Things have been rough

[@LivingWellAfterSchizophrenia]

JOIN OUR ONLINE PEER SUPPORT COMMUNITIES Metabolic Therapies for Mental Disorders: www.metabolictherapysupport.com/ Schizophrenia Peer Support Community: www.schizophreniapeersupport.com

[@tiffinid8961]

I am an RN and have followed your journey. Clearly the diet has done wonders for you, and that's awesome!! Remember, it doesn't have to be an either/or situation. I know you want to be fully off the medication, but the goal is to get you to feel your best. If that means staying on low dose meds at this time, that's still a win. A big win. There is no shame in wanting to feel your best. You don't have to struggle just to say you aren't on any meds. I have been on SSRIs for decades, and have tried to stop them. It is not an option for me, if I want to live. I have accepted that I will take them the rest of my life, and thank God they are available!! I want to feel the best I can. I wish you well on your continued journey.

[@mazzystarr7078]

this is how I see it. I don't want to be doped up beyond recognition but taking a maintenance type dose is good sense. What if she gets sick and can't eat very well, or there's a flood and she can't eat what she usually does? So many variables.

[@BeatrizHatfield-vc4ig]

Just staying on them is risky too. The AD sometimes eventually stop working ‘poop out’ or tachyphylaxis. Or manufactures stop making that AD or change the formulation and you go into withdrawal without knowing what’s going on. Another risk is your AD becoming temporary unavailable. Also, PSSD is always a possibility. And then there is the increase in dementia with long term use. I think all these are why people push on to discontinue. Weighing pros and cons.

[@tiffinid8961]

@@BeatrizHatfield-vc4ig Yes, true. This is the case with a lot of meds, empirically. You have to weigh the risk/reward for anything you take, and often have to change when efficacy wanes. It's exhausting and overwhelming. I would advocate for something that works to improve your quality of life in the present, however. She may just need to stay on 10mg for a while longer, then try again in the future. It's a huge decrease from 100mg, but if it helps her right now, I would advocate for her to stay on it. I know it's difficult. :(

[@hyperthermophile23]

Agree with @tiffinid8961, the need for a specific diet, a medication, a physical support... all of these are morally neutral. I wish there wasn't judgement and abelism attached to this sort of thing, but here we are. Different brains have different needs; both the differences and the needs are morally neutral. If your brain's needs currently include metabolic therapies, psychotherapy, and no meds? Great! Metabolic therapy, psychotherapy, and some amount of meds? Great! Take care of your body and your brain in the ways that work for YOU. If those needs change over time? That's, again, morally neutral. ❤

[@carmencorleto1479]

So true I felt the same. My sister in law was so scared because I wouldn't stop crying. That's when I realized "I need my meds" and I won't be ashamed of saying that.

[@jenniferwalton8928]

I also have schizoaffective disorder and I'm taking psych meds to clear my delusions and hallucinations. At first, I was really skeptical and I was really concerned for you but you are doing great and I am really happy with your results. Great work! And if you need to backtrack and go back on psych meds in a low dose do not see it as a failure just see it as medical support.

[@melanytodd2929]

🙏🙏🙏

[@jojoco120]

💯%

[@omnamahshivaay58]

Somebody help me.. I'm from India, my brother suffers from schizophrenia.after 4 years.. We got a lot of treatment in India.. But he did not heal. Please someone tell me if there is a complete treatment for this in America?. Please 🙏 please help me 🥺

[@jenniferwalton8928]

@@omnamahshivaay58 I take medication that I will have to take for the rest of my life. That's true for anyone with schizophrenia no matter what country you reside in.

[@omnamahshivaay58]

@@jenniferwalton8928 My brother also takes medicines but he is not getting better even with medicines. What should we do now? He has become very angry and has even started beating people 😭 Please help 🙏

[@petunia2008]

You are the most unique and mature person I follow on social media. You are not regressing or failing here, but still discovering the new!! You will get through it, I believe in you! Love ❤

[@jojoco120]

❤❤❤

[@NeseretBemient]

Psych drug withdrawal is not for the faint of heart. The lower doses are the worst part of the journey but it will pass. It's just a matter of time and patience. Keep going! It's going to continue to improve. I'm 1 year off of a cocktail of psych drugs and feeling so much better. Those fearful and doubtful thoughts sometimes show up but I know it's just my mind playing tricks. It's also the trauma of what I had gone through for the 13 years I was on drugs. But I have accomplished more in the last year personally and professionally than I did in the last decade when I was on psych drugs. Reach out if you need any support. I'd love to connect with you and share my experiences on psych drug tapering and withdrawal. Cheering you on!!!

[@marraine7299]

I second this. Losing the last dosage is *rough* but if you power through, it can work. Keep going Lauren; you got this

[@allisonchainz82]

I've been tapering Mirtazipine for four years, I'm down to .38 and the drops below 1mg have been absolute hell. I've been working on below 1mg for almost two years. I did have to pause for about 6 months to have major surgery, so emotionally I've gone down a path I don't have the time to recover from, and keep sinking lower. I just don't see how I'm going to surviive this.

[@Benovip]

100 % agree. I went off cold turkey (do not recommend) and even with medical supervision it can still be very hard to tap out. My husband knew that I was going to quit taking it (I was on monthly injections at that time), because I told him and for the first month or two it was tough. I didn't get psychoses or anything like that, and I didn't get any of the things I got as side-effects when I first started taking the medication, but it was still hard to to get through and I felt generally sick. But I also don't regret going off medication. It was really helpful and life-saving when I needed it, but at the time of quitting I hadn't had a psychotic episode for almost a year, and I felt it was the time to part ways with a medication focusing on one task, and instead focus on my overall mental health (so limit the amount of unnecessary stress I'm willing to accept, and to say "No" more often and spend time with people who want good things for me)

[@marraine7299]

@@Benovip Always good things to do. I'm glad you've been psychosis free. Mine still comes back occasionally when my head hurts, or I'm feeling feverish, but they never last longer than a few hours. So I'm managing it so far.

[@lexamdelac28]

@@marraine7299 how do you manage it? Are you on keto and/or medication>

[@andrewchristensen3774]

(Sarah here): I was ketogenic for 7 YEARS before finally getting off the last of the psych drugs for my bipolar disorder. I'm now 10 months off the last of the last one, and I had to hold at a very low dose of that last one (lamotrigine) for about 6mo before I could continue the taper. It's rough and you've gone fast, and I have faith that you can accomplish being off meds but yeah I think it's expecting a lot to taper off this quickly. Even though it doesn't feel quick at all (trust me, I get that, too, I was nothing but impatient for the first several years and had a lot of stumbles and several hospitalizations as a result of that impatience). Cheering for you, Lauren, no matter how long it takes, even if you go back on a low dose for a while, even if you go back a on low dose forever, you are doing spectacular things.

[@boinkadoinkk]

are you still on keto?

[@andrewchristensen3774]

@@boinkadoinkk low carb now, I wouldn't call it keto, certainly not medical keto. I was really strict medical keto for the first 3 years, screaming high saturated fat intake (85% of total calories from mostly saturated fat, I craved it at first), limited protein to 10% of total intake or about 80g/day, and capped at 20g total carbs. I let myself loosen up in year 4 to something that was ultimately closer to 150g carbs and much more sugar - no coincidence my mood relapsed with 3 hospitalizations that year. I also battled impatience and recklessly discontinuing meds a couple times that year. I got strict for another year after that (2020) and now maintain a stable mood and am med-free on a dietary intake of no more than about 50g-75g total carbs a day (occasional days above 75, most days below 50) and a more liberal protein intake around 130g/day. I have not had to be super strict in the last year or so. I suspect that for me, both the absolute carb intake and the TYPE of carbs make a difference. I do much better when I strictly avoid refined sugar, and maintain good mood/mental health even if I have a little potato or rice.

[@omnamahshivaay58]

@@andrewchristensen3774I am from India 🙏 my brother is suffering from schizophrenia. We have tried everything but he is not getting cured. We have been getting him treated continuously for the last four years, but there is no benefit. My parents have also become very old. And they are very troubled by this disease. Is there any treatment for this in any country? Please give some advice. It will be a great help.

[@louisehogg8472]

@@andrewchristensen3774 super. Good example of persistence leading to success, and the realistic ups and downs of prolonged recovery. NOT the hysterical 'take your meds!' reaction some paranoid people would have us believe is necessary.

[@louisehogg8472]

@@omnamahshivaay58 the comment you're replying to, suggests a possible and realistic route forward?

[@redman131000]

I'm so sorry you've been struggling over the past couple weeks. Stay strong. I remember that a psychiatrist got in touch with you and said it will be hardest on you the lower you get on your dose. 10mg isn't too shabby. But you're light years from where you were before. Keep pushing through though. And if you need a compounding pharmacy, that's totally a valuable option. There's nothing wrong with it. But maybe you won't need it once your mind adjusts over the next couple weeks. Anti-psychotics are very strong meds to say the least. You may have brain fog and feel off some, but it didn't sound like your in psychosis. I look forward to your next few videos. You got this! You can do it! All the best to you, Rob and the fam!

[@KaylaDickey]

I just wanted to thank you for being so transparent and honest throughout your journey. I found you right around the time I found Metabolic Mind and Keto Bipolar (formerly Bipolarcast), and also pretty much at the same time I started my journey on keto to reduce the symptoms of my Bipolar II. I'm down to 1/3 of what I was taking in terms of meds, and just reduced my dosage a few days ago. It has definitely sent me for a loop, but doing this along with you really, really helps.

[@cassif19]

A fresh resident in psychiatry here. I am sorry to hear that your journey is not working as well as before. I would not be surprised if your disease would be coming back a little, but even if you need to take the lowest dose of your medicine for the rest of your life, I would still call keto diet an amazing success, and as long as the diet itslef is not a big struggle for you, you should just keep going on with it. I admire you for being so honest whith the ups and downs of this journey. Schizophrenia is a super complicated disease and we still have so much to learn about it!

[@mbprim]

Neuroscience PhD here! The amount of comments about ketosis being pseudoscience is shocking. Mitochondrial dysfunction has absolutely been proven as a contributor to schizophrenic. Ketosis is never a bad shot (under doctor supervision of course)- not for everyone, but certainly helpful to some.

[@DavisonVideo]

Respectfully, you don't know what you're talking about and have been miseducated, cassif19. These drugs alter neurologic function so profoundly that the withdrawal and ensuing changes and damages take years to wear off and heal from. Psychotropic medication fundamentally alters and disables nerve receptors. Altered consciousness or cognitive symptoms are inevitable when withdrawing from medication.

[@rockabillymuffin]

@@mbprim Personally I havent seen "Ketosis" being Pseudoscience, but criticism for the very limited studies, especially the design of those studies, the general problems and limitations with studies regarding nutrition and its causal and long term effects, as well as the huge industry behind Keto-Diets which does use pseudoscience, the terrible accessibility of the diet and the limited/ no time off meds for Lauren while on medical keto. Ketosis is obviously not pseuudo science and we should definetly look into studying long term its effects on schizophrenia, which has been discussed to not be a mental illness anyway, but a neurological one. (But as a neuroscience phd, I would love to hear your thoughts on those points! :)

[@ashleyriblet2326]

I hate to tell you all. CRISPR technology is the only way if it can to get rid of schizophrenia!

[@Mystic_Paths]

Hearing someone open up about their experience with schizophrenic disorder is incredibly brave and important. Mental health struggles, especially conditions like this, are often misunderstood, and it’s powerful when someone shares their personal story. It helps others realize they’re not alone in their battle and shines a light on the daily challenges of managing both mood and psychotic symptoms

[@NeseretBemient]

By the way, the recommendation to go off of 20mg is ridiculous. And even 10mg is not the best jumping off point. Hyperbolic taper is what's most helpful and safest path to go. The lower you go on the dose the smaller the cuts should be. Sometimes you may need to switch to a liquid taper to manage those lower doses. I'd be happy to discuss this further if you'd like. But there's a proper and safe protocol for drug tapering and most physicians and psychiatrist are clueless about it. It's part of what causes injury for many people or else they're told it's the return of their original illness or an onset of a new one.

[@AshGreen359]

20mg is the lowest dose possible, she has to cut her pills for 10mg. To go lower would need to be done in a lab

[@TakeLiberties]

​@@AshGreen359 it can be done in a compounding pharmacy fairly easily.

[@louisehogg8472]

@@AshGreen359 not at all, unless the pills are capsules that can't be closed if opened and the drug is designed to not release until it reaches the stomach. Otherwise you take the pill, wrap in foil, hit with small hammer, flatten, 'cut' 10% area out with a knife, and lick the other 90% off the foil. Been there, done that. If a capsule, pull apart, tip contents onto foil, do as above, then tip 90% carefully back into capsule. I'd also suggest, since there's no rush as such, if periods are now regular, don't reduce dose during period or 2-3 days before it's expected. Or if you have a bug.

[@21nickmac]

@@AshGreen359 You may be right, but it doesn't mean that Neseret is wrong. Psychiatrists are inexperienced with people coming off such meds because they are taught that once people are on anti-psychotics for certain conditions, they will be on them for life. This is not true for every case, and I believe and hope Lauren is able to prove that for us. Also, couldn't you just weigh a 20mg pill and then crush it. If you want a 5mg dose, take one quarter of the crushed powder with water.

[@wp2488]

@@AshGreen359 Lots of people do smaller. Seroquel’s lowest dose is 25 mg and my last cut was like 6.25

[@infinitejest.4994]

Please don’t beat yourself up. This isn’t easy. I took 3 years to taper off a medication. There were endless ups and downs. When I was younger my period made me feel worse every month. And literally being physically sick guarantees my symptoms get worse. You don’t need to apologize for any of this. ❤ you have a lot of support. Lean on that. You are an inspiration. PS compounding is a great idea.

[@maryann823]

My DIL took 5 maybe even 7 years to taper off Cymbalta. Sometimes she would have to go back up, stay there a little longer and then try again. She would take 3 or 4 months before starting to taper again. Never would she do it at holidays or special occasions. She is doing great now.

[@d14551]

I hope you will completely ignore the comments that seem to be gleeful that this process isn't working for you after all. You have been thoughtful and deliberate about your journey of the last ten months. Whatever happens now, it's plain for anyone who has followed you to see that metabolic therapy has made a huge positive change in your life.

[@nicksworld8940]

Where are those comments?

[@PaigeHigginsVlogs]

@@nicksworld8940oh dude they’re on every video! Go look at her one about the name change

[@carriemiles937]

@@nicksworld8940she said in her last video ppl have commented they hope she relapses & such.

[@fahrenheit2101]

@@nicksworld8940 Probably everywhere if you sort by newest. My gut reaction to the title of the video was along those lines, too, I just had the tact to not say it. (except now, I suppose).

[@fahrenheit2101]

@@nicksworld8940 Ok, nevermind, I checked and there are very few, if any. But still, my point stands, and is exemplified in OP's comment if they simply guessed without actually seeing those comments.

[@beachysands4036]

After I had cancer, I found it was very easy to worry about a recurrence but over time I realized I couldn’t let myself be so afraid of it. If it comes back you deal with the setback and keep moving forward. Your attitude is very healthy. Wishing you all the best. Our bodies are complex systems with many functions. You got this!!

[@daypeanut4406]

Needed this, commenting so I can come back to it.

[@tfsheahan2265]

Count me among the many thousands that have had their fingers crossed since your last video, hoping all would go well. I've still have them crossed. You are very much admired as you put yourself through all this. Looking forward to more updates.

[@AmoralGremlin]

I had worries about the channel change potentially affecting your self reporting/admitting to yourself if you began struggling, thank you for this update

[@Catlily5]

Yes! I am so glad that you are honest!

[@louisehogg8472]

Agree. That's why I subscribed. You're producing a valuable research source simply by recording accurately, honestly and consistently. Experts could likely glean even more than us amateurs, simply from seeing the changes in your articulation, appearance etc.

[@mysa11.11]

Your journey is amazing and it's so brave of you and very proud of you. Waiting for your updates. Keep Going!!

[@keirstin]

Hope you feel better soon Lauren, keep listening to your intuition, you know you best. You’re doing all the right things, and have so much experience with this, you’ll get through it! Wishing you good health! You’ll bounce back

[@melcerra2375]

Couldn't have said it better.

[@Cindy-lt2cm]

You are such an inspiration. I have turned to your channel to learn more not only about schizophrenia, but also about mental health in general. I have learned a lot from you and have a deep admiration for your honesty, self reflection, tenacity and determination and also your dedication to teaching and sharing what you are learning and experiencing in your life. Thank you. I think you embody some of the very best of what it means to be a compassionate, wise, intelligent and emotionally generous human being.

[@TheNecrometerProject]

I have catatonic schizophrenia, and I have to say, it's good to see someone put themself out there and talk about this stuff. Keep up the great work.

[@morningforestfog]

It's perfectly normal. You don't have to feel guilty or ashamed. Let go of toxic guilt and shame. It will help you. I know it's hard given the fact that you are a content creator with a very sensitive audience, but it's not your responsibility to feel like walking on eggshells ❤

[@wren1114]

Good point

[@ianaliciaperry5243]

You can definitely experience psych effects from withdrawal, ESPECIALLY in those first 2-3 weeks. Please don't get discouraged and also remember what a massive role hormones can play in mental health. Your body/brain is still going through a big transition. I admire your clarity and resilience, please continue to be kind to yourself. Whatever outcome of this med reduction, you have been and will continue to be a champion through this whole journey.

[@ianaliciaperry5243]

I wanted to add that it is important to note that different people have different levels of sensitivity. You may be more sensitive to this drug than others, I have certainly experienced this a lot with drugs and other substances. I think if you continue to have issues, looking into a compound pharmacy might be really good idea. Sending love, this shit is genuinely so hard.

[@theangriestoftabbies]

Agree with this. I also recommend limbic retraining it’s great for neurological injury from psychiatric drugs and other chronic illnesses.

[@Intelwalk2]

I have PMDD. At 43 years old no amount of antidepressants would touch my symptoms. I was out of my mind for 2 weeks out of every month, the week before and the week after my period. I had my ovaries removed that year as a last resort to elevate my hormonal changes and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. I was able to stop taking antidepressants for the first time in my adult life. Good luck with your journey. The hormonal aspect of this is real.

[@sarahmottram3369]

❤ I can definitely relate....so glad you're happier....

[@deesecrets]

The week before my period, I get crazy. I get ravenous, want to scream, cry, and have arguments w everyone; bloated. I think I suffer from Pmdd too.

[@Kella86]

What you’ve succeeded in doing is incredibly inspiring and shows what’s possible with metabolic therapy. What happens from this point doesn’t really matter as long as you’re well and doing what’s best for you. There is no ‘failing’ here. You’ve done SUCH hard work. Thank you.

[@sarabird]

Thank you for sharing your journey with us. You have conquered so much this past year. Please don’t think of this rough patch as failure. It is a tiny pause as you continue to succeed. I’m so proud of you. ❤

[@melanytodd2929]

🙏🙏🙏

[@alecaross4426]

Thanks Lauren for keeping us updated especially on the medication aspect. Most people on psychiatric medication are hoping for better treatments due to the terrible side effects of all these medications. ❤

[@EricJacobusOfficial]

Thanks for sharing. There's someone in my life who seems to be struggling with schizophrenia and refuses all help, so I really appreciate hearing your perspective.

[@jennymoore4921]

My Son is in the same situation.

[@shelseaturner9062]

Please don’t suggest keto diet to them. It would upset a lot of people.

[@dardan9218]

I wish you relief and strength Lauren

[@keitoth9697]

I appreciate you pulling yourself together and making this video. You’re doing great and I’ll pray for you to have the wisdom to make the best choice. Here are some thoughts. Last year you were hospitalized. You had a psychotic episode after you were sick and had your period. That’s also combined with the autumn equinox. I’m not into astrology or anything. I’m simply talking about the fact that we are drastically having much less light here in the northern hemisphere. For my entire life, I have been greatly affected by the light change that is experienced in the northern hemisphere by mid September through the beginning of October. You might find that as you look back through your life and your sense of balance, you might be affected by the severe change in light that we experience in the northern hemisphere. Love from Oregon, USA

[@myrnaedmisten599]

Once again, very well spoken. ❤

[@dianehill3279]

I have been on anti psychotics for years. When I tapered off, I experienced really awful withdrawal symptoms, like dizziness, nausea, brainfog, depression, but as difficult as it was, I finally gradually started to feel better as my body was adjusting to the lower doses. I've learned that it's a normal process. You will get through it. It's like the storm before the calm.

[@TheStuport]

Not taking any medication for my mental state of being, I'm way out of my comfort zone in thinking I should offer up my feeling and or opinion(s). I will say this much. I've been cherishing my seat in here for over three years and having seen you Lauren in desperate times, I have to say that the mere fact that you are sharing the recent two weeks in a positive light absolutely shows how far You, Rob and the kiddos have come! Your videos and sharing behind the scenes keeps me grounded and grateful and mindful of others. I have always appreciated you keeping the REAL in your video REEL's! Thank You for helping your Fans as you navigate your own wellness! Stay Strong and Keep Strutting! MOO From COW-lumbus, Ohio 👋

[@tashathomas8196]

You and your husband are the absolute best for sharing all of this, in tedious detail and total transparency. This is an incredible journal and I am blessed to have discovered it while my loved one starts a journey with an as yet undiagnosed psychotic feature disorder. It is central in my study process as I prepare for support. Thank you all again and again!

[@silverc4s146]

Lauren, you are providing valuable insight for thos of us with family members suffering with mental illness. The world is incrdibly empty of good information in these areas. So Thank you and God bless you for all you are doing. You are my hero.

[@melanytodd2929]

🙏🙏🙏❣️🇿🇦

[@PostTraumaticVictory]

Thank you so much for sharing your journey, Lauren! Wishing you a pleasant weekend and good health ❤

[@JNWG79]

Your willingness to be transparent so that others can benefit from knowing and better understanding this process is admirable in a ‘next level’ kind of way. Especially when in the land of online interactions, some folks are more interested in watching a train wreck so they can pontificate how they would have done things differently. But you persevere for the benefit of others, even when it’s time to share that things aren’t going exactly as you’d hoped. Very well done, Lauren. So well done.

[@sharonmclaughlin2258]

I find your journey over the past 10 months amazing. Thank you for sharing.

[@MarybethReese-ri1md]

I thank you so much for sharing and giving hope to people suffering with mental illness. My son has been diagnosed with schizophrenia this past year and he feels like life will never get better. I am trying to learn as much as I can about medical ketogenic diet- finding little help through psychiatrist and nutritionist. I am reading book by Dr Palmer and learning and being encouraged by you- don’t stop. Mb

[@truthshallsetufree1295]

I can’t blame him for feeling this because I have anxiety and depression and I lost my entire life and can’t do much. But it does not mean you stop trying always try and tell your son to try diets and eating healthy and exercise.

[@EleanorWeldon]

Thank you brave, young woman. You are steadfast, loving, intelligent and living in gratitude. You deserve the best that life has to offer you. You work hard to be the best you can be. Who could ask for more? I love listening to you. You inspire me to be brave as well. Eleanor, 65 yrs. old, Depression since age 40. 🇨🇦

[@wp2488]

Gradual extremely gradual!!!! It took me years to get off my antipsychotic and doctors suggested 2 weeks. The last decreases were the hardest. I waited till I felt totally well for a long period of time before I reduced by another tiny amount.

[@rpink8531]

Ketogenic diet & metabolic therapies have been standard practice for treating mental illness in Russia for over a century. Poland also was advanced in utilising this approach. There is an enormous amount of science to back up their benefit YET BARELY ANY to study the interaction with de-prescribing long-term medication. Lauren, you are at the crux of what science must unveil- and THANK YOU for being an honest, brave warrior for all of us. WE ARE ROOTING FOR YOU🎉

[@truthshallsetufree1295]

Thx for the info I will look these treatments up.🎉

[@floomi5]

Lauren, thank you very much for this video and for videos in general. I wish you recovery on your special journey. This video touched me especially and it contributes to my feeling of security regarding the content you upload due to the fact that you share your difficulties in your special way. If it brings you any comfort, know that you give me a lot of inspiration to follow this path and I also see improvements in my mental state. Sending you a big hug and know that there are many, many people who want your best and support every decision you make in order to improve your situation.

[@hannahgracestudios]

It’s a completely foreign concept to “de prescribe” medications for schizophrenia. As someone who lives with the illness also, it’s just not something that’s really ever talked about because it can be so risky. Kudos to you for going through the process. Withdrawal from antipsychotics can be so intense, it makes sense that there’s gonna be an adjustment phase. And that doesn’t mean the illness is “coming back”. Your brain is your brain. And all the good things you have been doing for it have shifted its baseline. Anyway, all that to say. Proud of you for riding the waves. Thanks for sharing your journey with us. It’s been really helpful to learn about it. ❤

[@shaynaformity1384]

Whatever you decide, you are a rock star, Lauren! I am so proud of you. You are such a shining light exemplifying kindness toward yourself as you navigate this uncertain path. Just keep on exploring and discovering what is right for you in this moment. And in the next moment. And in the next one.

[@Raydluow]

.eno txen

[@erikajensen3675]

Lauren, I have watched your channel for a number of years now. Seeing your videos in the past few months has been amazing. Your journey with the keto diet has clearly made such a positive impact on your life. When you smiled and laughed in this video it was so heartfelt, beautiful and unencumbered. Please don’t stop advocating your self and for others. You are an amazing human.

[@boblevey]

No matter how this all shakes out you are just amazing. You are so transparent with this illness. Many could never be, so thank you!!! I think you’re going to be fine overall. Blessings to you and Rob 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@lauraherschman3292]

I just found this video by accident, watched 2 of your videos and I think you're awesome! Congratulations on your journey and thank you for sharing. You are an inspiration to anyone who is looking to improve their situation through a healthier lifestyle. I'm a 77 year old golden-ager, also in the process of reinvention. While our circumstances are different, our journeys are similar. Keep on keeping on and continue to share!

[@caitlinhoey841]

Thanks for the update, Lauren! I just tapered down to 10 mg of my antipsychotic two days ago. I also have experienced mild headache, poor sleep, and a little anxiety. I usually (on all 3 of my other 20 mg drop downs) get intrusive thoughts. The f-bomb will interrupt my thoughts, some days a lot. Some days a little. It took 1.5 months for it to go away on the last 20 mg drop down I did. It always has though, which I am extremely grateful for. Maybe give it a little longer if you are feeling like you can handle the withdrawal symptoms? Stay positive, and I’m sure you will decide what is best for you. You know yourself well. Thanks for sharing that the last 10 mg was hard. I might do a 5 mg dose to taper off slower now. All my best to your family and you!

[@nickynisbet6247]

Aww Lauren, sorry that things have been rough for you.. So easy and understandable to feel a sense of failure/ defeat. I've been there many times. However you are doing great at keeping a sense of perspective and balanced thinking 🤔 on balance the past 10 months have been positive and life-changing but the journey hasn't been smooth ❤❤❤keep going lovely lady. Much love from Scotland xx

[@shastaacker6060]

Keep going! There’s something called post acute withdrawal syndrome. It takes time but it gets better. I was heavily medicated too and now I don’t take any and I don’t have symptoms but it took time

[@rolew7882]

It hasn’t even been a year and you e come so far!🎉 your self-evaluation is spot on. How far you’ve come!! ❤as a parent of an adult schizophrenic even the journey to switch up meds is never simple. You are an inspiration. Blessings.

[@bipolarway]

Keep going, Lauren! I remember that going off my Lamictal 25 mg was the worst! I had brain fog for a month and very nasty set of physical symptoms like heaviness in the legs, chills. But it passed! I'm off the meds and feeling great! As you said, there are fluctuations, like I have much less energy a week before my period and more anxiety too, but at least I know it's not a side effect of meds and I am in total control of what is happening with my body and mind

[@benaycock1646]

You’re so impressive! Sending love through your journey in life❤

[@sand352]

I admire you for your honesty! Keep going!

[@Nangel2]

Lauren, you're always so well-spoken - thank you for sharing your struggles with us all. I was so hoping this process would work out for you, while at the same time being really worried that it would stop working and/or that you'd experience some kind of "backlash". I hope things look up for you again soon, whether that means going back on meds or reevaluating/restructuring the metabolic therapy. Please always keep in mind how far you've come and how strong you've been through it all.

[@normative1058]

I hope you success on your journey Lauren..

[@threepurrs]

Wishing you the best in weeks to come Lauren.

[@suzannealsop3394]

Aww, bless you Lauren. Try not to 'overthink' it if you can. It is what it is. When I tried lowering my meds it wasn't until 'months' after that the withdrawal effects came about. For me personally I stay well by a small dose of antipsychotic meds, plenty of sleep and as simple and stress-free a life as possible. I would be grumpy on keto so choose to treat my illness this way. I'm sure you'll pull through this but I guess there is the option of small dose of meds and keto as preventative measure to make it easier on you as an option if that is what you desire 💚

[@keatonmorrison2979]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I have been following along with you and have struggled with a similar diagnosis. I too tried a ketogenic diet to manage my symptoms previously, but did so from a very uninformed place. Your videos have made me feel empowered and I look forward to them each time they are posted. Thank you for the mutual vulnerability.

[@AmyBrandlin]

I’ve been on psych drugs for years- was off in 2016 and received a criminal record as my reward. Then I was put on a lai and called it my “shut up shot”- I got off the long acting injection of abilify and have tapered to less than half my dose. I’m impressed with your goal of being medication free! For me going completely off might land me in jail so I’m going to stay on my baby dose, hoping it works. I would probably not have the discipline to do keto- and fear for my kidneys. I’m am off disability and work full time as a nurse. I consider a low dose success enough for me.

[@heatherbukowski2102]

Congrats on your progress, Amy. I'm sorry the mentally ill aren't given more care and respect when they are experiencing mental health symptoms, rather than just tossed in jail. :(

[@AmyBrandlin]

@@heatherbukowski2102 thanks!

[@BB-yw1ez]

Amy: do you mind sharing why you got a criminal record? What’s your illness? Bipolar? I am sorry if nosy; I am trying to understand. Thank you.

[@mazzystarr7078]

a low dose is a success, I don't see the point in not taking a low dose unless you are completely medication adverse, which she is. I think it's a poor decision. Maintenance dose and keto is a better option, bc how can a human be perfect in their diet all the time. There's gonna be ups and downs.

[@bear6699]

@@BB-yw1ez Knowing this info wouldn't help you understand more though?

[@erinashleyhuffman7878]

Thanks for your honesty and vulnerability to share the ins and outs of this journey with us. You are brave. You are precious. And you’re story and experiences continue to be a huge gift to me as I learn how to navigate schizoaffective disorder as well. I imagine this “perfect storm” of stressors will be something you’ll turn into wisdom and insight on how to give extra love, compassion And care to yourself when your body and your world give you extra stressors that are out of your control . You’re awesome Lauren !!!

[@ivanhunter6492]

Keep up the great work, Lauren

[@jesusdidntcharge143]

You are an articulate and courageous pioneer. Thanks for sharing your profound and heartbreaking journey.

[@gregdescant4121]

Im so sorry that things have been much worse i just want to say that im thinking of you and praying for you to feel better soon.it must be so hard to experience this and function in everyday life.

[@luneparadox]

I'm so proud of you for being so vulnerable and being honest and transparent. I'm so sorry you were hit with the perfect storm of challenges but I am grateful this happened in the fall not in the winter. I mentioned to you before I've been worried about your mental declining in the winter especially not being able to be so physically active running outside and then this just gave you that preview. I completely believe in autonomy. So your choices I believe firmly are yours to make. I'm also glad you brought up your lunar cycle. I have PMDD with several extremely difficult chronic illnesses so every time I'm about to start my period I go into flares which is extremely difficult. I'm glad you're open to doing whatever is best for your wellbeing and your family. Thank you for this honest update and know my concern isn't from judgment. I wouldn't waste my time if I did not care about you and Rob. 💞

[@christie07olson]

I’m grateful for your honesty ❤😊

[@Gemtiger279]

1. Getting down to a very low dose of medication is a big achievement. Quarter of a therapeutic dose. 2. You may need to reinstate medication and micro taper. By small percentages slowly over time. 3. Joining a medication withdrawal support group on social media or online forum may be insightful. 4. Orthomolecular nutrient treatment protocols can be supportive. Notable names. William Walsh. Carl Pfeiffer. Abram Hoffer. 5. You may need extra psychological support. Therapies that may have some benefit according to studies or clinical reports include. CBT. ACT. DBT. Psychoanalytical psychotherapy. Open Dialogue. 6. You may have ups and downs as a natural process and progression of life. You will need to way up benefits versus drawbacks being on or off medication.

[@debbielannom3599]

Lauren, I have a wonderful psychiatrist who has helped many family and friends. He’s never heard of metabolic therapy, which really surprised me. Hopefully research will continue thanks to people like you.

[@Wbrooks01]

I just found your channel tonight and watched so many of your videos. Wishing you the best of luck through this process.

[@pamelaparrish7002]

As always, Lauren, your thoughtful, learned, and transparent reflections on the experience and journey is SO VALUABLE, and SO APPRECIATED. Thank you!!! Going forward, as always, I believe your plan for moving forward from here is very wise, very judicious. From experience, I definitely believe that the "de-prescribing" process is handled too quickly in general. I feel there is a high likelihood that your experience these past two weeks could have been softened dramatically by going the compounding pharmacy route, dropping from 10mg to 5mg, and even then dropping to 2.5mg. Anything to soften the experience. Please know how much I am rooting for you, how much respect I have for your high level in engagement, and your ability to keep the large view in perspective, even keeping a small dose of medication as a possibility. What more could a person do? You are All In, and I am rooting for your process, in all of its potential forms. Your transparency helps us all. Thank you!!!❤❤❤

[@Rhee1231]

Just wanted to thank you for keeping us part of your journey. Thanks to you I have started my sister on keto and your journey is giving me big hopes for her recovery. I know this is easy to say when I am not the one directly struggling, but even if not 100% recovery , any improvement without drugs is a big big hope for us. Please take good care and thank you for being transparent and detailed about your journey. It has helped me understand my sister better❤❤❤

[@LK-tp2le]

I think the reality is that if you choose to manage mental illness through metabolic approaches, any time something alters your metabolic functioning e.g. sickness, stress etc there will likely be some breakthrough symptoms but so long as it's only for short periods and it's somewhat manageable then I don't see the need to return to medication

[@reinerschafer1708]

Agreed, this is not well charted territory. It makes sense that anything that affects your metabolic state, whether it be sickness, hormonal changes, change in sleep or exercise patterns, as well as food of course, could very well have an impact on the therapy.

[@_sunnycute_]

I really enjoy your channel and have watched off and on for several years. I’m really happy for you. I like the idea of keto and a bit of medication, for me that is. I just had a baby and my mental health feels rough at times and the meds sort of anchor me in. The ketogenic diet helps with energy, brain fog, and symptoms of my illness. I too live with schizoaffective bipolar subtype. Once my baby is older and life is more steady I may try to do no medication. Thank you for being brave and so well spoken, I enjoy listening to you. Good luck. Sending positive energy your way

[@ivacheung792]

Thanks for your candour, Lauren. I'm glad to hear that your psychiatrist is still engaged with your care, even though you've tapered off your psych meds. I know you've talked in the past about how disappointing it is that he hasn't shown much curiosity about your medical keto journey. If you have the kind of relationship with him where you feel comfortable proposing this, how would you feel about asking him to write a case report on your experience? Even just the deprescribing piece would be so, so valuable to have out in the peer-reviewed literature. If he feels like he can get some sort of academic recognition for having seen you through this process, it might spur some of the curiosity that has been missing. And it's so important to have stories like yours documented in the literature for other practicing psychiatrists and researchers to learn from. I know it sucks to have the publication hierarchy where your detailed video documentation of your lived experience is not valued as highly as a journal article, but unfortunately those are our realities. Hoping you feel more completely yourself very soon!

[@laurfred2742]

Wishing you the best as you overcome this obstacle in your journey. I am blown away by your level of self awareness and know you will get to the bottom of this.

[@susancham4632]

Thank you for your honesty and vulnerability in sharing all of your ups and downs. I wish you all the best! Please don't be too hard on yourself if you find that you are unable to go completely "med-free." In the long run, your health and happiness and being your best for your family too is the most important. Perhaps Keto plus a far lower dose will be better than either med-free or heavy meds.

[@DP-dr6gi]

You are so inspirational. Thank you for being you and being here. ❤

[@michelleford7392]

I can never go off my antidepressants, as I learned from two disastrous attempts. Don’t feel shame no matter what you land on!❤❤

[@sarahrose1454]

Me too, I’m on this stuff for life…..I get suicidal otherwise…….. I’ve just accepted it, and it’s ok ❤😊

[@jeanpaultongeren125]

im on meds too never thought I would say this . its okey

[@sherrinewman8642]

I support you! Thank you for sharing! I believe in this route. Keep making best choices for you. Being sick adds so much. Prayers for your passion to help all who suffer.

[@ra-wm6ys]

Sending you love ❤ you have given me so much hope ! Keep going

[@TorgerVedeler]

Thank you. I continue to be in awe of your strength, and I am still holding you in the light.

[@garbo123-qc1jg]

From my experience with helping my youngest son taper off of risperidone it was the “Final Cut” that can actually be the hardest. It took our family eight months to finally get him off that final dose of medication because we went extremely slow with a 10% reduction every 10 days to the point where I was cutting his pills and weighing them on a small electronic scale. I wish you the best!

[@pollyseifikar7751]

I wish you all the best, Lauren! I appreciate your videos so much. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us. You are out here changing lives!

[@tabden]

EVERY TIME we reduced/changed medications, regardless of the speed of reduction, we had a period of adjustment. Thank you for sharing your journey.

[@layceelou2275]

You are so strong and amazing for doing all of this and putting it out on the internet. I am so thankful you are sharing your journey. Keep your head up being sick is so taxing on mental health. I suffer with GAD and being sick spikes my anxiety every time. I am glad you are doing this with a good support team in place. It sounds like you are doing exactly what you should.

[@SpeedKreature]

My partner, also on metabolic ketogenic diet, experiences what she calls "schizoaffective light". Hers is the pure depression (vs bipolar) variety. Her symptoms include occasional moodiness outside of normal, difficulty getting herself motivated to get to class or advisory meetings (even though her degree is deeply meaningful to her) upon waking, and occasionally, unconsciously, referring to herself in the third person (which she never experienced before). That said, it's a huge improvement over where she was and with social support (me, family, friends) she believes this is a path that she can sustain. As before her metabolic treatment, she can usually tell when things are about to slip, and I absolutely can (prodromal symptoms include dropping routines, "brain fog", unusual self-expression, and resistance to adulting and exercise). She says in hindsight, the shock of still having symptoms was worse than the actual symptoms. One should always choose the path that suits them best, but I think to do that well, it's prudent to get enough data about what is going on to know what you're really dealing with. Be the tortoise, not the hare. Good science is time-consuming.

[@briandelp1136]

Thanks for your bravery and clear, professional approach all along to this years-long journey.

[@awakened3651]

You're going to have to taper the last mgs a whole hell of a lot slower. That is the hardest part and 10mg is nowhere near 'the end'. We had to get liquid versions of meds for my daughter to taper slowly enough so she didn't experience the brain zaps and other effects of withdrawal as severely. We went to the liquid version because it is not possible to cut 5mg and 1mg pills accurately enough and they don't make all meds in those doses in pill form. It was literally reducing by 1 mg a month, holding at that dose for a month, then fractions of a mg. The last mg was the hardest to wean off and we did have to go back up a quarter mg for a week more than once. She was on .25mg liquid daily for several weeks, then we spaced the doses out to every other day for a month, then twice a week for a month then once a week for a month before stopping entirely. It then took two more months before she realized she had stopped feeling withdrawal effects. Nobody tells you that getting off these drugs can take the same amount of time that you were taking them. If you were on a drug for two years, it can take that long to get off without experiencing serious withdrawal symptoms. Don't give up, just radically accept the fact that it's going to take a lot longer than you hoped.

[@arielsalmon6429]

You are an inspiration whether you go back on a minimum dose or you continue without meds. You are an inspiration to me. It's okay to have fluctuations in your mental health.

[@ameliab324]

I personally would keep the channel's old name, because genetically and structurally let's say, you do have schizoaffective disorder. But you are doing just that, living very very well with it - to the point where it's barely noticeable that you have it. So Living Well With Schizophrenia seems to suit your channel perfectly, especially given the amount of educational videos that you did previously on your illness itself. To be honest, when I first started watching you, I was a bit like 'It's called Living Well with Schizophrenia but this girl seems miserable'. Now you don't, now you're actually living well. I would say that Living Well After Schizophrenia is maybe true for you, but it kinda implicates that mindset that healing is linear, which in mental health is rarely so. I mean, yes, it is linear, but not *entirely* linear. Like, even after a huge breakthrough that changes your life drastically for the better, having struggles with your mental health is normal. It's not to say that I wish or even predict such struggles for you - it's just the case for many, many people that have mental disorders. So I feel like drawing this super thick line in between 'during schizophrenia' and 'after schizophrenia' may kind of suggest a false image of the recovery process to some? Still, you do you, I won't be, idk, mad or offended if you change the name. Also, I like how your channel is now just Lauren Kennedy West, and I think it wouldn't be bad if it stayed like that. After all, it's all a document of your and your family's personal journey

[@zarabzara284]

Thank you for continuing to share, Lauren. ❤

[@Catlily5]

Keep figuring out what works for you! Remember that mental health is the ultimate goal. If you have to get off more slowly it is not failing.

[@theangriestoftabbies]

I’ve been a fan of yours since the beginning. I’m so proud of you that you had the balls to take this on and see it through. You’re a shining light for others to realize that psychiatry and their poisons aren’t the only way. Praying for your continued strength ❤

[@amypearsall]

I wondered when you described using the keto diet, whether that is going to be sustainable for the rest of your life, for symptom management. Probably good to have a check in with your doctor.

[@nutherefurlong]

Really appreciate your continued journaling, it feels really important. Take care

[@michelemolina3462]

I have schizophrenia and I have been on meds for 30 years I have been on abilify and celexa for depression. And I had to except the fact that I will never be able to get off of it because, my family is always on me about taking them always reminding me of what happens, if I don't take them. 😭I'm getting so tired of it. What do I do or say ? I'm 50 year's old . But I really think you're stronger than you think you could do it.thank you for sharing your story ❤

[@janellenelson4]

DE-PRESCRIBING TIP: I’m not sure how pharmacy works in Canada (I’m in California), but when I decided to wean off of my SSRI I asked the pharmacy if they carried the liquid form of my SSRI. To my surprise they did! My insurance covered it too. I asked my psychiatrist to prescribe the liquid form and I have EXTREMELY, slowly tapered down. My psychiatrist did not know that a liquid was available, nor had anyone do what I’ve done. It was a learning experience for her too! I am still on 3mg of liquid and honestly I still get withdrawal symptoms when I go down even. 5mg. But it’s much more manageable! I understand that antipsychotics are a different compound, but children are prescribed them too and may not be able to swallow pills. If you can get the liquid…It may be worth going back up to 10mg and then slowly tapering down.

[@heatherinCT]

Was this by chance paxil?

[@janellenelson4]

@@heatherinCT Lexapro, but I would ask your pharmacy if they carry Paxil suspension. You never know!

[@zerochan3388]

I hope you get through this! The withdrawal is the hardest part. You are acting as a scapegoat for the rest of the schizophrenic community by trying the keto method and this is highly admirable! I really hope you never relapse again because it would give credit to the keto method and inspire others to engage with their psychiatrists to try med-free options.

[@natashaprice9917]

The compounding pharmacy idea could be a good idea.its hard also to be under the weather as well as that big change.plus also you broke up with a long term relationship with a psych drug.you are doing so well Lauren.all of us love and support your journey ❤️❤️❤️

[@katastrophicfailure99]

Thank you for your honest and informative updates, and the self analyzation that you continue to go. All the best on the continued journey.