship. Thank you for hearing his story and the reality of what people put into files and awareness of not wanting to be seen as defiant. I am a therapist trying to help a clients with symptoms of schizophrenia. It is good to to hear about the value of social support and feeling good about contributing.

[@laurenperales5981]

Wow what an intelligent and humble man. Thank you guys for bringing all this to light, it's an encouragement to see such a positive and rational outlook with people who are very akin to the suffering associated with schizophrenia. I believe there is purpose to everything in life, even things that seem like they will be the end of us. He proves with his life how he uses this to his advantage, to heighten his awareness of himself and his surroundings, and definitely doesn't let it stop him. Bless him for sharing these parts of his life with us and thank you Lauren as well!!! Super needed especially in those who live with similar mental conditions, a beautiful and meaningful life is still very much possible with schizophrenia. I believe our weakness (as humans regardless of mental condition) lends itself to truly finding strength. Everyone struggling with similar things please don't give up. This is worth the daily fights we have to put up, you never know who you may be helping and what your life is truly accomplishing

[@pruey]

Martin's candor and his willingness to be vulnerable in this interview is really beautiful. Thank you for having such a wonderful guest on your video. I wish Martin all the best :)

[@patriciacinea3097]

Insight seems to be an important factor. Knowing, accepting, learning about any illness.

[@aaronettewilson5926]

Love your program l suffer from the same things for 31 years had a nervous breakdown. 30th years ago loss my my and Jesus heal me

[@lisamatonis4579]

Thank you Lauren, and Martin for sharing this!!

[@kharlostique270]

I'm so happy to hear from Mr. Martin and the questions had very insightful answers. In my experience, the negative symptoms were the hardest factor to start dealing with. I love everything about this video!

[@XCG670]

I know the healing method to not take meds anymore

[@rpink8531]

Excellent. Best sign of high quality media content? Allowing opinions other than those held by the content creators. Thank you for allowing this option a voice 🙏

[@jbhalodia]

Everyone deserves a loving relationship, no matter what❤ never think that your mental illness takes that away from you

[@maryannscott5567]

I'd love to see more videos on alternatives to medications, if only because it is extremely difficult to access healthcare in the USA, especially since most people lack adequate insurance. This is why the prisons here are full of the mentally ill. Studies treating schizophrenia and other brain illnesses with keto genic diet have been very promising. I'm also interested in other treatments such as EMDR for trauma resolution, meditation and Vagal nerve healing to be explored.

[@technoviking4152]

Yes, try clean keto, with anti inflammatory foods mixed with interminent fasting.

[@maryannscott5567]

@@technoviking4152 perfect combo

[@ptycat]

Blue lotus flower!!!! It naturally has nuciferine in it which is an antipsychotic.

[@GrowWildOutdoors]

EMDR, Somatic Therapy for physical trauma, low-dose THC, and a healthy lifestyle have been a boon for my psychotic symptoms. I still experience dissociation and my PTSD-related anxiety & panic attacks, but with DBT I'm learning the skills necessary to stabilize quickly.

[@gilbertcuevas9944]

when i was on keto i felt better too

[@susanfahncke637]

Martin, thank you so much for sharing your journey. I felt it was brave and your humor and self- awareness are going to make a difference and give hope to others who are facing mental wellness struggles. Thank you! ❤

[@EduinaGrande]

I am a psychologist and throughout my training I have felt that there was a barrier separating us from people suffering from mental disorders. A space that can only be accessed by a few. It is not easy to find the true voice of patients, always filtered by doctors and associations that claim to represent them. Thank you for the space, I feel my frustration overcome, at least in part.

[@shahadah1451]

I had the same thoughts----longing to check in somewhere, some hospital, where there would be no responsibilities or demands. I had some very smart, kind cops who completely supported me and understood. They kept me safe and made me feel loved and seen. They took me to the E.R. but did not leave or commit me. Work is vital to me also.......Thank you, sir, for sharing your experience here.

[@ericagoehring1089]

This was very interesting! I appreciate how self-aware Martin is. I wish him well!

[@fionabell1744]

Thankyou so much martin for sharing this . Its really helpful. I have schizophrenia in my family and bipolor. I have my own issues also and i could relate to so much you said. Cutting stress down, good and bad stress definitely helps . I do lots of walking in nature and getting the light, good company, self care and sleep so important.. keeping close to my higher power is the foundation for my life. Keto and carnivore diet is excellent as well ive found. . Ive came of anticonvulsants and mood stabiliser ( 20 year) over 3 years now and mostly ok. I wish u all the best . This is a great channel x

[@danielfowler1962]

I take amisulpride .. I just feel a huge lack of motivation when taking meds. Before I was ill I was a very active person, now I really struggle with excercise alot. That one gets me, I really used to enjoy excercise, was a big part of my identity and provided me with a sense of well being.

[@jeanpaultongeren125]

you know why it does this> because dopamine is blocked. while exercies releases dopamine and serotin. the anti psycotics blocks this.

[@jeanpaultongeren125]

sucks bro

[@christ_ie3714]

Med free since 2007ish. Schizoeffective and borderline personality. I'm married with 3 kids here ( one in heaven). I live a very fulfilling life. I gave it all to God and He has renewed my mind and gave me a new spirit and new lease on life. It is possible to be med free!!! Jesus is the way truth and life

[@Helptheneedy-y5m]

Hi there! If you have a story about schizophrenia that you’d like to share, we’d greatly appreciate your contribution for research purposes. Your information will be kept confidential and secure, and nothing will be exposed without your consent. Thank you for considering helping with this important research!

[@ambergregory7869]

Thank you so much for this amazing and eye opening interview! Martin - you are a rock star and I am grateful for you sharing your experience.

[@karifaller9284]

What a lovely, insightful man. I learned SO much from his perspective! Please thank him for me. xo

[@MrMasterNorris]

This guy is so grounded. Calming to see

[@Modern_Warrior_School]

I'm not at the point where I feel like I can go completely off meds yet, but have found that stress management does much more for me than meds alone. A year ago, I was completely disconnected with reality more often than not, for weeks at a time, even though I was on 6x higher doses than I'm on now. But once I got my stress under control, I went down on my doses and haven't had positive symptoms since. I've been out of work for over a year because of my symptoms, but am just now feeling stable enough to re-enter the workforce. Good luck to everyone else who's struggling and try to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

[@sackstoracks]

How are you doing now? Remember, you’re a fighter! You can do this ! You can beat this ! God loves you as well ! Talk to him and seek him, he will answer!

[@biomanization]

I liked the tone that the interviewer used, very respectful, open, without any agenda. Thank you for this discussion. I understand that up to 30% of schizophrenics can manager without medication, but they need continuous surveillance for any relapse

[@chaosdweller]

Yeah true true,she was unbiased considering her story.

[@grahamhardie6853]

Good luck Martin you are a brave man.

[@VerasPlanet]

What a great conversation. Thanks to both of you for sharing!

[@carolinejones1977]

Lauren, I thank you with all my heart for your channel. I find peace and hope listening to you.

[@lindhorstellie]

I actually really appreciate you lauren, thanks for being a strong advocate for our community! And happy new year!

[@dmgsoultogetherness6667]

You're doing great big man...take your time, slowly and surely going forward.🙏🏻🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@petersonjoseph5261]

I agree with what Martin said (~23:35) about the experience of just traveling and getting from point a to b. It's a time of sometimes being unbothered by the world especially when in Lyft/Uber.

[@layotheleprechaun]

Fair play Martin! You're an inspiring man!

[@joninarimmer7344]

This speaks to me strongly. It gives great insight into the experience and perspective of a close member of my family. Martin states many of the same struggles, concerns and experiences that my loved one has tried to share so very often to share with me. This video helped me gain understanding in a way that I haven't before. Lauren, you have helped me to be of better support to him with this channel. Thank you so very much!

[@bremeikle7258]

Thank you for closed captions for those of us who are hard of hearing 💜 this channel has helped me support a loved one a lot

[@chaosdweller]

I had trouble hearing him cuz of his strong accent.

[@chimairamoody3883]

I'm afraid of taking medication, I can't even take Tylenol because I'm too afraid I'll have a heart attack and die or my organs will shut down. It's so so frustrating going to any doctor or psychiatrist who ridicules me and pokes fun at me stating the obvious that "why are you here if you won't even take the medication we give you?"

[@cicelybega5419]

Thank you so much for this topic. And a huge thanks to Martin for sharing his experience. ❤️

[@louise5906]

Thankyou to Martin. That was very informative 🌸

[@PaulaSmithIns]

I am enjoying your channel. My son, who is in his mid 20s, was recently diagnosed and I'm trying to learn more about how to understand and help him.

[@sileenaennis]

It’s a spectrum condition

[@theroyalone5765]

@@sileenaennis I’m so glad you mentioned that, We just realized that with our love one, no one ever mentions “spectrum” as it relates to schizophrenia.

[@XCG670]

I know the healing method to not take meds anymore

[@PearlMarjory]

Excellent Martin. Continue with the strategies that are helping you in your day to day. To his dr...good for listening, and allowing him to try being off his medication. some doctors would'nt take the risk, and I understand the reasoning and never condemn them. Excellent interview.

[@PierrehendrikHekrood]

wow...i can relate to Martin...and yes..taking life day by day...its what it is..i can not change it..what i can do ..is to put myself into situations that will not make me feel scared...rejected ..anxious..etc..

[@nicj5354]

I was put on antidepressants for PTSD, along with about 20 other pills. These days I just let Jesus guide me through it. His side effects include love, joy, and peace ❤️

[@joannekerr3]

What a fantastic interview Lauren! Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight Martin! I would love to see more interviews with others who are dealing with similar diagnoses. Very informative.

[@laurieberry4814]

My medication made me worse. Now I take medicine to combat the bad side effects. I am always striving to be my best.

[@XCG670]

I know the healing method to not take meds anymore

[@chaosdweller]

Haha damn sorry to hear that.

[@summer7529]

Lauren I must mention that I loved this interview. You and Martin are both lovely, brave souls. Bless you both. Martin Can you please tell whom you saw? Is there a way to email or msg Martin? I am in Belfast and would love to see the same doctor. Martin , Your doctor sounds really good and understanding of your situation. Thanks so much Martin for coming up here and help us all in the same boat and inspire us to get better. You are so confident and courageous. You are a hero!! Lots of love and respect ❤

[@BearbearbearbearbearbearRarrrr]

Medicating Normal, the documentary film, is a very well informed complimentary point to this important discussion, I think.

[@erisinger]

I'd love to see you do an interview with someone who was misdiagnosed with schizophrenia and/or schizoeffective so we can know the definitive things to look for. If you can't find anyone I volunteer lmfaoo (joke but also serious bc I love this channel) I've had ptsd hallucinations!! I was misdiagnosed as schizoeffective, but my birth mother had schizophrenia so I didn't fight my diagnsosis for years.

[@KatJ3st]

I was misdiagnosed with Bipolar disorder. It was a nightmare. Always get a second opinion!!!

[@chaosdweller]

​@@KatJ3st🤔

[@chaosdweller]

Fr I would too .

[@seanodwyer4322]

contact then- Sean O'Dwyer- 140 hobson Street.- Auckland city. 1010. New Zealand.- south pacificc.''

[@milikoshki]

I am fascinated by Martin's story. It's really unsettling to hear how much depends on to whom you happen to be assigned or routed... makes you think of all the people lost in the system simply because they don't have the right advocates around them.

[@ronlentjes2739]

There IS a fine line between genius and madness. If you read through my comments, I already answered that one: When you enter the psychic / spiritual world the first time you may be scared and fearful. You MUST get over that QUICKLY. You can then access the thought forms of like spirits and become amazingly creative. Without the fear, you are genius. With fear, you go mad. The fine line is the FEAR vs Lack of FEAR.

[@suzannealsop3394]

Really helpful video as someone living with the illness for almost 30 years now. Could relate to a lot you talked about Martin. I am currently working just 20 hours a week at the moment which is better for me since my last relapse. Many thanks for the interview 💚

[@kristymarie6065]

I’m glad you are doing well. Do you take medication?

[@Burevestnik9M730]

@@kristymarie6065 Do not expect she will ever reply back. That's the nature of this illness: lack of continuance

[@drwilbert]

@@Burevestnik9M730 Not always true.

[@suzannealsop3394]

@@kristymarie6065 Thank you. Yes, I take medication of a small dose of an antipsychotic which is used as a preventative measure to prevent any relapses with psychosis. I also make sure I have plenty of sleep and try to avoid too much stress.

[@suzannealsop3394]

@@Burevestnik9M730 Fortunately not in my case. I have only just seen the notification to reply straight away.

[@elizabethconroy7665]

Thank you for sharing,Martin I admire your bravery and honesty in sharing with us Pleased you kept your job All the best for now and in the future Warm Hugs

[@riseup6112]

I really appreciated the openness and ease of this dialogue

[@healingfear]

It strikes me that Martin is probably a wonderful conversationalist.

[@RaysDad]

This interview was so helpful and inspiring!

[@djshadylady1]

Wow this guy is so strong.

[@jacquelineleitch7050]

I don't use medications and am not open to taking them. I am very active but not overactive. I am aware that competitiveness triggers OCD which triggers stress and starts a crisis , so I use meditation techniques which help me to step back emotionally and then will physically remove myself from events that cause OCD. Anxiety can be debilitating. So I do what I can at that time to carve out space and still put one foot at a time . You do what you can. Nothing will ever be perfect. It can be very tough but the memory of the psych ward and loss of autonomy keeps me working on taking vitamins, and maintaining life style balance with activity and cerebral integration. Also I just have to be courageous about not being too nice to people and clawing back my space. It is ok to be neurotic and it is ok to quit being neurotic. I pay taxes. The rest is negotiable. I agree that becoming homeless is always a potential. I have been and had to learn a lot about prejudice and living under that in order to claw my way out. This has helped me deal with professionals whose arrogance and ignorance enjoys being in control. I have learned to walk beyond their scope. I have zero relationships with psychiatrists. I have had a few good therapists and some who were just gossipy shallow materialists.

[@TheSapphireLeo]

This is how I feel, too.

[@XCG670]

I know the healing method to not take meds anymore

[@yiquanawalkb4run26]

Thank you to both of you for such a great and timely interview,

[@jennifer_reyes_9490]

I love this I don’t take medication and I don’t want it I have Schitzo~affective & I don’t ver say it’s a disorder i feel very normal when I fight it off I become distressed until I accept it and I feel calm again and it goes away self acceptance makes a big shift with the voice when I accept it goes away I almost forget and I feel good because I know myself and I almost feel wierd with out but I remember I was a happy person this Ben going since I was 4-5 and because I didn’t put labels I lived a normal life … I came to this video because I was fighting off my feelings and I needed comfort and I feel good now

[@sikksotoo]

I got off my antipsychotics just over a decade ago and led quite a normal life up until a few years ago. Things got worse during the pandemic lockdown. A few traumatic events led to a nervous breakdown; that and the accompanying depression triggered my old symptoms. Went to the ER and was denied MedicAid, so I'm trying to self-manage.

[@bystudy8041]

Did you have psychosis?? I had psychosis in 2020 and on antipsycotics since then.. N on verge of tapering

[@sikksotoo]

@@bystudy8041 Yes, that was the diagnosis then. I don't even pretend to know what's wrong with me at this point, everyone just argues with/dismisses me anyway.

[@bystudy8041]

@@sikksotoo so after leaving medications you didn't had psychosis for 10 years.. N bcoz of stressful situation you had it again during covid.. Right???? Next time did you take antipsychotics?

[@sikksotoo]

@@bystudy8041 I haven't taken any antipsychotics since. The one I tapered off from was Risperdal. Which was the fourth different one they'd put me on.

[@sackstoracks]

@@sikksotooI’m currently on risperdone, what was your experience on that?

[@JERRODDHANKS]

These videos really get the topics going, and help me so much in the way i dont feel so alone!

[@jaspveri651]

its kind of reassuring to hear about an older males experience with mental health - most of the men around me really dont acknowledge their mental health big thanks to both Lauren and Martin for sitting and having this conversation for us to hear!

[@gianfranco_maldetto_92]

It must have been hell for his ex-wife at some point. Men are very against seeking help for mental health issues, which results in the bizarre murders psychotic men carry out. Jeffrey Dahmer is one such man that always pops up in mind.

[@chaosdweller]

​@@gianfranco_maldetto_92wasn't he just a pycho? ugh so many people don't get it.....

[@chaosdweller]

Your absolutely right.

[@gianfranco_maldetto_92]

@@chaosdweller Dahmer suffered from psychosis. He scored very low at the psychopathy test.

[@Kparso01]

I have schizoaffective and honestly all of what this man said was seriously helpful and true. However, I have 2 kids, and those kids are the only people who have given me reason to stay ON my medications. He mentioned that his doctor said being in a relationship would be hard for him, and honestly I don't agree, but I do see his point. Stress really makes things much harder for schizophrenia and relationships, especially at first, can be extremely stressful. Even the act of falling in love is stress technically. I used to not take anything for my whole life until a few years after my kids were born. Now I really see myself for who I am and my own functionality when it comes to being off of medications. I really want to be off of all medications but honestly with the hectic parts of parenthood I just don't think I can do it. I'm scared that something will happen that will take them away from me. It's just one blink away if I were unmedicated for a psychotic break and I can't risk it. In my head I think, this is just my life. But I know that I am lucky for this self awareness that I have. Or maybe it's just the timing when I got into a psychiatrist. I am so lucky for my family and my "protective" help as you've mentioned.

[@tallblonde1976]

Martin thanks for your insight, your voice/accent was an absolute pleasure.

[@davidryan8269]

Thanks for your openess Martin. I've attended 12 step fellowships for over twenty years and I used today. A can of bourbon and coke. I thinks it due to the lack of validation that I seek in regards to my insight and awareness when the truth is only a psychiatrist can provide that. Tomorrow I'm going to make an appointment with a private psychiatrist as the public health system is a bit of a factory. Expecting regular people to identify with things like how I beatified the self as a very young child gets a few odd glances. Regular people exult and experience all the attendant feelings when they're able to come back into their physical body. I take it to another level were my ego gets infused by my libido and I bask in self exaltation. The adulation and glory are divine. Radical joy and apocalyptic grief. The Radical joy is from positive affect I experienced in my early childhood and the apocalyptic grief is defusion of that beatified self I experience in my inner realm. Think that's pretty well sums up in a general sense the root of my psychosis. That's how I interpret it anyway. Peace yall and thanks lauren

[@patrickanarchy-official5662]

I have schizophrenia. I don't take meds anymore either. This method isn't for everyone. But , works well for me.

[@tysonmikel9222]

how long did it take you to come off meds? also was it your family doctor or psychiatrist to take you off meds ?

[@patrickanarchy-official5662]

@@tysonmikel9222 6 years ago my NY psychiatrist said that antipsychotics were causing me too many side effects. I had severe tardive dystonia from them . It happened several times and I was in extreme muscle pain for months after just one dose. Benzetropine barely worked at preventing it .Afterwards, different psychiatrists tried me on different antipsychotics and It got even worse.. I started developing allergies and rashes from the antipsychotics. So, I then decided I needed to permanently take myself off antipsychotic meds after all that. I still see psychiatrists but they won't prescribe antipsychotic meds for me again. My symptoms are still mostly stable and I feel better now.

[@tysonmikel9222]

@@patrickanarchy-official5662 what happens now when you see the psychiatrist? and how often do they refer you to do bloodwork?

[@adhdandme2023]

I relate so much to what Martin was saying about his enjoyment of the travelling aspect of his work and moreso the feelings of peace that can come with travelling generally. That is when I am most at peace, when I feel more in control of the amount of contact I have with "society", feeling more free and with fewer societal expectations on me. The alure of "checking out" when homeless is similar but also terrifying at times. If I didn't have the support of family that I do that could easily have been my path I think. Life is hard enough for people who don't experience serious mental health issues. I have a similar sense of peace when sitting in my car or on the stairs. I am neither one place or another. I am not diagnosed but had alot of psychotic symptoms in childhood and young adulthood from trauma. I still struggle with work in terms of the pressure and paranoia that can be triggered. Much respect to you Martin. I would be interested to know what you do for work. (I would be interested to know also how easy-to-understand people found Martin's Northern Irish accent. I am personally familiar with it but others may have struggled because it is fast.) Much gratitude and respect to you both Lauren and Martin.

[@Grawlix-P]

I use sensory 5 fingered grounding and always knowing today's full date. So if im freaking out, ill try my hardest to remeber what day it is and tell myself, "Ok, todays Friday, January 5th... I SEE a clock, a chair, my shoes, a book and the tablecloth. I can FEEL the table, my phone, the seat and my socks. I can HEAR the wind outside, my youtube video and the washing machine in the other room. I can SMELL my lunch and the fresh laundry smell on my sweater. I can TASTE the coffe i drank a few minutes ago. Today is... Friday, January 5th, 2023. I always use different objects without repeating because it forces myself to pay attention to my surroundings. Then i do my best to stay plugged into reality and not my mind, thoughts, feelings, assumptions, or memories. Stay grounded peeps

[@n.angelicah.1625]

It would be really nice to see more videos like this where we see what alternatives are working for other people.

[@chaosdweller]

Amen

[@nerdshizz8177]

I swear everyone that says they self medicate schizophrenia with weed have bipolar. I'm schizophrenic and that shit made me hallucinate every time I tried it.

[@drwilbert]

Weed is a big no no for me.

[@kaseycampos6982]

Weed is not good for my symptoms at all.

[@VampireSquirrel]

I think it effects some people quite differently than others

[@gilbertcuevas9944]

weed makes it soo bad for me, I'm schizophrenic so I'm telling you, don't smoke weed

[@marcushanlin]

Weed has triggered psychosis for me on multiple occasions, but I also abused it for a long time to deal with my depression. Now it doesn't feel the same and almost always causes anxiety. And if something happens to trigger me it will throw me into a psychotic episode.

[@danny-zz5gv]

I love how you are doing all this and helping people with mental health, praying for good health for everyone Also, can u make a video about diff Bet schizophrenia and PTSD

[@aaronjennings8385]

I'm glad you've decided to give us a voice. Medication did nothing for my issues. But meds were doing serious harm. Some of us are better off without... It's nice to see you have an open mind. Would a video about anti- mnda encephalitis be approachable?

[@XCG670]

I know the healing method to not take meds anymore

[@stagehand9002]

Lauren this channel is a great help to a lot of people thank you

[@nynys123x]

I don't know how I managed it, but it's been 7 months that I haven't taken any medications, and I've had several serious relapses and I usually couldn't last longer than about 1 month without these medications. I have been officially diagnosed with undifferentiated schizophrenia (I heard voices, had delusions and had persecutory and obsessive thoughts). Now I have been completely calm for 7 months, but physical activity and positive thinking have helped me a lot, as well as finding my own way to strengthen my psyche. It is also very important, after completely stopping the medications, not to forget about the fact that I had a mental illness and to increase this self-awareness every day. control over your thinking and behavior. If anyone has any questions, you can ask me here. Best regards and good health!

[@karafitz998]

Are you doing this with the aide of your doctoer?

[@nynys123x]

@@karafitz998 It was like this that I decided to stop taking these medications myself, but I quickly decided to tell the doctor about it. At the beginning he was quite skeptical about it, but at the next visit he said that it was okay, it was my decision and gave me the advice to tell a close person about it when I noticed the first symptoms, which I did. However, I am positive and I am actually trying to be very careful, we will see

[@mynameisgrace28]

I'm so glad you've had 7 months of calm, I hope you get many more 😊 I was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder back in 2019. I'm hoping to taper off my medication with the help of my psychiatrist soon, wish me luck 🤞 Stories like yours give me hope!

[@Inagole4233]

Thank you brow,,,same with me,,stopped meds but worried it may come back,,especially the audio delusions which nearly made me hurt neighbors at night thinking they were persecuting me ,,

[@nynys123x]

@@Inagole4233 It is best to stop taking medication when you have no symptoms. You have to be aware of the prodromal symptoms that may come back because you are more sensitive. I stopped taking it in the spring and lasted 1 year, but unfortunately some of the symptoms came back, I ruined it a bit with drugs, I know, stupid. No stimulants and do everything to maintain a good mental state. I know it is hard, but good luck!

[@melanieannette3781]

I’m not schizophrenic but relate so much to that idea of being “in between.” Until I heard this, I don’t think I could put it into words. I have struggled with very severe and persistent depression among other mental health struggles so I’m not sure if maybe it’s somewhat of a sign of being uncomfortable in your own head, but I definitely can relate so it’s not merely a psychosis thing.

[@coolopo6155]

It is most likely derealizatiom or depersonalization it’s a very numbing feeling. I hope you are doing well.

[@sara88hxc]

I related deeply to this. Thank you for the thoughtful questions and answers!

[@TheGrayton2000]

Um hello

[@chaosdweller]

I didn't have the captions up and could barely understand his accent and I still enjoyed it very refreshing getting a new pov.

[@EduinaGrande]

Many professionals who have started in this world also feel very angry, we feel cheated. They don't tell us what it is, they tell us what is interesting. It imposes more economic principles than helping people with their suffering. This is something that I am confirming more and more with podcasts like these, with testimonies like yours and my own experience with my struggle to provide the support that is really needed. Without medication? is not possible for them. But not all of us think the same

[@marianm7468]

Great interview. He’s from Northern Ireland! I’m from Ireland too!

[@karaosully]

Me too, west cork though

[@sillysnowy108]

I tried to go as long as possible without medication through worsening shcizophrenia, but it came to a night of being suicidally paranoid. I told mom to get the old man to put all his guns up since I still lived with them, and that night is when I decided it's time to start meds. It's been about 2 1/2 years since then, and I've been on 8 or 9 different meds for it. Some have made it worse, some helped but have had horrible side effects. 1 gave me severe permanent tics. But the one I'm currently on (Thorazine) is good for me. I find it amazing how well he manages without medication, but also hope that if he decides he needs it for a time again it's not a difficult task.

[@XCG670]

I know the healing method to not take meds anymore

[@kathleenrev7]

Great Interview! Thank you! Love your hair Lauren!

[@im19ice3]

i relate to thinking i know better than my doc 😅 thankfully she's always patient with all my questions and doubts and makes an effort to reach a compromise with me in the matter of meds.

[@Innerharmony369]

I’ve been on so many medications and they all made me worse. I feel okay if I’m off of everything, exercise daily, meditate, eat well, get a lot of sun, and avoid stress as much as possible. I also take a few herbs for depression

[@sackstoracks]

How are you now ?

[@Innerharmony369]

@@sackstoracks definitely not “normal” and it’s exhausting to always be questioning all my delusions and stuff like that, but I’m managing. If I stop taking care of myself-meditating especially-I go down hill fast. Still worth it to not be on medication, at least for me. The reactions to my meds got scary.

[@kenadams5504]

I relate to only feeling associated when travelling between two destinations (eg on a train ). I'm usually dissociated the rest of the time ...away from my moorings.

[@davecstack]

Some people say 98 % of people who at first go to a psychiatrist leave with a prescription. It would be very interesting to hear about and talk these 2 % who don't. Thanks for .video.🙏

[@ericnastav]

The wanderlust/compulsion to travel is definitely a thing. I had an uncle with schizophrenia who could't live in one place.

[@chrisbrock1621]

I have been medicated for 7 years the last two years and eight months has been a nightmare I'm to the point that I have to now go get on medication to quite the voices and try to save to people who are still standing my life

[@tysonmikel9222]

listen to the bible audio on KZbin and pray. it will help recover u

[@Ocanaldabelinha]

@@tysonmikel9222 stop lying