Schizophrenia Symptoms: Battling Lethargy and Low Productivity | Surviving Schizophrenia

[@GeekStinkBreath17890]

It sounds like the term "executive dysfunction" describes what you're feeling. It's when you want to do something but lack the motivation, so you just sit there thinking about the thing you need to do and feeling guilty for not doing it, but still not starting. Starting is the hardest part. It's often talked about with ADHD and autism, but can be a factor in many mental illnesses/conditions. I struggle with this too with depression and anxiety. I also find that a fear of failure can be at play, too. Thinking that I won't be able to do something well or I won't be able to finish it makes me think "why bother trying at all?" And I know it's more likely that I will have trouble doing something well when I have sleep problems. I think the only solution is to realize it may not turn out well, but accept that and as you said, try your best to do it anyway.

[@Yahoo.266]

You’re not alone…. I don’t have schizophrenia but I can spend days in bed bc of no motivation. You’re not alone, but as long as we get ourselves out of it is what matters. We are all so proud of just exposing your life to all of us. You’re so brave and very encouraging. You make a big difference on social media. God is on your side. Have faith and pray. God is always listening and feels our pain. You got this!!! It’s ok not to be productive sometimes. Working out is also a good motivation bc it makes you stronger. We love you 🥰. God bless and keep you

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for your kind words of support and encouragement! I appreciate it greatly! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@mellynn277]

Thank you for sharing your experiences. It helps me so much to know I'm not alone. I'm grateful for you and your channel.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much.

[@Athanasiospaschos2963]

i also have schizophrenia and wierd symptoms. your video lightened me up. thank you steven.

[@SaraWinger-ct8hr]

Thanks for sharing Stephen. I have a family member who has a condition like you and I never understood why he got lethargic and not motivated to do anything. I realize it's part of the condition, but at times he surprises me and like you he pushes through and cooks dinner for me.

[@peaquakett]

Be gentle with yourself, my dear. You’re a young man with many facets, and schizophrenia does not define you. You’ve been through a lot in these last years. You may simply be going through a period of readjustment the way we all do. You’re my hero. You’re offering people precious insight into your spirit; every word you say is important.youre an articulate, insightful, kind and brave man. Your gift means so much to me!!❤

[@l.gonzalez9488]

It's alright. We all can relate to lethargy, but you are making a great effort. 😃 God bless you & your Family!! 🙏

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for your very kind words of support and encouragement! They mean a lot to me! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@l.gonzalez9488]

Thx! You as well. ✝️

[@Harbaksh1234]

Hi Stephen. If anyone deserves love and empathy, it is you, along with all those like you who are suffering. Go easy on yourself and know that there is a lot of love out here for you ❤

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@heatherhanover6958]

I’m so impressed you got out to do this video when you’re feeling like this. I hope this passes soon. Be patient and kind to yourself.

[@sunnystormy4973]

definetly ... !

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so very much!

[@tonia4203]

Hello Stephen, My son has Schizophrenia but is not in a good place right now. I can only pray he can do as well as you some day. I feel encouraged watching your videos. God bless you. ❤

[@timothywilliams2887]

I have something similar in my mental illness. I have avolition and lack of motivation in many places in my life. I've been on medication for the past 2 years and it's been a long haul of lethargy and sedation. I keep on pushing, and my therapist keeps motivating me to keep trying and pushing through. I am getting better, but it's slow going. I sleep about 12 hours every night. I get upset sometimes about motivation and discipline; my family has much more of it than I do. I have to remind myself that it's my illness and I have to keep trying.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for sharing. I hope you have a happy and healthy rest of your day.

[@boblevey]

Good to see you Stephen I’m glad you’re out there trying. God Bless you

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much Bob!

[@digvijay5484]

I am also a patient of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. I was also suffering from serious mental illness but I cosult Dr. By getting treatment from a psychiatrist, I am enjoying a normal life. You too will recover very soon only by consulting your doctor. Follow the instructions given by your Dr. keep in touch with... THANKU YOU FOR SHARING YOUR EXPERCIENCES! LOVE FROM INDIA ❤🙏

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much!

[@Leek2x-yl2wz]

Nice to know im not alone!Thanks! I hope u start to feel better

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you! I am feeling a bit better today! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day! Thank you so much for your kind support! It means a lot to me!

[@johnbsavageiii]

You are not alone with those feelings about your states of mind as life comes about. I’m 45 and have never been diagnosed with schizophrenia, but I’m certainly suspect-I just don’t have the motivation to find a therapist, and I don’t want to hunt down a diagnosis either. I quit alcohol about 5yrs ago and it’s been very great for healing. The world outside is kinda crazy right now. If you need to feel productive, just be productive for people that mean something to you. Our govt and culture puts obligations on us that we really don’t care about, and they make us feel morally deficient if we don’t care. Love yourself with gentle thoughts of growth in even the small things. You making this video affects people positively-did you know that? I appreciate you opening up and talking out what’s going on with you. It looks like a beautiful day out where you are! Enjoy your day, buddy!🎉

[@vasilis8208]

Great to see you again! Take it easy, don't get stressed out.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you!

[@dinoLomedico]

It is very hard at times to ge going, other times it comes easy . Maybe baby steps on certain days, then the ball starts rolling . Sometimes I tell myself three words, Just Do It . When all seems to slow you up, or there is a fog, this is a golden opportunity to display motivation .

[@mlgbro9423]

You got this ! Just do it!! Something productive …. You’re doing it so well!! Keep up the great work ❤

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much!

[@melissasalsbury4705]

I am so glad you made this video. I am searching for vids of people struggling like I am. I'm not officially diagnosed but I feel the same way this summer. The heat, then rain, made it hard to get outside here in Ontario, Canada. My living situation is tenuous and my sleep has also been broken. I havent done my taxes yet and find it difficult to be around my Mom and brothers here at home.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for sharing. Have a happy and healthy rest of your day.

[@IlikeTurtles316]

I really enjoy the scenery on your walk and talks! Thanks for sharing with us.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@dardan9218]

I feel you stephen. it's like you wish you could be around other people but in those moments you don't feel that you're able to. good to see you again, i hope you feel better and less stressed soon my friend. : )

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much.

[@gaylagabriel3485]

Hi Stephen, So glad you made this video and I finally viewed it! What you are experiencing is unique to you, however, all human beings go through similar episodes or cycles like you have been experiencing. We all go through emotional ups and downs. Acknowledging your emotions is so healthy. Keep doing what you are doing….working through these difficult times. It’s courageous of you to share these emotions with all those reading your KZbin! The beautiful way you explain what’s going on reminds all of us we have emotions and moods that we need to work through like you are doing! Keep moving forward!

[@kitandsons173]

When you sit too long, it is harder to get a deep sleep when noght rolls around. Sometimes even setting an alarm one hour earlier , to wake up, can help. Also, maybe you could make yourself a small vision board. It is a strategy that can really help with plans. Get a dry erase board and try to put together a few goals for the month. For example, two long walks a week. When you accomplish the goal, draw a line through it. Or, plan to make one video a month, Take one day to read comments. Do one task to help some one else. (parents or cousins with a task) Maybe, tackle a bigger goal in a six month time frame. write notes to encourage yourself. Also, looking up motivation videos on KZbin can help inspire you on those hard days. I think you will surprise yourself. Another good video!!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for your excellent advice!

[@fluctuatnecmergitor]

Thank you, Stephen, for a very insightful video. I know that when things pile up and I get overwhelmed, the first thing I do is something completely different from my work while my mind sorts out how to attack and prioritize what I need to do, and discards things that I thought were very important that, after a time, are less important. That's often playing a game that doesn't require much thought or playing the piano. I also know that when I worry about getting enough sleep as I am trying to sleep, it keeps me from sleeping or if I worry about deadlines at work that may keep me up. Many of the things you discussed in this video are much more common that you may suppose is what I'm trying to get at - as someone else has written, you are not alone and many, even most, can empathize with you. It is possible that, if you were working for that boss that sets deadlines, you might find the boss to be more lenient on you than you are on yourself. Consider that possibility too, please.

[@susandyck5114]

I just found yr video and after listening to you I’ve subscribed. I really really appreciate yr words, insight and vulnerability.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much!

[@Lsullyvan]

Thank you so much. You spoke out how I have been living for some time now. The last few weeks I started taking small steps daily and it helps. Also, it’s ok to rest sometimes…living with any chronic illness is exhausting on all levels 🕊️🙏

[@jackiecooley5937]

Hang in there Stephen. You are making a difference in the world 🌎

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you! I really appreciate it!

[@NavigatingthePeriphery]

I can completely relate to your feelings on every level! My schizoaffective kills my motivation daily. I am having issues making videos too! I want to, and set out to do so...then nothing. Since my college commencement in May I can't get out of my own way. Thanks for showing this side. Makes me feel less alone in my struggle!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for sharing!

[@jojokn1]

Thank you Stephen for sharing in a transparent and thoughtful way, I’m glad you’re able to articulate how your struggling at the moment, a lot of people with schizophrenia have trouble expressing how they are really feeling 😢, take care 🤞

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for your encouragement!

[@smallisbeautiful2808]

My brother has had to cut out all grains, especially wheat bran and oat cereals, but also pasta, bread, etc. And he has also had to cut way back on the foods that are made with milk or cream. He has added in good quality 80 percent lean/20 percent fat ground beef from Whole Foods Market around 3 times per week, as well as one pint of blueberries 3 times per week (well-rinsed to get the pesticide sprays off). His energy level has improved tremendously and he hasn't needed to refill his Ativan, because his sleep is good now and he doesn't seem to be having any more of the severe anxiety attacks.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for sharing!

[@barneyronnie]

Rolfing helped me immeasurably in my struggle to get off of the couch...

[@jmedakwon]

You helped me a lot. You are very articulate & it is comforting to hear you talk about an issue I’ve been dealing with alone. Watching this video helps me feel connected. Thank you.

[@calebbrazeau4597]

Don’t worry about responding to our comments, and please don’t be so hard on yourself, you will come through this period, you are a very brave and caring young man, be good to yourself and all will be fine!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for your kindness and support!

[@SmilingBeaver-ou7nc]

I know it's odd, but if I make a to do list the day before it stresses me out for the next day. I started being kind to myself and not putting unneeded anxiety on myself and it's been heping so far. I do things when I feel up to it. it's Always nice seeing you Stephen, and have a fantastic day.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much!

[@NF-im1wq]

I feel exactly the same way but if I can get up the energy to start doing just one thing the motivation will come

[@curtisroberts503]

Hi Stephen. I'm glad to see you out on a walk again. Keep hanging in there. I certainly can relate to your situation as my 25 yo son deals with schizophrenia as well. Unfortunately he lacks insight into his illness and is not as high functioning as you. He is on meds (5 years almost now) and is stabilized but isolates in his home and mostly stays on his bed in his bedroom. He lacks social interaction and has no desire for socializing. I wonder if you are able to relate to us how things are from your perspective. Those who suffer with schizophrenia tend to isolate and steer away from socializing, my son lacks normal cognitive thinking that impacts his decision-making and analysis of situations. I know the disease effects the brain and cognition but I struggle to understand (at least from my son) how "he feels", what's going on inside you what he is thinking and/or experiencing. I wonder if you could relate to us what may be some things that seem to help you if you can relate to these things I've spoken about. Thank you Stephen and ALL the best to you! :)

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for sharing about your son. I will try to answer your questions in a future video soon. Thank you again.

[@sdlock83]

Why do people with schizophrenia look younger than they actually are. When i worked at the probation office, one of the guys assigned to me was 45 year old, but he talks and act like someone in his late teens or early 20s. I later met his mom in court and she explained to me that she gave him earbuds but he threw them out because he believes he's hearing people talking to him and dark secrets bring whispered to him through the earbuds. This was before i understood anything about schizophrenia. I just felt like i wanted to give him a hug. I would totally be friends with you and hang out with you if you live in my area. You're lucky you have a knowledgeable and supportive dad!

[@nativechique7589]

My sons p.o. is bad. My son violated in osychosis and he wrote a thing claiming he has "Oppositional defiant disorder" and should get 3 yeqrs no time susoended etc. Saying he is a danger to society. I told him my son had missed meds here n there and he wrote him up as being non compliant. He used yhe fact several meds didnt work gor him made him need to be locked up. He tried telling me theres great mental health care in jail. O lewrned to nevr tell him anything. My son wears lo g sleeves to check in. I ho ih him so he doesnt end up signin something he shouldnt. Hes terrible. But we have to check in every monday. It sucks. He jas zero capqcity to understand or educate himaelf on mental illness.

[@ChrisPatersonAus]

Great to see you emerging from the fog! I too have to push myself to do things, its hard but it helps🙂 Breathing relaxation exercises help me a lot when I have those low energy periods, and to get better sleep. Something like the 4-7-8 breathing protocol works a treat in lowering stress levels for me.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for your suggestions and your support!

[@lindawilson795]

You are teaching us so much. ❤

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much!

[@flyingcat7975]

Don't feel bad about not working. Many of us who struggle with mental health issues can't work full time. I only work part time because of my anxiety, chronic insomnia, and other mental problems.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you

[@ConstantlyLearnWithMe]

Thank you Stephen for sharing 🎉

[@l.gonzalez9488]

For sleep there are natural remedies like 30 minutes before bed take L-Theanine 400 mg capsules and Valerian capsules. You can research it on KZbin. Praying this helps you! In the morning take B-Complex liquid vitamins and Selenium with Vitamin E as d-tocopherol (it is the real vitamin, but the synthetic is dl-tocopherol).

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for the suggestion!

[@l.gonzalez9488]

@@SurvivingSchizophrenia You're welcome! 🙏 Hope this helps.

[@EvelinPelman]

Keep going. Thank you. Your video helps me understand my baby .

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Glad to hear that!

[@Kevtalkseverything]

Your not alone I have bpd gad and bipolar disorder when all the are combined I can go 2 weeks and can't sleep and then if I'm lucky I'll get a window of a week or 2 where I sleep good but when I can't sleep it causes intrusive thoughts of like trying to self medicate but I don't I just stick out and it's extremely hard but we will be OK and let's remind ourself of that when it feels like no end in sight there will be windows hang in there buddy your doing your very best!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for sharing. I hope you have a happy and healthy rest of your day.

[@Comesailaway]

Your body is in a fight-or-flight state as if being chased by a tiger due to physical, chemical, or emotional stressors. This causes your immune system to function less and affects brain health. You heal when you sleep and thats why people sleep more when in this state. I'm not sure what will help get you out of that state. Probiotics and gut healing supplements, protein shakes may help.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@nativechique7589]

I am watching your vids due to my sons schizophrenia however i feel just like this on my meds. I dont feel like showering. Ha i get moving but its hard idk y ibused to be so motivated begore going thru a string of meds

[@sunnystormy4973]

youre doing amazing ... ! wishing you a wonderful day

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you! You too!

[@metsrus]

what is disrupting your sleep? My sister usually becomes more paranoid when she is not sleeping.

[@good-morninggood-afternoon5049]

Hello, With the current medication, did it reduce your voices ?

[@obelisssk]

Peeped the Animal Crossing shirt 👀🫶🏻

[@BradysNormative]

Ask your doc to add on modafinil maybe?

[@JakeBriggs-dj2bn]

The delusions don't stop im going to try to ask my doctor if I need more medication or something

[@jeanpaultongeren125]

Hey, Is there any chance you are ever gonna try a ketogenic diet, or carnivore diet.

[@metalwhere]

Love the shirt!

[@markpatrick5246]

Have you looked into metabolic keto diet

[@dinoLomedico]

Steven how are you ?

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

I’m am doing ok, thanks for asking.

[@me-cfs-strategiesforhealing]

Hi Stephen, I've been watching your channel for a while and appreciated your videos. There is some research to indicate that there may be a link between ME/CFS - which causes tiredness and loss of stamina - and schizophrenia (although most experts are unaware of that research). My channel is about ME/CFS but I have a video about schizophrenia published a a month or two ago. If you are interested to see where I'm coming from with this comment, have a look at that video and maybe reach out to me there. I believe that I have negative schizophrenia (though undiagnosed) as well as ME/CFS.

[@davecros4887]

Is there a way I can email or speak with you Stephen? I have education and experience that may help you find some peace. I didn’t see a contact email address on your KZbin channel. Please let me know if I can write you an email and I will try to explain.

[@iacovcoc4031]

Make videos for us. Is productiv!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you!

[@DavidBro-q4r]

What’s your Christian life like now?

[@lederpsta42]

Read Anatomy of an Epidemic. Please, it will save your life. It saved mine.

[@BermondseyBoy]

Love your outdoor videos.