New FDA-Approved Schizophrenia Medication: Should I Risk My 10-Year Stability? | My Story

[@JorgeLopez-e3p]

Great kid and amazing dad. Keep him close Stephen, and stay strong, you're doing great, and you will improve a lot with the years. We're all behind you!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much!

[@templix5525]

Thanks for all your videos, I recently got diagnosed with Schizophrenia and tried different antipsychotics and found out I'm Treatment resistant as well so they've put me on Clozapine. It was a gamechanger and within weeks I was out of psychosis. Love your story bro and hope you are doing well. Your videos gave me hope and I'm glad we've both found a good balance. Cheers man

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I greatly appreciate it. Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@littlewhitetrees6129]

Can you tell me what dose you’re on and how soon your doctor put you on that dose? My son’s doctor put him on it 4 months ago but has only been gradually increasing it and there has been no improvement with his condition.

[@nessareens8094]

This is really exciting to hear as my own son is struggling with psychosis and a new medication is great news and long overdue. Thank you for keeping us updated Stephen! Don’t be afraid you know Clozapine works for you and you can always go back to it. You’re young and have such a supportive Dad you have all of your subscribers cheering you on! You got this!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so very much!

[@candicemcmillan720]

I love how informative you guys are, speaking plainly and sincerely, about all the things you need to consider, your contemplation and rationale. Managing mental health issues isn't usually simple or straightforward, like your video shows, lots to consider. I hope whatever you try brings you the results you are hoping for ❤🙏

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much!

[@TheStitchesWitch]

I keep the fingers crossed for new ways of treatment. I personally struggle with my schizofrenia for 8 years but I’m in very good place. This weekend I would like to start a medical keto and my dream is to live completly without medication. You have a lovely Dad, which is a great support.❤❤

[@nealeboden5157]

Hey Stephen I will also look into the medical keto diet for my son . Trust in God he has always been there walking with me through this storm and holding my son in his hand . My faith has helped me in this ten year battle that seemed like it would never end . I thought I would lose my son to his sickness but he has pulled through . He is so strong and true survivor I am so proud of him . As your dad is of you . People that have never walked in those shoes can’t ever know the trials of fire people with severe mental illness walk through . I can only say as a dad that I have cried a river of tears for his life struggle . Would love to meet you and ur dad one day with my son

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

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

[@tomplusann]

Thank you for sharing this. My son was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. Once he is stable, I will share this with him. Also, I really appreciate your vulnerability regarding your caution to try these new treatments. God bless you both!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much.

[@mirandadesson1816]

How exciting. I hope and pray it works with less fatigue and less side effects for you. Please keep us posted on your journey. You should be so proud of how far you have come. 🙏❤️ stay strong

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much!

[@faedeela9]

Good on you, young man. Wishing you the best. You are brave.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you! I appreciate that!

[@MichaelBLive]

Keto for bipolar 2 years ago. Very good results. Highly recommend Lauren's channel. Metabolic health based efforts can make med side effects less and well worth it. Cheers, Michael

[@denisekarding1844]

There is a utuber named Lauren Kennedy West called living well with schizophrenia. She has had amazing results with the keto diet. She is very informed and educational about the subject. You are probably already aware of her.

[@AncyllaWijkstra]

Thanks

[@maggiekelley259]

I would like to make a note that she changed the name of the channel to "Living Well After Schizophrenia" since the ketogenic diet has given her complete remission and she's not as cognitively impaired anymore. She just went off the last of her meds.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Denise! I found Lauren’s channel a little over three years ago! Her channel was what inspired me to start a KZbin channel of my own! I have a lot of respect for her.

[@Irishrose777]

⁠so glad you watch her channel too! She’s so inspiring to me as well 😊

[@aew234]

She is recognizing that she likely needs to remain on medication Albiet lower dose Check out Bascuki Group they are finding many clinical trials for keto and SMI perhaps you can enroll near you

[@kata6966]

Thank you for your channel. My son is currently struggling with psychosis. He is on Clozapine. Tried to convince to do keto but he is not willing to do it at this moment. I just want to say you are very blessed to have a father who truly cares about your wellbeing. Unfortunately, this has not been the case for my son. Excited about your future and possibly seeing you doing the ketogenic diet. Maybe your videos will be able to influence my son. Best of luck to you.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for sharing and watching.

[@susanne4028]

Dear Stephen, your channel has grown so so much. It's incredible. Congratulations. I wish you all the best moving forward. Greetings from Germany

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much!

[@ZodiaKittyKat]

I was strict keto for 5 years. It didnt do anything for any of my schizophrenia symptoms. I then went carnivore, not improvements there either. It will be different for everyone. I was just prescribed cobenfy as well but my insurance is fighting about it bc its so expensive. I am tx resistant and have truly tried everything with no positive results. I hope you find alleviation of some of your symptoms.

[@SchizoKitzo]

Love the conversations between you two! I too have been looking at this new med and how it works, though I’m not willing to change my own treatment as of now. But I think it will help a lot of people. And if one day it helps you, awesome. Stay strong and thanks for this vid!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much @SchizoKitzo I greatly appreciate it! I hope you have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@sbocaj22]

please look into medical keto. Im not schizophrenic but i was put on all the same meds (antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, antidepressants, benzos, etc) for undiagnosed autism and and undiagnosed epilepsy. The meds wrecked my whole life. I lost 8 years to being over medicated. ketogenic diet has greatly improved my quality of life and allowed me to get off all meds. I'm the most functional ive been in almost a decade. antipsychotics led to more depression and chronic fatigue. not to mention the parkinsonism and tardive dyskinesias they come with. I wish the best for you and your family. and hope you can reach a better quality of life for yourself. Dr Josef Witt-Doerring from the Taper Clinic has some pretty amazing podcast episodes about medication management and coming off meds if you choose to taper off meds for keto.

[@LivingWellAfterSchizophrenia]

Hey Stephen, appreciate this video and you sharing your thoughts. If you're interested, I would love to chat more with you and your dad about any questions or thoughts you may be having about using medical keto for schizophrenia.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Hi Lauren! I would be happy to talk with you. Could you let me know how to get in touch with you. I look forward to speaking with you!

[@hadeseye2297]

Wow. Two of the most valuable content creators on youtube in one place. Looking at life through your eyes can only develope one's awareness, of additional hardships and struggles some have to deal with. And remove the stigma from conditions you were afflicted by. I wish you both well. Greetz from Poland.

[@Mnemosyne5]

It's so exciting to hear you mention medical keto...!❤

[@schizophreniaketosistherapy]

I’m so glad you are researching ketogenic therapy! I have been treating my 18 year old son who was diagnosed with schizophrenia in January of this year with this therapy and it has given him relief from and controls his extreme manic psychosis symptoms. He is still dealing with many other negative symptoms (that are improving slowly) and struggling to understand what is happening to him still since this is all so early for him and he is young still but I am thankful his acute symptoms are controlled in ketosis as he is not on any medications. On a different note, he also likes Pokémon so maybe some day you two could meet and chat! I think you two would get along well. 😊

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for sharing!

[@schizophreniaketosistherapy]

@@SurvivingSchizophrenia Absolutely!

[@schizophreniaketosistherapy]

I also wanted to add if you ever want to talk about my experience with treating my son with ketogenic therapy I am always happy to chat with you and your dad if you would like. Toward the end of your video your dad was talking about possibilities of going on and off medications/ketogenic therapy and that is a concern as once you start ketogenic therapy it is very important to stay in ketosis as it is a powerful biochemical therapy and will possibly bring on maina/psychosis if you go off on it. This happened to my son, unintentionally he went out of ketosis and did go back into a very intense manic psychosis. But once I got him back into ketosis, which took only about 24 hours since he had been using the ketogenic therapy already for a while, the psychosis went away. It must be treated just like medications but the upside is that it works as powerful as a medication and at the same time it is helping to heal the mitochondria in the brain and giving the brain ketones for fuel which reduce inflammation in the body and brain.

[@MartineStedman]

Hey Stephen and dad! My name is Martine. I have schizoaffective disorder and love your videos. I admire your stability and success on Clozapine. My journey with doctors and meds has been rough but I’m on Risperidone and it changed my life for the better. I hope one day to have long-term remission like you. My boyfriend and I think you’re a great role model. I’m intrigued by this medication too but I don’t want to mess up my stability! You are lucky to have such a caring and involved dad.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for your encouragement and for sharing!

[@yoga_iaini]

It is indeed a very personal choice. Trying the keto diet doesn't necessarily mean discontinuing medication. Some people continue with a reduced dose of their medication (or the same dose) because they find that the diet helps alleviate symptoms and significantly improves their quality of life, sometimes allowing them to function well on a lower dose and in some cases living fully without the medication. Implementing the keto diet alongside the existing medication can help reduce uncertainty and the risk of trying the diet, encourage you to take proactive steps toward improving your well-being and help you feel more in control. Especially when you consider the current medication to be effective. It is also important to consider potential withdrawal effects when reducing medication, as these can be misinterpreted as a relapse. Hyperbolic tapering is essential to consider, any reduction should be done slowly and carefully, especially at lower doses. And it's worth noting that not all psychiatrists are familiar with this tapering method, which is evidence based and now implemented in the UK deprescribing guidelines. It’s fair to note that research on the keto diet as it applies to mental illness is still in its early stages. In my view, trying a new antipsychotic medication poses more risk than experimenting with the keto diet, particularly since the efficacy and safety profiles of newer medications may not yet be well-established. You could get it touch with the Metabolic Mind project to gather more information about the keto diet and discuss it with your mental health care team (evaluate if it is compatible with your current medications), considering also that you might find some resistance or desisterest to it, as Lauren Kennedy West has shared was her case. Understandably, starting a new diet can feel challenging or restrictive, especially when food has been a source of pleasure and comfort. And while it may seem like you've missed out on experiences, this journey has also allowed you to grow in meaningful ways and you have connected in a way already with so many people. Remember, not trying (new approaches or daring to connect with others) comes with its own kind of grief too. I think a coach or therapist can help you address those anxieties and guide you through this process, which are totally understandable but can be overcome 🤍

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for the detailed information. I greatly appreciate it!

[@yoga_iaini]

Take your time learning about ketogenic therapy; it can also be helpful to connect with others who have tried this approach. Building a strong support network, having a clear plan and getting guidance and supervision along the way can make a big difference in how the transition feels, as well as help you adapt to any setbacks, if you decide to go ahead. Best wishes, Stephen.

[@jackiecooley5937]

Thanks for sharing. Please keep us updated.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Will do!

[@elizabethsiebel2807]

Thank you for sharing your journey with us. My daughter was diagnosed with schizophrenia 25 years ago. She has worked incredibly hard to keep herself occupied and educated, becoming a qualified chef and now studying Nutrition Science. However, she often finds that employment opportunities are limited to lower-scale positions like dishwashing and cleaning. How are you coping with employment, and do you have any advice for someone like my daughter who is striving for more fulfilling job opportunities?"

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for sharing about your daughter. I have never had a job. This is a very challenging illness, but there is always hope. Stephen

[@NavigatingthePeriphery]

Exciting news! Hopefully others will become available as well. I suffer with extreme negative symptoms too. I understand your hesitation too. Great to see your Dad in this one!

[@leinad5243]

Stephen has a safe supportive environment...in his situation it is safe to take the risk...Steven has to learn to be his own advocate know himself ...for the long long run

[@catherinej2020]

Living Well After Schizophrenia is a KZbin channel that has helped me a lot with my schizoaffective disorder.

[@aleksandracatt]

You don’t need to go keto, just avoid foods with sugar and candy and eat a healthy diet and you will feel much better. I have schizophrenia and I’m talking from personal experience. When I eat stuff like chocolate or candy or bread, I feel anxious and depressed and tired.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for the advice!

[@YellinHelenP]

The US FDA also approved of KARxt and it treats the "negative symptoms". Have you investigated it? It is a novel medication because it is targeting very different areas of the brain than anti psychotics have targeted. I pray it is something that really works. I also am so blown away by "Living Well with Schizophrenia" and what Lauren has experienced with Medical Keto. I will keep tuned in. Stephen, continued strength! If anyone could do a medical keto diet, it would be you. I can tell you have what it takes for such a regimented diet.

[@MoonSunshine55]

KARxt is now called Cobenfy, they are one in the same. Manufacturer just renamed it once it got approved.

[@ChaiLatte13]

It is understandable to be very cautious. It is certainly best for each with their doctors to decide. I like how you approach these types of topics.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you.

[@brocksprogramming]

I'm going to wait and see how Cobenfy treats other people before I decide to use it. I think it's wise not to be an early adopter of medicine or other things. Another KZbinr on here said the study of Cobenfy lasted only 5 weeks, which she claimed, wasn't enough time to tell the long-term side-effects. Also, the insurance companies probably won't cover Cobenfy until there is more data available.

[@lindaarkert9919]

Understand your fear. Thanks for bringing this to our attention. Sending love.

[@BeckyKay-m7v]

Soooo many great points in this video with you & your dad Stephen!! While it's exciting there is a new medication for treatment. It's also scary to change meds and possibly lose the stability you have now! That's exactly what my 36 year Olds son's situation is now. He's doing pretty well, but still has some negative & positive symptoms on Clozapine & depakote. So we've decided to take a wait & see approach. So we can see treatment results in other users first! I just wanted you to know, that no matter what you decide, and what your symptoms are, your followers will always be there for you!!! We care about you & your wellness!!! Hugs from ND!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so very much Becky! I appreciate you sharing about your son and for your support. I hope you have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@MartineStedman]

I’m also not into keto because I eat “clean” carbs (sourdough bread and veggies). But my unsolicited advice is eat lots of protein. I always feel good after eating protein. Hope that helps

[@elysemattocks1495]

I understand the hesitation changing meds. It is an adjustment with almost any changes about 2 months ago I started caplyda (schitzoaffective), it wasn't a quick choice but working w my care team i gave it a try first month tapering off old meds slowly and added new med i did have reactions but it wasn't bad and for me the change has been beneficial and remember new meds and changes take usually 2 weeks to a month or more as for medical keto u need a strick care team and be very serious because going out of keto can cause problems and even stomach upset please take these questions for yr care team as always thank you for this videos

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for sharing and your kind comment. I really appreciate it.

[@johnv1176]

Thanks for letting me know there's a new medication. Apparently it works in a different way than the current antipsychotics of the last 70 years.

[@jonnaramirez9445]

My son went in keto and became manic. Maybe change depression medication. Don't know what you're on but they have my son on invega sustenna injection, 100 mg wellburtin and venaflaxine 150mg. The venaflaxune really helped with the depression. No physcosis after starting invega injections but he is doing much better. Praise God! After going through physcosis and it's gone from med so afraid to change anything. Wishing you the best whatever you decide. Have a good day Stephen you are such a sweet soul.❤

[@curtisroberts503]

My son gained 150 pounds on Invega. On Abilify now. Has lost 40 pounds.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much!

[@schizophreniaketosistherapy]

Mania can happen in the adaptation phase of ketogenic therapy for those with mental illness, which is usually the first couple of weeks. This usually happens when the ketogenic therapy is initiated abruptly instead of getting the body slowly adjusted. Many ketogenic therapy coaches recommend having a medication on hand during that time just in case. This happened with my son also but only lasted about 48 hours.

[@IlikeTurtles316]

I am interested to see what your psychiatrist says about this. It's so good that there are other options available, even if you don't end up using them. Thanks again for sharing.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you!

[@本の虫-g7k]

Japanese counselor Trust Oshima's book "It? Maybe it's the little trauma girl?" is effective for PTSD.

[@gaylagabriel3485]

I am glad you are investigating the new medication for schizophrenia. I read about it, too. You know me, I am big about diet! Even changing and getting of things you are eating now that not be might be good for schizophrenia could be a place to explore. This is a complex topic and decision to make.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much Gayla!

[@noreenquinn3844]

I'm glad to hear that you are looking at other treatment options with your psychiatrist. New findings arise every day. The brain also changes with time. Perhaps also look at medications that alters GABA levels. Quality of life issues with existing treatments are very real. It is important for psychiatrists and drug developers to take these seriously. More pooling of information on switching medicines needs to be gathered. There are so many variables to take into account when considering switching and when looking at studies. These include patient lifestyle, allergies, triggers, education, compliance, drug abuse, co-morbidities, metabolism and other idiosyncrasies, socioeconomic circumstances, etc. etc.. It is therefore difficult to come to any definite conclusions. You need a really good practitioner who works closely with patients and families. One who researches and gathers information. One who listens carefully to patients and families. You certainly have had extremely difficult side effects to deal with Stephen. Our respect goes to you.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Noreen for sharing your great advice! Your support means so much to me!

[@kitandsons173]

It is awesome to be able to explore new solutions. Tweaking meds or trying diet changes are great options. You can always go back to the normal regiment but you have been proving that you want to go to the next level. You have much better survival skills and understanding of your condition, that was all new when you were younger and a team of people to support you. However, maybe letting others try it out first and try the keto stuff first. However, don't get rid of the meds. Maybe try keto but allow yourself to have easy days too. Vitamin D deficiency biggest cause of schizophrenia in teens. Make sure you get sunlight and vitamin D. So important! Remember, your life experience is more valuable than years of education in the field. You are helping so many people with your one of a kind insight into this condition. Thank you!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you for your insightful and very helpful comment! I appreciate all the support you have given me on my channel!

[@Lipolimtown]

Remission of psychotic symptoms has been reported numerous times from hundreds or thousands of people and there are published papers about the matter regarding Ketogenic diets. Dr. Chris Palmer Harvard teacher and psychiatrist is leading the charge on this. It’s an entirely fascinating process

[@tapasyak429]

It's a tough decision to make. Please do make a video on the update hows the experience with Cobenfy if you had started the treatment

[@kms3063]

I suggest calling a medical keto professional and talking to them with all the questions and fears you have it’s much easier than dealing with psychiatrists medication‘s and possible relapse that’s how I put it to my daughter who loves food too would you rather be on a diet or would you rather be on psych meds for the rest of your life and in and out of doctors offices there’s lots of good food to eat on that diet to And you start to notice good differences within the first week I started noticing small but very deep changes with my daughter almost immediately

[@ghosted1996]

I’m childhood onset schizoaffective and also likely autistic, I agree with your point that it’s different for us. Schizophrenia is a broad umbrella and while keto does help me enough that I mostly stay on it, I have not had the same effects Lauren has had. Because I have more of the neurodevelopmental side, I think I’m less likely to fully respond than someone who had later onset/a more normie presentation. To be fair, I don’t have the resources to get a keto coach and do it “right” but my point is basically that different symptom dimensions like social disorganization and this “autism” (in the phenotypic sense) create a more complicated treatment resistant picture. Psychiatry used to have subtypes of schizophrenia which I think would be HELPFUL and interesting to find subtypes that respond differently to various treatments. I think you have to come to this decision on your own about Keto. It’s frustrating and stressful to overhaul routine but could be worth it. And I would say don’t try the new medication yet.. but I’m super excited to hear from the first people who try it. Also!!! Lamotrigine changed my life with the negative symptoms.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for sharing and for your incredibly insightful comment! You have a great point that it may be different because we both have early onset. Thank you for telling me about Lamotrigine! I will definitely look into it with my psychiatrist. Thank you again, and I hope you have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@remembermyname718]

There will always be something better out there, but if you have already found your balance, I do not know how much sense it makes to change. In any case, whatever choice you make, I believe in you.🙂

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much!

[@barbaramartinetti]

And never think the past decade has been lost....you've encouraged and helped at least 894K (wowza!!!!) people. Recovery will be so sweet....your heart will be full of love, motivation and optimism!

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much! Your words mean an incredible amount to me! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@dawnmarkiewicz1916]

You have a wonderful smile. I have schizophrenia as well and have tried new medicine and it worked well.

[@Redemption444]

Did you try Cobenfy?

[@michellephillips9593]

Stephen understand apprehension re changing anything with treatments..but you'll know when you do have to..everything works itself out...even when it's hard... Your very sensible, intelligent young man I can hear it in your thoughts and presentation... You've got supportive family..fantastic.. All the best Stephen...😊

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so very much!

[@orlandoacontreras]

Greetings from Venezuela, South America. 🇻🇪👋

[@hadeseye2297]

While I'm not schizophrenic I find subject of psychiatry and psychology very interesting. Taken from FDA's site: "Cobenfy should not be prescribed to patients ... with history of hypersensitivity to either Cobenfy or its components." And these are: xanomeline and trospium chloride. First thing to check is were these two part of medications Stephen was taking in first 3 years. And which group of meds they are part of. It's like with antidepressants. There are at least 3 groups of these and they work differently for each individual. While for one patent A will work, but B and C won't, with second patient it may be A, that won't work, but two others will do the job. Consulatations with a doctor, or even two is the key factor here. They should know better what's the difference between cholinergic and dopamine receptors. And what other risk factors can come along. "It is the first antipsychotic drug approved to treat schizophrenia that targets cholinergic receptors as opposed to dopamine receptors, which has long been the standard of care." Now we all have something new to study. Let's hope we will get more news about its effects soon as well. On the other hand trying keto is only a diet regiment, that can potentially improve ones mental state. There's no potential risk of withdrawal symptoms here, that lurks with simply switching drugs. And those may occur as brain already adapted to current mix. That's another factor that should be considered. How well patients feel in first days and weeks after the switch. At least you will know what to expect.

[@Irishrose777]

You don’t have to go off meds to try keto. You can always just try keto for a few months and see if it makes a difference. It’s super easy to switch back to a regular diet. I’ve done keto and now I eat lower carb 50-80g of carbs a day and I’m happier with a little more carbs but not as carb heavy as I used to eat.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thanks for the tips!

[@JIMKATSANIDIS]

Good to see you back, Stephen! Cobenfy can help balance dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. Clinical trials have indicated that Cobenfy is effective in reducing symptoms of Schizophrenia, which is crucial for improving patients' quality of life. Like all medications, it can have side effects like, nausea, constipation and rapid heartbeat. Many thanks Stephen and Steven for sharing this useful and very helpful video, with us! 🙌❤

[@jeanpaultongeren125]

Cobenfy does not cause weight gain, from what I read

[@JIMKATSANIDIS]

@@jeanpaultongeren125 Well said Jean! I checked it out and says the common side effects with Cobenfy include nausea, constipation and rapid heartbeat. Thanks for correcting me! 🙌I edited my comment and changed the side effects, after reading the information online. Have a lovely day!👋❤👍

[@barneyronnie]

Do you take it?

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much Jim! I really appreciate your support and for sharing more information about Cobenfy!

[@JIMKATSANIDIS]

@@barneyronnie No. I don't have issues with Schizophrenia.👋

[@fluctuatnecmergitor]

I think your approach is well balanced. When something is new and FDA approved, there is supporting clinical trial data. But those are statistics not a guarantee of what any specific person will experience, and the longer the period after market introduction, the more information will be available especially to your care practitioners. Likewise, I too understand that the keto/ketosis diet has had remarkable impact on some who have tried it, but the information is, as you said, anecdotal with some papers but the mechanism other the reduction of inflammation is unclear and this was typically coupled with medication. For me, the gain should far outweigh the risk. You mentioned all of the right questions, and in this case it's hard, isn't it. I mean when we adjust my blood pressure medications we measure it and mess around until we get a good result. That's exactly what you have decided to try and avoid - making things worse, and the transition period is something that I'd suggest get discussed as well.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for your amazing comment and great advice! I agree with what you said. You make a great point about the transition period. I hope you have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@maxaffe3195]

The onset is so early. That is weird. Did you ever think of paraepileptic origin of your what you know identify as schizophrenia? Did you do Antibody Analysis? E.g. Check for Lupus? Do CSF analysis and also PET-CT of the brain.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Yes we did check these with negative results. Thank you for asking.

[@marilyndesantos4806]

You are an amazing individual and I wish you well whatever you decide.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for your kind words of encouragement!

[@kaija-liisalaakso8266]

If you taper off your present medication, do it very slowly, even slower than the doctor recommends.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you! That is good advice.

[@leinad5243]

❤ Good work Dad....sometimes you have to take a risk...the real risk you have conquered because you take medication..try it...if it fails it will be clear...then resume the original meds...dont know much about keyto

[@Two_Ube]

Dear Stephen, As a faithful follower of your channel and as someone who has come to know and love you through it, I want to tell you that in your own time the next steps will unfold for you and there is no rush to make decisions if you are not ready to. As the mother of a 23 yr old son who is working on his own mental health situation I offer that it would be a very helpful public service to see your potential journey on a medical Keto therapy. I would be very interested to see if you might like to work through your hesitations about eating restrictions by discovering and sharing meal plans that are satisfying and enjoyable to you. Perhaps even learning a new hobby such as cooking could be in your future? If you can figure out how to implement that therapy into your life and potentially see a positive impact that would be wonderful for you and the potential to help others through that could be transformational. Whatever you decide and in whatever time you decide it, I and all your followers remain here for you. You are an amazing and wonderful human being. Thank you for creating the channel and for your vulnerability. With love, from a mom.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for your heartfelt and encouraging and supportive words! They mean so much to me. Thank you again and I hope you have a happy and healthy rest of your day!

[@marthayoung3203]

Thanks for this video and underlining that these decisions are person and should be made between the patient and their healthcare provider, just like things like abortion decisions. Best of luck.

[@odalisdelgado1924]

Que Dios te bendiga Stephen, eres un ángel.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Muchas Gracias!

[@noufthefuture]

Hello, what camera are you using? Great video

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

I am using a Sony ZV1! Thank you!

[@a.w.j.pilgrim]

Hope it goes well if you try it. I put my schizophrenia into remission with a vegan diet. It took me over a year to cut out each meat individually, so my cut microbium changed. Watching KZbin videos of each animal (, including factory farming and slaughter house videos) made me realise why I was doing it. But honestly my diet and better sleep really helped. But my opinion is you should try new medication or different doses. Good luck. I wish you the best.

[@KarenNuñez-c9b]

Hi pls help me I diagnosed schezoprenia but I stop my medication because of lack of financial I was living with my 2 son nobody family can understand my situation pls help me pls

[@smallisbeautiful2808]

My brother who has severe anxiety disorder does really well if we keep all grains, sweets, and milk products out of the house for at least a few weeks. We know he doesn't simply enjoy those foods, because as mild-mannered as he nearly always has been, he has actually wrestled us over a box of cereal that he was desperate to eat. And the only way we can get him to even brush his teeth is to make a deal where he can have a particular sweet or starchy food that he wants...for example, mac and cheese or ice cream. We can't help but think that his extreme addiction to the taste of high carb foods is what caused his anxiety disorder, because he's so much calmer when he doesn't eat them.

[@DanielPerez-tm5gz]

Hello Thank you for sharing this. I am aware of the new medication and it sounds promising but like you said we won't really know the long term affect. I am wondering if follow the Channel Living well with Schizophrenia. She goes into her experience on the Medical KETO Diet. I have spoken to my daughter about going on KETO but she doesn't want to give up her food choices. Seems like eating a KETO Diet helps with mental focus,energy, physical health and more. Seems like a good idea is to start with the KETO Diet and monitor the effects of the new medication by others. One of the most important things about KETO is that it should be closely monitored and instructed by a professional KETO coach and your Psychiatrist. I am very hopeful of the new medication though. Well I wish you and your family all the best and keep moving forward.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much! I do follow her channel!

[@shanoje]

I’m in the same boat and been stable on meds for years. Wondering if I should go on cobenfy or not.

[@goblin1226]

I'm sure you already know this, but negative symptoms can also be caused by medication. Theyre called "secondary negative symptoms". Maybe switching to a new med could get rid of them? I also have schizophrenia and struggle with negative symptoms. I take amisulpride for my psychosis and it actually is said to help with negative symptoms, which i have found to be true. Maybe its worth thinking about trying something new. Greetings from germany 🇩🇪

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much for sharing this information! Thank you for joining us from Germany!

[@TheBlackCat1337]

I think what matters how the onset happened. That determines what has a better effect than other pshyc. drugs.

[@barneyronnie]

My attitude would be to adopt a ' wait and see ' approach; the medication has just been put on the market. As it is put into clinical use, no doubt there will be more studies and anecdotal reports of its benefits and risks.

[@usharengarajan3288]

Please tell us who your Dr. is?

[@davidradenkovic5076]

You should try keto but taper meds in tiny bits! I have psychosis f29 and ive got more energy and clarity from doing it :)

[@MikeKaye-d3o]

Ive tried every medication out there including cobenfy and still havent seen a significant reduction in my symptoms

[@kms3063]

Try medical Keto My daughter is on this treatment And it is a miracle !!!

[@HannahWarren-MetabolicMind]

Hi Stephen, I am the Mental Health Communications & Advocacy Manager at Metabolic Mind. We would love to connect with you to discuss ketogenic therapy. Would you be interested in meeting?

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much. I may be interested in the future, but I am not ready at the moment. I really appreciate you asking. Have a happy and healthy rest of your day.

[@HannahWarren-MetabolicMind]

@ We are always here to answer any questions you might have and provide resources if this is something you decide to explore. I hope you have a happy & healthy day, too! 😊

[@elizabethterry3717]

Hi Stephen, you mentioned you are taking another antipsicotic with clozapine and lexapro. Can you tell me which one? Thank you

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

I am taking 5mg a day of Abilify and 200mg of Clozapine.

[@elizabethterry3717]

Thank you

[@brodog1884]

I am very hesitant and scared to try it too especially with it being a new medication and my body is very sensitive to meds so I’m worried about bad side effects. I have had my eyes on this medication during the time it was being developed and I have been anticipating it coming out but I’m still scared to start it. I’m hoping if you give it a try it helps a lot.

[@Eddiesgreensludge]

That's pretty cool if someone wants to try a new medicine

[@fmayt7975]

New subscriber will follow you. Thanks.❤

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@marleneray1044]

Look into a new hobby. Find something portable that you can take with you as you move thru life. I started doing "art books", painting each page of thrift store books and making collage Cityscapes and landscapes on them. I've made 10 in the last few years. Art just for me and the process is so freeing. I'm curious as to what you might pick as a hobby. ❤ Hello from St Paul Minnesota

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

That's a great idea!

[@jeanpaultongeren125]

Cobenfy wont be here yet. I would definilty go Keto. I have schizophrenia too.

[@BarkDum]

I have a theory that the reason the negative symptoms get worse over time is because of positive symptoms still being present in an individual who is stable on meds.

[@maxaffe3195]

do you have extreme anxiety every day?

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

I do have anxiety daily, but not extreme anxiety every day.

[@gregdescant4121]

If you feel safe go for it i say.❤

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you Greg! I appreciate your support!

[@ShepherdschapelYTexplainsbible]

Keto worked great for me I had a bunch of metabolic illnesses they were cured because of keto. I'm sure it can help your mental well-being. Basically you're just eating meat and vegetables. Your body needs a break from spiking insulin and sugar so much not to mention processed food so that you can get into a state of healing and homeostasis.

[@ryan-gp3zq]

My side effects are severe bowel motility issues, insomnia and difficulty breathing. Count your stars that youre lucky you don't have those kind of side effects.

[@cynthiahurlburt2819]

It is exciting! Maybe wait a year observing how this new medication is improving the quality of life and side effects that may surface. What is one more year on your current medication regime? Follow your heart and gut feeling. Keeping you in thoughts and prayers.❤ 🙏 ❤

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you very much! I will take my time and not rush into this. I really appreciate your support and thoughts and prayers!

[@maxaffe3195]

please let me provide you some case studies from germany. they are ahead...

[@kaija-liisalaakso8266]

Medical keto is a good idea. And the new medication is a good idea. You need them both, I guess.

[@afef4166]

Maybe tapering extremely slowly to a lower dose using drops

[@afef4166]

My daughter has a similar experience she was sick at the age of 12.

[@afef4166]

She takes clozapine

[@annscozyhome2172]

Carnivore (a version of keto) has helped with my fatigue and brain fog . I hope medical keto helps improve your life too if you try it 😊.

[@winstonblue457]

So my question is this: will we be able to take the new medicine and at the same time we taking the old one, let's say for a while, until we are stable and safe?. or is it monotherapy??

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

That’s a great question! It would be up to my psychiatrist to decide. I am on 200mg of Clozapine, 5mg of Abilify.

[@winstonblue457]

@@SurvivingSchizophrenia let us know when you ask your doc

[@marleneray1044]

Try a new diet for 4 or 6 weeks. It doesn't have to be forever. ❤ Carnivore Diet can do amazing things in just 2 weeks. Happy autumn 🍁

[@goldencaulfield1840]

Hi Stephen, I was just wondering - if it's an option - maybe trying the Keto diet with your current meds might be good. With Keto, it could be in addition to what you are taking now. With a new drug, it's a whole leap off of one thing and to another. Keto seems like a more low-key way to go. If the diet doesn't help, you can always stop and your current meds will still be there helping you. (By the way, the diet includes some pretty cool foods!) 😊😊 You are both The Best !! 😊😊

[@constantinhaller4391]

Dont! if u cut carbs on clozapine u gonna feel real bad dont try it

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much for your advice and encouragement!

[@geraldinenecastro3894]

What medication is he on

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Clozapine 200mg, Abilify 5mg, and Lexapro 5mg

[@GodTurnItAround]

Stephen, has there ever been a stage in your life where you feel like you're living in a fishbowl, being watched by the world? - I have felt this way for such a long time, where my every single action is being "judged" by an invisible audience?

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

No I haven’t, thank you for asking.

[@Juli-o9u1q]

Keep an open mind and try out new things - don’t settle with the status quo. You deserve a better life.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Thank you so much! I greatly appreciated it!

[@usharengarajan3288]

My son is always in psychosis and hard to get his attention. Is he deaf?

[@jennyhohmann4384]

Probably his meds need to be adjusted.

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

I am very sorry to hear about your son. Thank you for sharing.

[@joeking433]

Give it a shot! What have you got to lose? The worst that can happen is that you relapse and have to go back on your old antipsychotics.

[@expression100]

Have you had your Vitamin D level checked?

[@SurvivingSchizophrenia]

Yes I have had my vitamin D level checked and I take a vitamin D supplement every day. Thank you for asking!