Surviving Schizophrenia In Stephen's Words

Welcome to "Surviving Schizophrenia" and an open discussion with Stephen, a 22-year-old with schizophrenia. Not only does Stephen provide us with an authentic, poignant glimpse into his daily life, but he also shares his journey of maintaining a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Having lived with schizophrenia for nearly half his life, Stephen's perspective is insightful and profound. He provides a detailed account of his day-to-day experiences in an attempt to break down the barriers of misconception that often surround this disorder. He's joined in the video by his father, an unshakeable source of support and strength, who brings additional perspective.
Schizophrenia is a condition that affects millions of people globally. It can often be stigmatized, misunderstood, and feared as a mental health disorder, making it harder for individuals living with it to share their experiences.
Stephen emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle as an integral part of managing schizophrenia. This includes a balanced diet and regular exercise, which contribute to overall physical well-being and help in addressing some of the side effects of the medication he has to take. The mind and body are intricately connected, and keeping the body healthy can also do wonders for mental health.
Medication management, an often under-discussed aspect of living with schizophrenia, is highlighted in their conversation. Finding the proper medication and dosage can be arduous, filled with trial and error, but it is a necessary part of the journey. This aspect of treatment is fundamental in helping to regulate symptoms and improve quality of life. However, Stephen emphasizes that while medication is crucial, it is only part of a holistic approach to managing the disorder.
Next on the discussion agenda are social activities and work. While socializing can sometimes be difficult due to the symptoms of schizophrenia, engaging in social activities can help to alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness. On the other hand, maintaining a regular work schedule provides a sense of normalcy and routine and fosters feelings of accomplishment and self-worth. The pride and satisfaction Stephen derives from managing his KZbin channel are palpable. Despite the challenges, it's clear that his work has become an essential part of his life, not only for him but also for his viewers, who find comfort and community through his videos.
Stephen's dedication to mental health awareness shines brightly through his video. By sharing his experiences, he hopes to reduce the stigma associated with mental health disorders, particularly schizophrenia. His earnest discussion about stress and anxiety, familiar companions of schizophrenia, is illuminating. Stephen underlines that coping with these is essential to surviving and thriving with this disorder.
Navigating through daily activities while living with schizophrenia isn't easy. But as Stephen's journey shows, it can be managed with the right balance of medical care, a healthy lifestyle, a robust support system, and the resilience of the human spirit. His KZbin channel is a beacon of hope and knowledge for those with schizophrenia, providing insight and advice to those who may be walking a similar path.
Stephen's message is loud and clear: Living with schizophrenia is about survival and leading a fulfilling and rewarding life despite the challenges. His story encourages us to empathize, learn, and support each other in our journey toward better mental health. It's a testament to the resilience, determination, and strength within each of us, reminding us that no matter the circumstances, we can still carve out a path that leads us to a rewarding and satisfying life.
So, let's join Stephen on his journey and continue spreading awareness, acceptance, and understanding for all those with mental health conditions.

[@lisacastellanos4553]

Stephen, I just want to thank you for all the work you put into your channel! My son is living with schizophrenia and your channel helps me understand him better. Keep up the good work and keep shining your light!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you!

[@anthonyd9426]

Your dad is so kind and understanding :)

[@kl3625]

You should be proud of this channel Steven! You are doing a phenomenal job! Sorry for what you are going through & for the anxiety. I have struggled with anxiety and it is very difficult to live with not even connected to Schizophrenia. You are an inspiration. What impresses me is how aware you are & the fact you have never missed your meditation. God bless you and your family. 💙🙏

[@messpilo]

I enjoy watching your video I had strong anxiety since a child I am much older now . I do not have schizophrenia but I experience most of your symptoms feeling exhausted all the time etc.

[@markussjostrom3699]

Hi Steve and Stephen Greetings from Sweden

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for watching! I would love to visit Sweden one day! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@chelseyscanlon9660]

Your relationship is awesome 🥰 cutest dad and son!!

[@franskel9647]

Oh we're about the same age Stephen! I have schizophrenia too but the illness developed when I was 18. Hope you stay healthy

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much Fran for sharing and your encouragement!

[@cherylmiller2272]

Another great video! My son struggles with sleep, and anxiety. Just today his doctor added another antipsychotic med, so he has 2. We're hoping it will help with the voices he's hearing. That's his main problem. Thanks again for your superb work.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you. Hope the new medicine helps your son

[@Shellperson]

Hi Stephen! Keep up the great work, the world surely needs more of it. I mean, seriously, thank you so much for being so honest about schizophrenia. It really is a struggle for all of us with it. I’m 21 and nowhere near where I imagined I’d be.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you!

[@sonjavanheyningen5880]

In life, your relationship, which happens to deal with this challenge, is so beautiful and encouraging….. what an inspiration to share in how you’re dealing with life’s difficulties…. Which really should encourage anyone, dealing with anything… Both father and son being so gentle and sensitive, so mutually respectful, yet thorough and truthful in your expression, is just so nurturing to watch. Thank you for opening your deepest vulnerability to the world… Clearly you are as a family highly intelligent and through your flexibility have/continue to adapted and developed so well!! May God bless you with good health as you’re moving forward and experience continued life together 🙏🏻🕊️🌱

[@sonjavanheyningen5880]

Just discovered your channel 2 days ago and working my way through from your first videos… 😊

[@beautifulg6886]

Awesome relationship you and your dad have . I am deeply touched by your video. It has been a difficult journey since my son was diagnosed with schizophrenia. Thank you so much for helping break the stigma by sharing your story. Blessings to you and your father.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for your wonderful comment! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day

[@abrandnewvoidchannel4364]

That was an excellent point towards the benefit of mental health and illness awareness. In the Canadian education system, we did not really touch base on topics related to our mental health until our senior year. The only chance that I had to learn about mental health was from a Grade 12 Psychology class. I hope there is far more awareness on some of these issues in society.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you! I hope so as well! Thank you also for all your comments and joining me on my journey

[@pamc7307]

You two are awesome! Keep up the good work,to educate us.thank you

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Pam!

[@noreenquinn3844]

A lovely honest video and very helpful for families. Not holding it in is so important and being able to remove yourself ( at school and in jobs too). Also having a routine and advocating on behalf of others in similar situations. I wonder if the sensory overload symptoms also mean coexisting autism. If this is the case ear buds and wrap around sunglasses sometimes helps. Running or some form of movement / stimming to reduce adrenaline and to increase endorphins also sometimes helps in stressful situations. Swimming can refresh and aid sleep. You are a lovely caring person bearing a difficult cross. No wonder those around you are so proud. Hopefully society and employers, educators etc., will learn through more videos like this and will be accommodating. Being part of community is so essential for anyone's mental health. Employment of well trained case workers / social workers / occupational therapists by healthcare systems is important in this regard. These can help assist with integration into society and jobs ( part-time or full-time) also help with educating society. You have a great family. Well done all! N

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Noreen! Your thoughtful comment means a lot to me!

[@hayleyprice8345]

Coming from a country town then to the coast and within my late twenties learnt I had a mental illness and found it hard to navigate once being released from hospital care

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

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

[@barbaramartinetti]

Informative video. Interested in your diet, beyond sugar, salt and alcohol avoidance. Your videos have helped me enormously as a mom of a similar son.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you! I try to eat regular and healthy meals, while trying to limit my food intake at night.

[@kzl7711]

Great job with the KZbin channel! I appreciate you sharing your experience with us. It take so much courage👍

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you!

[@johnv1176]

thanks guys, great video, I can relate

[@sonjavanheyningen5880]

Question: I know you have said you have never skipped your meds. I would like to know: 1) from the outset when in psychosis, how were you convinced to take your meds? Especially when it did not ‘break the psychosis’ and you’re thinking people are ‘out to get you’? How did you process ‘taking meds’ when you did not believe you were sick, and that lasted for up to 2 /3 years? 2) since getting better, have you never felt, you are doing so well, you could stop the meds? Never contemplated it? 3) as the meds do make you so tired, and the psychosis has not returned, have they researched at all being weaned off /scaled down of the meds while maintaining a healthy life-style and managing the anxiety /depression? Or is this really life-long meds? 4) lastly: prior getting sick as a primary school kid, did you perhaps suffer anxiety /were you stressed about doing well /getting A’s or did your early achievements come to you in quite a relaxed, easy way? Just wondering if there was some anxiety prior …. Kindly Sonja

[@congguo4429]

thank you for your video

[@rafatfarooqui3982]

very informative

[@hayleyprice8345]

Well said

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you!

[@Katejournalsofjunk]

I know this is an older video but I would love to know how you or maybe your parents told and explained your diagnosis and how symptoms effect you to your extended family including your cousins. I know you enjoy spending time with them. I’m guessing they understand and support you. Thank you for all your videos.

[@catherinemccarty2307]

I was wondering....do you ever mourn the boy who was lost to schizophrenia? I was in my mid-20s when I was diagnosed so I had a lot of life experience and education and I miss the person who I was then. I'm not able to work a traditional job either. i'm in my 50s now and I try to do whatever side jobs I can - those I can do when I am not in an episode (like translating/writing/office support for my brother...etc.) It sounds like you aren't experiencing hallucinations right now. One thing I am interested in is how people deal with ongoing hallucinations and separate reality from psychosis. I use my phone a lot to do reality checks...i sort of take a pic then look on the phone to see if its really there. Do try to check on vitamin B12 shots...you will be amazed!

[@catherinemccarty2307]

ohhh one more thing... I would love for you to cover the list of meds and foods that are contra-indicated for people with psychosis. You guys mentioned grapefruit and antihistamines. I have been taking benedryl for many years now. It used to be a common drug suggested by psychiatrists. Now I am wondering....

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Yes I do mourn the life and person I was before my schizophrenia. I think about it every day even though I don’t want to and actively try not to. Thank you for your kind comment!

[@catherinemccarty2307]

@@SurvivingSchizophrenia I have never given that point of view much thought but you might be right...maybe embracing who she was instead of always thinking about what I missed out on might be a healthier way to think of things. Can you tell I'm stil working on the therapy part of my diagnosis. Thank you for the insight.🙂

[@riseabove3133]

Very helpful. Thank you!

[@maryplacencio6350]

Hi Steven I gained a lot of weight on respiridone now I am taking abilify and I am not gaining more kls but I can not lose weight I am so depressed I got my diagnosis of schizophenia in 2020. What can I do?

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for sharing. I can’t give any advice on that. Thank you for joining my journey!

[@thuhatran1013]

What other medication beside Clozapine control your psychosis? And why you need second medication? May I ask?

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

I also take Abilify. The combination has worked for me

[@c.marmion8430]

Nice dad. Very supportive..

[@ishadow6044]

I overdo coffee and take Zyprexa hopefully that’s not too much

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for sharing!

[@user-wb2yv7ll9d]

Stephen, do you ever listen to music? I'm curious how that works with folks that have schizophrenia. Is there any music that sounds good to you? Thanks in advance!

[@sandywhat2429]

So wait a minute, how long after the camping trip did the schizophrenia start?

[@lenovovo]

Just wondering, you having schizophrenia and all, is it possible for someone like you to have an intimate relationship with another person

[@Denise.lussier01]

You make me understand myself so much!! I’m have different diagnoses. I’m proud of you! I wish I had suck a support system! Your dad is bad ass!! 💕💕💕

[@yoga_iaini]

Congrats for your grade! 🤍 Have you consider practicing yoga? The practice of a dynamic yoga such as vinyasa or ashtanga and simple conscious breathing may help with the anxiety and depression symptoms, it also helps to cultivate body awareness and grounding and improves cognitinion. And yoga nidra it's and interesting resource that may help with sleep issues as well 🤍

[@yoga_iaini]

There is some debate wether meditation is safe in cases of schizophrenia, so I would avoid it. Check if yoga nidra and yoga asana are safe, I do think so, specially the asana pratice, but just in case 🤍

[@shri4867]

Can it be cured by yoga and meditation???

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for your comments!

[@yoga_iaini]

@@shri4867 I haven't done such an statement. But I do believe that a dynamic yoga practice with simple conscious breathing (more complex pranayama is not recommended in this case, neither meditation) can help by improving mental health and cognition in general. There is recent scientific evidence that confirms that, as suggested by neuroscientist Nazareth Castellanos, among others.