Schizophrenia and Anxiety Disorder - Surviving

We discuss Stephen's diagnoses of Anxiety Disorder and Schizophrenia, including holiday activities and channel updates.
The Interplay of Schizophrenia and Anxiety Disorder: A Journey with Stephen
Introduction
Living with mental illness can be challenging, but for many, sharing their experiences helps bring understanding and awareness to these often misunderstood conditions. Here, we will delve into the life of Stephen, a mental health advocate diagnosed with Schizophrenia and Anxiety Disorder, as he navigates the complexities of these co-occurring diagnoses. In addition, we will explore the research surrounding Schizophrenia and Anxiety Disorder and discuss the medications Stephen takes to manage his symptoms.
Schizophrenia: An Overview
Schizophrenia is a severe, chronic mental disorder characterized by disruptions in thought processes, perceptions, emotions, and behaviors. Symptoms can include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized speech, and cognitive impairments. According to the World Health Organization, Schizophrenia affects approximately 20 million people worldwide, with onset usually occurring in late adolescence or early adulthood.
Anxiety Disorder: An Overview
Anxiety Disorder is a group of mental health disorders marked by excessive fear, worry, or nervousness that interferes with daily functioning. Common anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and specific phobias. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that nearly 19% of US adults experience an anxiety disorder yearly.
The Intersection of Schizophrenia and Anxiety Disorder
Research has shown that anxiety disorders are common among individuals with Schizophrenia. For example, a 2014 study published in the journal "Schizophrenia Research" found that approximately 38% of individuals with Schizophrenia also met the criteria for an anxiety disorder. This comorbidity can exacerbate symptoms of both conditions, resulting in increased distress and a greater likelihood of hospitalization.
Treatment: Medications and Therapy
Stephen has been prescribed a combination of medications to manage his schizophrenia and anxiety disorder. These medications include:
Clozapine: An atypical antipsychotic medication, clozapine is primarily used to treat Schizophrenia, particularly in cases where other drugs have proven ineffective. It works by affecting the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which helps to alleviate symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions.
Abilify (Aripiprazole): Another atypical antipsychotic medication, Abilify, is used to treat Schizophrenia as well as bipolar disorder and depression. It works by stabilizing the levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of psychosis.
Lexapro (Escitalopram): This selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is primarily prescribed for treating anxiety and depressive disorders. Lexapro works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can help alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression.
In addition to medication, psychotherapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes are essential components of managing Schizophrenia and anxiety disorder.
Stephen's KZbin Channel: @SurvivingSchizophrenia
Stephen's KZbin channel, @SurvivingSchizophrenia, has become an invaluable platform for those seeking to understand schizophrenia and anxiety disorders. By openly sharing his experiences, insights, and knowledge about living with these mental illnesses, Stephen is doing more than just providing information; he is creating a supportive community for people facing similar challenges. Stephen is helping to dispel myths and misconceptions about Schizophrenia and anxiety disorders and how the channel fosters a positive, inclusive environment for mental health conversations. Schizophrenia and anxiety disorders are often stigmatized and misunderstood by society. Through sharing his experiences, Stephen offers a realistic portrayal of life with these mental illnesses, challenging stereotypes that paint people with Schizophrenia as unstable or dangerous. His videos give viewers a glimpse into the daily struggles and triumphs of someone managing these conditions, showing that individuals with schizophrenia and anxiety disorders can lead fulfilling, productive lives. Misconceptions about schizophrenia and anxiety disorders are widespread, perpetuating harmful myths that can make it difficult for people with these conditions to seek help. Stephen's channel provides accurate, evidence-based information about these mental illnesses, debunking common misconceptions and arming viewers with knowledge. By doing so, @SurvivingSchizophrenia educates the public and empowers those living with schizophrenia and anxiety disorders.
#schizophrenia #anxiety #mentalhealth #depression

[@alinebrandau3982]

We have been suffering terribly for 20 years. Thank you so much for the information on medication. It gives me hope. I understand this emotion! This is AMAZING!! I love the explanation regarding anxiety. I understand the noise sensitivity. I understand the almost torturous feeling of being with people. The short social fuse. I actually think A LOT of people have these reactions. But schizophrenia on top of all those reactions is completely overwhelming. You are a pioneer, Steven! Your testimony is so powerful! We have been in the dark so long about possibilities, the whole family gave up. I had watched some schizophrenic people share, but you and your Dad are on a different level.. Doctors, psychiatrists and residential treatment centers gave us NO HOPE. For twenty years!!! Think about that, the need was so great and NOBODY could do it. Our golden boy became an absolutely terrifying person. No one was sharing about future ideas, medications, or realistic steps about LIVING WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA. Even if my son never finds a better existence, I feel, through you and your Dad, the information is FINALLY moving forward thanks to you 🙏 🙏

[@PaulineRaabe_]

Stephen this is your calling! Such a very important purpose to share your own experiences living with/ surviving schizophrenia. I have been sharing your videos to help people understand what schizophrenia is really about. Thank you friend!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much Pauline for your encouragement and for sharing my videos! It means so much to me!

[@deniseconti4479]

Thank you, Stephen! I'm so glad I found your channel! Your insights have been so helpful for me in relating to my son and trying to understand him. And your Dad's perspective is also very helpful to me as a parent. I think it is very courageous to put yourself out there. You are helping a lot of people in the world! And I'm glad you are having success with your channel and that it is helping you in your own journey. I look forward to more of your videos in 2023!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Denise! That means a lot to me!

[@SFCAJeff]

Thank you. My son was diagnosed this year and you’ve both so helpful by sharing your experiences.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Jeff for sharing and watching! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@Mattieboi1201]

i have enjoyed and appreciate your journey Stephen. I have schizophrenia and comorbid anxiety as well i'm 25 and relearning how to enjoy life with SA. you've inspired me to be happier and healthier and to stay hopeful even on the harder days. thank you for everything

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for sharing! Happy New Year’s!

[@gaylagabriel3485]

Dear Stephen, I loved this episode! Watching you and your Dad sharing is phenomenal! It always is, but this time you went deeper…showing emotion and talking about your eyes. I remember when your body was so stiff and rigid, like a tin soldier! As you started engaging more with your life you lost that rigidness and your body now flows more naturally! It’s true, a few years ago, your eyes did not have the light they are exhibiting today. It has been an incredible journey! I am extremely proud of you…this has been a beautiful healing gift for so many! Your ideas for 2023 are great and will definitely be a source of support for all those watching! May you have a Happy New Year!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much Ms. Gayla! Happy New Year!

[@provostg]

I'm really excited for the growth of your channel. I too, found Lauren's Living Well channel some time ago and was searching deep through KZbin for similar channels and found yours back when you had around 60 subscribers. It's really been a breath of fresh air watching your videos. They're all so honest and informative, and we get to see the ups and downs. I'm glad you're doing so well and have so much support, and your Dad is a great addition. Looking forward to your live video! All the best!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for all the support you have given me on my channel since the beginning! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day and a great New Year!

[@LunaParadoxyz]

From Mexico 🇲🇽 dealing with Schizo, paranoia and depression… thank you for your bravery. Your dad is amazing, he calms me down. New sub :)

[@argee97]

Oh my goodness Stephen, when you started to become emotional about comments, I cried! You are such a brave and brilliant human being. You’re incredibly selfless for participating in research. You will help so so many people. My brother had psychosis as I was growing up, and I’m so incredibly interested in peoples experiences, because he doesn’t talk about it so much. I think you’re so brave for opening up about an incredibly awful time of your life. You have such a bright future ahead of you Stephen, and I can’t wait to watch your journey on KZbin. Take care. X

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so very much for your incredibly kind and heartfelt comment! It means so much to me! Reading your comment is making me feel emotional again, but in the best way. Have a happy and healthy rest of your day! Thank you

[@denisewilson7987]

Thank you Stephen, for sharing your story. My son was recently diagnosed with Bipolar and he also suffers from negative symptoms of depression, one being antisocial. He cannot be around people and spent the holidays in his room. Your progress gives us hope that he can get better. I have also noticed a difference in his eyes that you mentioned briefly. I am looking forward to seeing your video about the eyes of schizophrenia. Thank you!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much Denise for your kind comment and for sharing! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@rosebuddud0307]

Happy New Year to you Stephen and Steve and family, you, Stephen give me so much encouragement. I am nearly 60 years old and have been suffering from schizophrenia since I was 20. And yes it's definitely true that it's a slow recovery process and to be honest here 40 years later I'm still in recovery. But the more serious phase of my illness occurred during my 20's 30's and 40's . I had several hospital visits each year during those decades. Once I reached my 50's things started to settle down symptom wise. And I have been out of hospital for 7 years. So though I think you have made great strides Stephen, you have a long life ahead of you to grow and challenge yourself. Don't feel like you need to recover quickly. And Steve, just sit back and watch it happen. It is happening. And Stephen will continue to grow day by day but the process doesn't always have to be lightning speed. Appreciate you, your friend, Rosebud

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thanks so much Rosebud! I appreciate you always being here and supporting me!

[@SchizophreniaSurvivor]

Happy New Year, Rosebud! YOU have Survived Schizophrenia and now are educating me and Stephen about how to live with this illness. I sincerely appreciate you! By sharing your journey and insight, you help us and all viewing Stephen's channel. Happy New Year to you and your partner and your families! YOU HAVE BLESSED US!

[@rosebuddud0307]

@I'm Steve, Stephen's Dad Thank you so much for responding Steve! I have always tried my best to be an advocate for us with schizophrenia. I'm so happy to see young people like Stephen and Lauren who are taking up the cause for today's generation. And I'm kinda sneaking in for a peek.

[@noreenquinn3844]

All good Stephen. So professionally produced and encouraging. You bring truth and humility to us all and that is so refreshing. A steady hand on the tiller is what we all need and that's what you bring. We got juggling balls in our house for Christmas. Great fun if anyone wants to try. We also discovered the TV series "Suits" with good old Louis Litt. An episode or two before bed relaxes us all for sleep. A happy and healthy New Year to you all. Keep up the good work. Sending you some more joy Stephen.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Noreen! I’m happy you had a good holiday! I’ve heard good things about Suits. I’ll have to watch it! Happy New Year!

[@Tolya1979]

Thank you, Stephen! I hope you have a wonderful Holidays. You are a great guy.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much! Your words mean so much to me!

[@pauldemic2747]

Thank you for allowing us to follow your courageous and fascinating journey. Happy New Year.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Paul! Happy New Year to you too!

[@midori4352]

Thank you for all your posts, Stephen and [his] Dad! I am enjoying listening to your unique story and how you overcome your difficulties. Not only is it inspirational, but I enjoy the structure you guys present your channel in, from studies shared, to the real stories. You guys are super relatable and I learned a lot so far about what psychosis might look like, some of the mental health processes that take place in the Healthcare system, and the family support that goes into treatments. This helps me understand some of the things I suspect a friend may have gone through, and it makes me more aware of things I can do to help people with schizophrenia in life, from slowing down, to minimizing noise, etc. Thank you for sharing your story!

[@John26767]

Happy New Year to you Stephen, your Dad, your Mum and your Family. Wishing you all and your channel a productive, healthy and rewarding 2023. 🙂

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much! I really appreciate it! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@FlyinDogRecords]

Thank you for posting. This will help many people. Congratulations on your channel. You are a brave young man. May you have access to your genuine Self, May you thrive, May you have peace.

[@randytene]

Stephen, you’re amazing man. I’m so happy you’ve found success along your way. Psychosis is a harsh condition, I hope you keep going and get up to 10k subscribers. I wish you the best - Randy

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much! Wishing you the best too!

[@susanna3058]

another great vid!! "brain-derived neurotrophic factor" (BDNF) is a crucial part of neuroplasticity you can look into. there are ways to encourage its growth in the brain thru lifestyle choices. wishing you a happy new year, I have a feeling this is going to be a big year for you !

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much Susana! I have not heard about it. I will look into it! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@GrandmaLM]

Great video guys. Recommended your channel to a friend who is suffering.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much Laurel! I really appreciate it! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@SueB42]

I am so happy for you that your holidays went well. Happy New Year 2023. I can see it’s going to be a good one.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you SueB! Happy New Year’s!

[@danarepetto1596]

Thankyou. Your videos have helped me understand my son who is suffering.

[@faridakhan7526]

Good Job. very happy to see you.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much Farida!

[@jackiecooley5937]

Thank you so much. Maybe your healing is found in discovering your purpose in life ❤

[@vonjess9]

I learned a lot from you, Steven, to help my own son ty

[@tf1316]

Happy new year to you and your dad and family!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you! Happy New Year to you too!

[@tf1316]

@@SurvivingSchizophrenia thanks!

[@warrend114]

My 19 yearold daughter is suffering with this and has been since 17. We have tried abilify, zyprexa, risp and invega. Her drs just keep raising doses and she acts like a total shell of herself and she bounces back and forth between the voices telling her that Im trying to hurt her to her mom trying to hurt her. Shes my baby and it tears my heart out that shes terrified of me

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

I am very sorry to hear this. It is a very tough illness. I hope things get better.

[@laurieberry162]

We have neurological problems in our family. My cousin has dyslexia and my mom failed second grade. Also, I learned how to read one on one. Thankful about that. Then I saw a sign at school which said, “If you can read this, thank your teacher.” I ended up taking Labalvi and Latuda. Also Divalproex. It doesn’t seem to help. Actually the medication seems to make things worse and psychiatric nurses have no business prescribing medication because they aren’t smart enough to do it. I would only trust a psychiatrist. They had more schooling. Psychiatrists also have more compassion about my bipolar disorder more than the nurses when I was in the hospital. Hopefully I will never go back.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for sharing Laurie and for watching!

[@johnv1176]

Hi Stephen. Thanks for the video. I am currently looking at fear of shadows as a cause of schizophrenia. A primal fear? I am also looking at REM sleep where our eyes move from side to side. I feel like this might be a safety mechanism where the eyes are scanning the environment at a low level to make out any threats. I think maybe a malfunctioning or misunderstood threat system might be causing schizophrenia. I am now assessing what causes discomfort in myself and trying to determine the reasoning behind it. Have a great new years, cheers!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much John and for sharing your research! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@jamespassas9441]

It's true about the eyes, there's a certain 'flat' look some people get, who have mental health problems. It's hard to put your finger on it..

[@hayleyprice8345]

Yeah I get a bit agitated by eating issues to

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for sharing Hayley! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@Sentinelfoodcourtracer]

❤

[@jamespassas9441]

Playing guitar is hard for everybody, it takes years to master it!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much!

[@Planethollywood409]

You aren't sick stephen happy weekend party smart with your girlfriend what is your last name? My first name is Tamara. Why does your father have to be with you in some videos?.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you

[@Lipolimtown]

2023 and 2024 are going to be two big years of new medications/treatments for this condition. A lot of new positive advances in psychiatry, more so now than in the last 50 years

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you John! Happy New Year!