What is Schizoaffective Disorder?

[@LivingWellAfterSchizophrenia]

JOIN OUR ONLINE PEER SUPPORT COMMUNITY Schizophrenia Peer Support Community: www.schizophreniapeersupport.com General Mental Illness Peer Support Community: www.onlinepeersupport.com

[@kevintewey1157]

" Who live" with?Does that mean you have it? Or who?

[@crystalcollins3741]

I have schizophrenia and schizoaffective and bipolar it's not easy for me

[@kevintewey1157]

@@crystalcollins3741 thanks

[@gypsysoul4190]

My Beloved Son took his life because of the schizoaffrective disorder along with bipolar mood disorder. He was 31 years old. Not sure he received proper treatment. He hated the meds because they made him feel like a lifeless zombie. I miss him terribly and he has such a BIG HEART❤❤❤❤❤

[@sylvieglock1144]

So sorry 😞

[@starrhall8160]

Sending love to you.

[@krystyleent2349]

Sorry for your loss.

[@sunnyskys2428]

This is horrible. I am sorry about your loss.

[@rosahassan7863]

🙏🏼♥️🙏🏼

[@shayneholladay]

I was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder and currently healing from my second episode. My key take away was that drugs are my downfall. If I stay sober and trust my medication I am positive that I will recover. I am 21 years old and ready to live my life!

[@liftedlegend419]

I relate, im 18. Just wanna say, if it means anything. Great job man, it aint easy going through a dual disoder. You are strong and you can keep going. Thank you for your comment i needed reminded. Be happy & blessed

[@indigentfeline]

How you doin

[@PatrickEvans-x1v]

Do you get violent outburst or violent thoughts?

[@thingsicookforher]

Drugs help speed up schizophrenia development. A lot of people don't know but things like thc (weed) and the chemical compound in benadryl can cause hallucinations. Stay away from everything if you value your life.

[@joannajohnson2669]

What does an Episode feel like

[@bea4912]

my dad was diagnosed with schizophrenia then bipolar and then schizoeffective disorder just recently. he is currently going through an episode and watching your videos have really helped me understand what he’s going through and have really educated me and my family. it reminds me that one day he will be back to normal so thank you!

[@shieh.4743]

❤

[@Nope2022HugeTheWarningFan]

@@douglasjones5630 "I Love People who are in Need! Look toward God and the Lord Jesus Christ for Salvation!" So you can manipulate them into your 2000 year old cult? Very pseudo-honest...

[@mitseraffej5812]

Lance Lust . It’s not only Christians that manipulate the vulnerable. Recently a young man who I have know since his birth took his life at age 32. He had been in and out of psychosis for some years. During his illness the Church of Scientology fleeced him of every penny then abandoned him. Not one member of their cult attended his funeral. To his death he believed that they were the only ones that understood him, in reality they just fed his illness to facilitate the theft.

[@demonaicunicorn]

I was diagnosed with paranoid schizoaffective disorder at BCT that was an interesting experience

[@randomnameforarandomnerd8400]

i (and my therapist) believe my father has schizoaffective disorder and would be diagnosed with it if he would receive mental help.

[@shelbiszikula3052]

as someone misdiagnosed as bipolar and just recently rediagnosed as schizoaffective, i’m so happy to find others like me living a relatively normal life. thank you so much for spreading positive information about such a stigmatized subject!

[@mjmartinez3244]

I don't know if you would mind me asking some questions. My son (25 next month) has a bipolar disorder and he won't take meds because makes him feel like a zombie. TODAY he had a very serious psychosis while we were fishing and got upset because he thought his friend was hitting on his girl. He went into a psychosis and took my gun out of the glove box and went after his friend and told him he was gonna kill him. I started screaming for help. I got him in the car and he had the gun and told me he was gonna kill me and himself. I have never been so scared. He was like, go with me mom, just me and you, we can be together forever cause just k ow when you die, I'm gonna blow my brains out. He talked about murdering people to make him feel better. I WAS SO FREAKING SCARED. I pulled over to a gas station, locked myself in the bathroom and called 911. He was screaming at me from the cop car a d banging his head on the wimdow, then 2 minutes later he was laughing and said ya'll got me like a bird in a cage. The cops took him to a treatment facility and said they were not going to arrest him b/c clearly he was having a mental health crisis. If anyone can answer who has been through this- will he remember everything that happened today or will it be foggy. They called me from the treatment facility asking me if he was allergic to any meds. I could hear muffled screaming in the background. I said, is that him, she said yes, he is throwing things, tearing up the unit. They were about to sedate him. I feel so lost. 😭 I'm praying this community can help me out. Signed- heartbroken at the beach in Florida. It's almost 10 pm at night and I came to the beach after the police took him. We come here to watch the sunset about 4x a week.

[@elisabethcampbell9301]

I am schizophrenic with major depression and autistic. I I went through a similar diagnostic path as my symptoms developed. I know it’s silly, but I found being diagnosed as a schizophrenic helped validate all my pain and confusion. It was like someone saying, “I see your pain and this is how we are going to treat it.” The reason why is because I was in a lot of pain and I needed someone to give me the proper treatment. I like the idea of being on the spectrum because, while my psychosis is severe, I am still able to have some motivation.

[@johnathanhelton]

I'm schizoaffective, PTSD and ADHD. I think I'm also high functioning autistic, but it's not enough to get a diagnosis. And I found that I felt validated after getting my diagnosis as well. I was 38, so I had lived through a lot that I felt was just a weakness of my character. But I know now it was a sickness and it wasn't my fault. I feel so much better thinking in that way. It's definitely a shitty diagnosis, but I can now sperate myself from it.

[@StandUpRiseAboveItALL]

nai nai could you please define your abbreviations ?

[@rick3747]

Autistic and Schizo-effective, brother. 50 years ago we'd be locked in Pennhurst or Willowbrook. ✌

[@aaymathebest4705]

@nai nai Are these RTSM are available in England?

[@aaymathebest4705]

@nai nai please can you write this txt back?

[@awesomewolf26]

I am so happy right now I have schizoaffective and I'm so happy to see it being talked about

[@amandaowens8458]

I freaked out when I got that diagnosis. I thought it was a death sentence of sorts. Now with proper medication and therapy as well as support I'm good.

[@amanuelabebe3450]

@@amandaowens8458 I am so happy to hear that, my cousin has schizoaffective disorder but she's not in good condition for the last 8 or 10 years with taking of medications. She lives in back home Ethiopia. She is now 28 years. If you don't mind can you give me please some tips about treatment, coping mechanisms... that helps her . I look forward to hear from you Thank you Minwuyelet Abebe , Maryland USA

[@amandaowens8458]

@@amanuelabebe3450 the core needs are several that can make all the difference. The first thing I had to do was sit down before I had a doctor's appointment and write a list of symptom even if they didn't seem related. I found having help with this was important. One time when I did this we found out I was reacting negatively to one of the meds I took. The right doctor makes all the difference in the world. Depending on just how sick you are you may want to take someone with you that's familiar with your particular symptoms and issues. This could be a family member or an advocate. The thing to watch out for with doctors is how they act. Are they listening and have the mentality that they're a part of the team. Are they dismissive? If something strikes you as odd or wrong find another doctor. I had one doctor that didn't believe I had schizo affective because I was too together. I eventually ended up going to the hospital. Even when I asked if I didn't have that why an I seeing and hearing things that aren't real. His answer was I don't know. So, look out for the doctor. Be honest. Always be honest. If you can arrange it get an actual treatment team. That means you have your regular doctor working with your psychiatrist and your therapist. That can be hard to find but even if you can just get two of the three that's great. Learn and use coping skills. There's loads online. Those of us who suffer from mental illness take a huge blow to our self esteem. This is where working with a therapist and even attending some kind of group therapy can be a huge help. If you can't do it face to face see what is online. Above all of these things you have to be ready to do the work. I hope this helps ☺️

[@kmrnnj1]

Stay home

[@vblake530530]

As a Primary Care Physician, I really prefer the Spectrum school of thought. As scientists we are trained to count and measure and compartmentalize things in neat little boxes with bows on top . Truth of the matter is most physiologic and pathophysiologic processes that get “labeled “ this or that are Pratt of a spectrum of the same phenomenon . We tend to try to put people in boxes for OUR convenience in talking about people in ways that be dehumanizing.

[@Rabbitorzo]

perhaps *part--

[@jeffkoe310]

I would agree about getting too focused on extremes of Bipolar illness because most people with bipolar disorder live in the middle of the poles, experiencing them simultaneously in a Mixed State or adgitated depression. Clinicians often misdiagnose this or miss it totally.

[@ryannt.2143]

I’ve heard Dr. Phil say the same thing. He doesn’t like “labels.” I’ve been misdiagnosed with bi- polar and I had to do my own research. I have Borderline Personality Disorder. My psychiatrist (30 years experience) said that these two mood disorders have some many overlapping features. That bi-polar can be a “catch all”

[@lmmcdon1]

This is such an incredibly validating and helpful conversation! My psychiatrist has been suggesting bipolar 2 tendencies since 2017, and she has just recently suggested that I may have ‘cycled’ and brought up the topic of mood stabilizers. It’s been is SO tricky to be on the same page with her because there have been a bunch of life transitions from 2017 until now - (a new career path, a move to a new state, new friends, new schedule, etc) In the past I’ve looked up symptoms of BD1 and BD2 and I’ve been wracking my brain over this for years! Was it a life event and my reaction to it depression and anxiety, or was any big transition a result of a manic or hypomanic episode that needs to be controlled? This is the first time when I have received any sort of diagnosis where I couldn’t look up the symptoms, check off the boxes, and say “Yup! This is exactly how I feel!” I also could only relate to pieces of people’s stories about their symptoms that lead to a diagnosis, but nothing has been concrete. I’ve also been talking about it in therapy and received a second opinion. If you asked me this question before, I would have said “ absolutely not! Clear cut answers only” But with psychology being on a spectrum... it makes someone very aware of just how different everyone’s symptoms are, how different everyone is effected by their medication, and how individualized a treatment plan is. This is an all-around great adoption in psychology, and I hope this level of education continues for anyone not belonging to the mental health community.

[@mrg6185]

Victor Blake, can I ask if sometimes doctors hide your diagnosis from you or if they are not just not sure? Because all I get told is that I have a psychotic disorder and anxiety/agitation. But I don't trust them coz I was diagnosed with depression age 17 but long story short I had a messed up childhood and was getting sent jail probation etc. I found out years later my probation officer was liaising with my doctors and that I had been labelled as having ASPD from my behavior in my childhood and early twenty's. Then I was sectioned for the first time when I was 26 and put on Olanazapine. Within a week of discharge I stopped taking it because it was horrible and I was convinced they are trying to kill me (and the side affects back that up we?) But anyway sorry I just mean do they sometimes lie to you about your diagnosis or do they just not know sometimes? Bless up

[@CRStoller]

I was diagnosed with Schizoeffective Disorder at age 16. I am 44 now. It’s been a very difficult journey for me. But I still have some hope that I will one day overcome and conquer my battle and live a healthier and happier life.

[@BridgetSheils]

I've been diagnosed with schizo affective disorder and it sucks.

[@kerizondler9393]

I was first diagnosed bipolar as a teen. Then went to Bipolar with psychotic features and then now into Schizoaffective disorder so much like you Lauren. I personally am FOR specific diagnosis because it’s what got me accurate treatment. And then when I am hospitalized people know how to treat my illness. I think it’s important for us to have distinction between diagnosis.

[@kerizondler9393]

nai nai Bipolar with psychosis does have similarities especially with treatment but they are two different diagnosis and are clearly separated in the DSM manual.

[@fbpliegorrivero8869]

You have a very strong point in this appraisal. Indeed caretakers, patients and family members need a guide to either help oneself or others.

[@blahblahblahblah2837]

This is definitely the value of labels and diagnoses. It's just unfortunate when medical professionals aren't able to make accurate diagnoses and can't determine the best course of treatment for patients. I am sure it is something that will improve with time though.

[@jamiep7860]

Would tend to agree. Still seeking a specific diagnosis for our daughter. Has anyone reading this had a PET CT scan (brain of course) to help with diagnosis? Thank you in advance🙏🏼

[@kyleambroise7593]

What is it like to have this disorder?

[@edenparadise1769]

So this guy that I have been dating for a year (we recently made it official) opened up to me about being schizoaffective and I’ve been watching your videos trying to learn about the disorder. I am trying to get him to the point where he wants help. He is in extreme paranoia and its to the point where he doesn’t believe he needs help and he thinks his delusions are real. I am worried about him and just want him to get the help he needs. Thank you for this video 🖤

[@megabyterose]

I'd recommend trying to find a "friends and family" support group if you haven't already! I am with someone who has a mood disorder and joined a few online group sessions with DBSA (depression and bipolar support alliance) early on in our relationship. It gave me a good foundation and I know if things get challenging, I can join in a session and get practical advice from others. I also got counseling for myself, which helped me get perspective on any disagreements and work on boundaries, grounding techniques, etc.

[@lildebbie997]

You are in a tough place love. There are tools out there to help him but unfortunately I am not versed enough to tell you who or where. Love to your guy, hope he finds help on his life journey.

[@heidiho5179]

I am with someone diagnosed with Schizophrenia and Depression, and have been for almost 9 years. Things have been difficult and have gotten more so. I, in the past, have allowed myself to be isolated because of his suspicion of other people, and anxiety about what he seems to see as interlopers in our relationship. Please do not accept this state of affairs! I have, since, gotten support in chemical dependency recovery groups and friends in school, and it really helps to provide some perspective from objective parties for both people, if he’s open to input and for you, if not. I love someone’s idea of a specific support group for friends and family...I think I will look for that right away. My relationship has been a real roller coaster because he will be extremely close with me and then withdraw, when his perceptions change. I can’t ever take for granted that he will trust me, and he has become less trusting through the years, not more so. This, despite it having been my mission in life to earn his trust by being honest and trustworthy. This is an exercise in frustration and sadness...so I now have other missions, as well (school, cats, friends, family...). At the same time, I have become stronger and more resilient, because I have learned it is not about me when he is experiencing symptoms, so I’ve come a long way at not taking it personally. This actually tends to make the paranoia (regarding me) dissipate, to a degree, because he used to interpret my anxiety as being guilty of the imagined scenarios in his mind. I know this sounds horrible, but it’s really just one aspect of our relationship, which has many positives. He also tells me often that he doesn’t objectively believe I have done, or will do, him harm. They are just perceptions he has sometimes, which, he has an underlying awareness, are not real. He’s not controlling or abusive; he’s scared. The difference is in how he treats me when these things are going on with him. The withdrawal is what’s hard to cope with, when he can’t trust. I DID have a husband of 12 years with Schizoaffective Disorder who was abusive & I should have left much sooner. I now know that going through a lot does not mean you have a right to hurt those around you, nor am I bound to take care of someone. Overall, I’m very happy with my relationship, even though I have had to accept that someday he may not know me (he is not taking prescribed medication). I am in this for as long as he will let me be, and I focus on the joy we have right now. He is brilliant and gentle...just exactly who I want to be with. I wonder what it says about me that all of my long-term relationships in childhood friends had one of the schizo- disorders. I’m diagnosed with Bipolar 1. I wish you so much luck in your relationship and in life. I wish I knew how to get someone to seek help and follow through with it! We’ve been on a roller coaster with his treatment. There’s a lot I had to let go of, but it has enabled me to enjoy their relationship more, although it is hard to accept the no-meds situation. My meds have helped me so much! But he is afraid his will hurt or change him in a negative way. Definitely would be good to seek some support, as it’s hard to not try to control the outcome! Sorry for writing a book...best wishes to you both!

[@Learningandgrowing888]

I have seen my man go through life without medication and with and it is night and day. I supporting him In Going off of his meds and seeing what it was like and it was a nightmare. I told him I can’t go through it again even though I hung in there. I told him I can not be with him if he doesn’t stay on his meds. Take care of yourself! It can be hard and scary as a companion, friend, relative. I think I encourage my companion in a good way to stay on his meds because he knows I won’t put up with him otherwise. I believe in god and in natural ways of healing, however, meds do have their place and can help people with true disorders such as this. God bless you both.

[@MasCoffeeTV]

having schizoaffective disorder myself, i've found that medications and just talking about it actually helped me a lot also journaling helped me vent my fears and concerns.

[@celestialwrath]

You're an angel. I was diagnosed with Schizoaffective Disorder five years ago, and you're freely offering guidance towards understanding of our diagnoses, all of which help us better understand and to convey to others that the stigma associated with our conditions isn't the correct understanding. Thank YOU.

[@marimbafreako]

My husband is in the hospital now and they think he may have schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. I have learned a little bit about these disorders in school, but this video was a great refresher and even taught me a lot of new things! I have been so scared about the future for him and for us, but your video gave me hope. Thank you so much

[@theorycrafters7281]

My wife is schizoaffective. So I'm working on studying as well to better understand and help her live a full happy life

[@cherylmeador6176]

My son was recently diagnosed with schizoaffective bipolar type I it was difficult to find the right medication trial & error but he is doing well on Giodone Rx

[@samanthacollingwood8513]

My best friend has schizoaffective disorder. I have been helping him through episodes for years now. Helping him and learning about his illnesses have made me want to become a nurse to help people with mental illnesses. I’m so glad to have found your channel. I am able to learn more and at the same time learn how this effects other people. I know his symptoms and how to help like the back of my hand. Hearing your stories makes me realize that I am on the right path in what I want to do with my life. Thank you for being so courageous and being so willingly open to talk about your life. Love from one Canadian to another

[@MeganFox-dd3ez]

​@AlexandraDaddario-qo1tpmicrodosing shrooms? Does that work?

[@MeganFox-dd3ez]

​@AlexandraDaddario-qo1tpit's very difficult to source shrooms How do I get some shrooms?

[@MeganFox-dd3ez]

​@AlexandraDaddario-qo1tpthank you so much I'll search for him right away

[@tammydiaz2030]

i want to give you some encouragement. I'm a group therapist and since I use Zoom, I show your videos sometimes to education and promote discussion in my groups. I am so grateful to have someone share so openly about this issue. Thank you!

[@Nicole-xu6oo]

My son was diagnosed with Schizoaffective, the bipolar type. Just seeing you in this space to educate, gives me such high hopes for his journey to be the best him. Thank you for this.

[@JoaoAraujo-ld3zk]

how is he?

[@itsnerdo]

I also think it’s important to identify the different between Bipolar I and Bipolar II. Most people don’t know there are different types. Just like schizoaffective disorder is different than schizophrenia, bipolar II is different from bipolar I. It’s characterized by episodes of hypomania, so less severe mania that can still be very damaging but often is not evident to outsiders that things are wrong. Then, it’s followed by longer periods of depression, which tend to be more severe. It’s often hard to diagnose type II because people usually only seek treatment for the depressive side, so they are put on antidepressants, which make the mania worse. Something interesting to know! Happy to be living with controlled bipolar II finally :)

[@Coldbloodedreptile]

Wait so how do I know which one I have or if I'm schizoaffective does that incorporate into it like so if I'm on the scale is it bipolar 2 on the scale or bipolar 1 or am I not really bipolar at all because its a different thing entirely?

[@isabelgaynor2589]

Thank you for explaining the difference. My friend was diagnosed with Schizoaffective Disorder and depression but I closely observed her for a long time and thought it mimicked bipolar with some variation. You answered that for me now. Unfortunately she takes antidepressants which are negatively affecting her but she prefers only to think of herself as one suffering with depression. Oh well.

[@NO0MMM]

@@ColdbloodedreptileI believe you’re just “schizoaffective” type of bipolar doesn’t really matter since you already have a diagnosis that recognizes the mood element. But I have a hard time believing a person with psychosis would classify for the bipolar 2 as one of the distinctions between bipolar 1 and 2 is that bipolar 2 does not have psychotic elements. Only thing that matters with the bipolar side is the length and severity of mood changes

[@emale03]

Extremely intelligent, articulate, and cute...Kudos to you for everything!

[@RafaDelValle]

You're incredibly brave, smart and strong person. You're supporting so many people's life with your beautiful job =)

[@dancingmandy96]

Hospital social worker here who sees patients with mental health diagnoses every day. Thank you for sharing your story and experiences, your perspective helps me as a provider so much, I can’t even imagine how much they help those also living with schizoaffective and bipolar disorders. You have taught me so much in just this one video!

[@parththummar17]

I lost my father who had severe schizophrenia and psychosis last year… he was on medication for around 10 or so years.. I really have empathy for people who have these sort of mental issues. 🙏🏼

[@serenaburroughs7442]

Having a sister that doesn’t feel entirely right with her paranoid schizophrenia diagnosis… and me having ADHD and hyper focusing on mental disorders and the human brain … I am so beyond thankful for this video that explains it so well and so fast without lacking valuable info. We are pretty certain that this hyper focus of mine is of researching this … is helping her to secure a better diagnosis of having a Shinzo affective disorder. She has never had hallucinations of any kind, not even in her severe psychosis … but she is also not experienced distinct manic episodes. She falls right in the middle you could say. She is finally getting the help she needs. Before she was just treated with meds to manage symptoms, but things weren’t talked about too much. So so glad you make these videos as I find the stigma surrounding this topic is making discoveries about these things very hard. How do you know you need help, how can you identify certain things clearly, if you constantly have self doubt and shame and therefor not the “guts” to reach out for professional help? I feel your channel is a huge help in removing that barrier. Wonderful job.

[@deshoum257]

Thanks to you.. I have been recently diagnosed with bipolar type two months ago.. I have been looking for more information other than books, which are helpful but listening to others like us definitely makes it little easier than just words

[@MyWillyboi]

I was just diagnosed, as ive been in need of diagnosis for years. But who wants to be labeled "crazy", but doctors are the ones who need to see the signs. Thank You, for letting me know, im not alone. Which really counts when you feel alone and like the only one who has this disorder.

[@GabrielofAdonai]

I'm diagnosed with Schizaffective disorder. definitely glad to see more resources about our illness.

[@ArthurTaylor-rq3gi]

I was diagnosed with schizo-effective disorder in 2019. And I think you have a great understanding of our shared chemical imbalance. Great video.

[@krisandkenya948]

I love the spectrum aspect. I have a son on the ASD spectrum. I also have lots of family members on the bipolar-schizophrenia spectrum. We seem to all be effected in similar ways, however i do think the intensity levels are different. I also think our unique personalities and willingness to seek help, places a major role as well. Thank you so much for creating such encouraging and informative videos.

[@elenaspano5067]

I've went through schizoaffective disorder on my abnormal psychology book just this morning! Thanks, Lauren, for your content! Love from Rome.

[@mangalyapanchal1351]

One of my friend told me she have schizoafftive disorders,how should I approach and comfort them,help

[@paulflint6254]

Treat nicely. Be caring. That helps us@@mangalyapanchal1351

[@dominicplank5625]

I was diagnosed with schizoaffective bipolar disorder a few years ago. It’s interesting to hear a similar perspective to what I’ve endured. I have managed it without meds for over a year but I love that ur so informative.so many people lack understanding

[@bilkiss236]

Lauren you are an inspiration. You are so open and honest in discussing your journey. I pray God heal you and bless you.

[@NeganPFVAN]

Your full attention is right at the camera, so no scripts etc. Because this is from ur heart it makes me really appreciate this. I do love psychology to help ppl, but tbh most of my life has been learning with ppl not the books. I find I learn a great deal this way. So I like how you're channel is all natural. I hope your channel takes off really well.

[@calebrosson]

Thank you for creating this video, Lauren. I have actually gone through the same experience and your video helps provide clarity. People normalizing the topic of mental health is so crucial to our furthering awareness and knowledge.

[@lawjoseph2701]

I take care of my sister she has this disorder thank you sweetheart for the upload its a god send to hear you speak about it. God bless you and your family very helpful and infomative

[@gener9410]

Thank you for everything you do and how you educate on this channel. I work with adults with disabilities and work with people that have schizophrenia and are higher on the scale , therefore they cannot live without 247 assistance.

[@b.i.g.j.i.p.s.z.41143]

I am a Schizoaffective Disabled Navy Veteran. You are so inspiring! Mortal Kombat Kano agrees. God blesz u!

[@AS-ly8tr]

You are such a strong and brave person 💪 great work as always thans for sharing your experience with us🙏

[@stop_the_gs_3565]

Yeaa

[@kristipittman8403]

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[@kristipittman8403]

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[@catalinnewport]

NDP China in Focus on September 14th 2020 ran coverage on voice to skull (V2K) mind control technology. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXalfKF8odaSm6M

[@albertarose1433]

The bulk of my knowledge on Schizophrenia bipolar mood or thought disorders are from your channel. I just came across it and you are so easy to understand and explain everything so well to us who don’t understand. So I like the spectrum if only that it moves to the individual’s symptoms. I want to extend a huge thank you for your videos. I was frightened of schizophrenia before your channel and now I am empathetic and supportive. I recently had a client who was schizophrenic and because of you I could work with her and the situation. Thank you soooo much. Many blessings to you and your dedication to your work. ❤️

[@RossIsFine]

I have been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder 7 years ago, at 28 years of age. It's a lot better with my faith in Jesus Christ, and having family I can rely on as my good support

[@jimjones7965]

Your belief in God is one of your delusions mate

[@luckygojordan]

God bless you Dan. Faith, Family, and the help of medicine can go a long way in helping people stay on a firm foundation through out their life.

[@leahprichard4965]

God bless you my faith in Jesus has helped me I am recently diagnosed bipolar and having struggles please pray for me

[@lindamartin6939]

@@jimjones7965 So Wrong you are Sir!

[@lindamartin6939]

@@leahprichard4965 He Can and Will deliver You!! Praying!

[@bertzerker747]

This is an 'amazing' mini-documentary. Congradulations on presenting a very sweet non-intrusive delivery of the subject. It appears to take alot of sting out of contoversial perceptions while placing clear regard on a very delicate yet serious topic.. eager for more please ✌☺️

[@lostlittleme2959]

Thankyou so much on shining a light on this. How you portray szisoeffective disorder is exactly what i experience so thankyou it was much needed for me to hear.

[@fbpliegorrivero8869]

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and feelings. My wife and I, we are dealing with this issue due to our son's mental health issues.

[@hayliehazelberg4793]

I was just diagnosed with this disorder today, I have never heard of this before so I decided to do some research and I came across this channel. I’m going to keep watching because these videos are very informative and helpful.

[@lilmagnoliabeauty4184]

I feel like I am having these symptoms and I am hoping to go to the doctor but I can’t.

[@kmrnnj1]

What are your symptoms? Are you paranoid? Do you think people are spying on you?

[@DK-sg3oe]

Just kick sugar from ur daily life completely

[@emontehayley4771]

Im schizoaffective that's what I was diagnosed with. I take my injection every two weeks. It was hard to deal with but now I have more control. Thanks for posting this video.

[@asapepitadarby734]

Thanks

[@MS-mp9om]

We've been through a lot with my dad in the last few years; an affair with his sons wife, giving away 40k to a sugar baby he never met, relapsing to his addiction, rehab, and eventually he became homeless. My best friend's mom has been a therapist for 30 years and thinks he may he Schizoaffective, so this video is extremely helpful. I wish I could get a diagnosis for him but he's estranged himself from the family. I hope he's okay.

[@lhssnare9934]

what’s his number?

[@soda_fairy]

Ooof bless that sugar baby at least

[@StudyTwenty4Seven]

I'm so sorry to hear that, I will pray for his safety as well 🥰❤

[@davidingemi2174]

Thanks!

[@keanfo]

Lauren I think your degree/masters in Neurological disorders is looming. You are going to pass with distinction. Great video yet again beautiful. X

[@timallen8538]

Amber person with schizoaffective living day-to-day 25 years I've been living with this I'm doing really well myself I appreciate you sharing this video with the world great video you got my support 100%

[@darlingdeedee]

Lauren! I am so grateful for your videos! I posted this one on my fb wall as a way of breaking down stigma. It worked! I have a close family member who has always been reluctant to admit that things have shifted for me and that something beyond bipolar was "up". We talked after she watched your video and she says she can see how my diagnosis of sza makes sense now. It was a really empowering conversation. Thank you so much. I really appreciate your content and the way you help our community!

[@DavidHughes-hv7rl]

Thanks!

[@art.of.verser]

Thank you, Lauren, for this elaboration. I still label my as schizoaffective, which has been the case for me five and a half after getting this diagnosis and being discharged from the psych ward (my first visit, by the way). But your bravery and knowledge make these videos worth watching! Love from Chicago. 💜🦋

[@marlonbravo9466]

Thanks for sharing such information! I received my second opinion today and it was confirmed that I have schizoaffective disorder. I really didn't understand at first so I searched up KZbin for the answer. I am glad I came across your video. It gives me hope that I can live a functional life since you seem to model it quite well.

[@shainassights6237]

Great video!! I do agree that it's a spectrum, however I found it helpful to have a specific diagnosis of schizoaffective depressive type when I first got diagnosed and was looking at resources and figuring out information on symptoms related to my illness. I think if my doctor had said you have mild schizophrenia or severe psychotic depression, or put it in terms of that kind of spectrum, it would have been more frightening and unhelpful for my situation. I really love how you break down the topic and make it easier to understand. It's also clear you've done a lot of research and really care about your audience. I love your videos and cant wait for more. Thank you so much!

[@Primotutor]

You are so well spoken, well informed, sincere and kind. Thank you for what you offer and for being you!!

[@coffeeman8590]

Great work! I love your videos. I've been diagnosed with scitzoaffective disorder too. Thank you for your help!

[@reggyreptinall9598]

I really enjoy your video, I was misdiagnosed schizo effective. I really like the way you have turned your disability into something positive. You are a very strong and intelligent person. Thanks for your efforts.

[@rachellepierce1243]

I have schizoeffective disorder(bipolar 2) , major depressive disorder, ADHD, general anxiety disorder, and borderline personality disorder and it is ABSOLUTE HELL!! I have paranoia, mood swings and violent thoughts. Thank you for this video!!

[@iijojoii]

hope your doing okay

[@Flyfreenow]

Turn to Jesus

[@cherylmeador6176]

Maybe, Giodone Rx would help

[@rachellepierce1243]

@@cherylmeador6176 I'm on loxapine and it works great now

[@socalbarbie1040]

Sounds like you’re just collecting diagnoses.

[@thelgbtcommunity6351]

i super appreciate this video! i have schizoaffective disorder (bipolar 2 type) and it's such an often-ignored disorder that so many people (even medical physicians!) don't know what it is. so, thank you! i know, for me, i do like having a "concrete" diagnosis--but i also believe that there is absolutely a psychotic spectrum! i think that recognizing that while keeping some specifics of how you can experience it differently (via different diagnoses) is important

[@faustapolianskyte3864]

Hey! I am schizoaffective and just been diagnosed like a month ago. I find your videos very helpful so thank you! There's this Facebook group with a lot of people dealing with this and I really think you could help a lot of them. :)

[@NeganPFVAN]

All my life I've helped ppl, not just disabilities etc, anyone that had a prob of any kind. But, I really dig ur channel and if I come across ppl that could use help aside just talking about it. I'll be sure to send them here. I always try to help expand the YT'ers I like, thank you for this channel. It means alot.

[@pennerfisch5774]

Hey, I just wanted to say that what you do is extremely helpful, even if I don’t know anyone who suffer from Schizophrenia or any other mental illness, but I study psychology and your channel is a valuable resource. I could not picture myself in a similar situation and admire your bravery to talk about it so openly. Thank you so much!🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@rory190]

Thank you so much for posting this video. After a 30 year battle with mental health issues, multiple misdiagnoses and a suicide attempt pn the eve of my 40th birthday, I was recently diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. Everything you talk about in this video rang true for me and it helped me better understand this "new reality" I'm now living. May each of us be well, may we be loved, may we be peaceful & fulfilled in our lives, may we be free from suffering, as we all deserve to be happy & well🙏

[@obidavekenobe]

It is important to have an accurate diagnosis so that every medical professional you encounter can be on the same page. If you're not comfortable with one doctor's diagnosis, you have the right to a second opinion. An accurate diagnosis also helps in selecting appropriate medication and treatment plan, interestingly not everyone will respond the same way to a medication. Also, when seeking the most accurate diagnosis and psychiatrists following proper diagnosic procedures, just maybe a lot of the stigma around mental health conditions might be attenuated.

[@bertzerker747]

Definately Obi, Whatever is necessary to maintain and support a healthy relationship with life. Everyone needs good focus and the means to take positive realistic steps about them. I'd need to trust in or recommend a specialist whose ethics are,,, Less suffering and more recovery... for anyone in need or trouble. Interesting to note how people experiencing some of these conditions might lose motivation with the things they enjoy and are good for them. How much of that could be regarded as a disease? Sounds like a disturbance or something that can transcend into depression and needs the right levels of concern sooner than later 🙏 nothing to let the senses of the mind numb over. Shame some onsets can be spontaneous. Some patients get mindwashed into believing something they can't effectively explain for themselves...

[@otispage5746]

My wife has all the things she described but it’s too late for her. This info was not around when she could have been helped, and you description helps me better understand this issue. Thank you

[@sivialyssaruder]

Thank you! I’m studying for an exam for clinical psychologist licensure, the EPPP. This video is so helpful. You’re very clear and engaging.

[@billc3114]

I watch a lot of mental health channels, yours is one of my favorites. I really like your talks, you are interested in this, have your own issues and experience, and talk like you mean it. I hope you reach as many as possible. Keep up the good work! :)

[@rachaelblack6929]

Just found your channel and it’s great! I’m bipolar with psychotic features and I’ve been pushing for this spectrum approach for years as my own experience is a very nuanced mixture of symptoms which fit a spectrum rather than one fixed set of symptoms at any given time. My psychoses are at times extreme and don’t fit a traditional bipolar model of psychotic experience, they’re more like that of a schizophrenic but because I have concurrent mood disorder whilst they’re occurring, I’m not schizophrenic or schizoaffective. It’s a fucking nightmare! I do have periods of stability either medicated or non medicated and I’m currently enjoying one which has lasted three or four months now. I have a great psychiatrist, family, friends, and therapeutic support but it’s still a hard slog through life and I make a lot of mistakes all of the time. Thanks for making these videos. It’s really helpful. Keep on keeping on! X

[@goblin_liz2650]

My partner was just diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder and this video was super helpful to watch and we start this journey together. They feel very afraid right now and I have faith that your channel will help them feel less alone in their struggles. Thank you 💚

[@qjiffy]

I like the chalkboard type writing animation overlays. Exemplary presentation.

[@Kashif259]

You are a brave and strong person who is not shy of sharing experiences. Thank you so much for your explanation. I think it is super helpful for students like myself trying to learn about these disorders! Kudos to you! you are a great at explaining things too!

[@ana_lynn_w2959]

What about borderline personality with psychotic features? This was really well explained! Thank you!

[@nobreakingthepickle3452]

I believe psychotic disorders are cognitive illness where as Borderline Personality Disorder is a behavioral disorder. BPD would be treated with behavioral therapy like DBT, and the psychotic symptoms with anitpsychotics. Essentially treating two different things with two different treatments. Though you would likely learn coping strategies for psychotic symptoms in therapy as well. Idk though, I didn't go to school for it or anything. Just guessing from my own experiences in various mental health treatments

[@Makeup_and_Me]

I too have BPD and schizoaffective disorder. I don't qualify for bipolar or schizophrenia. Remember we are still learning the brain

[@Makeup_and_Me]

@@nobreakingthepickle3452 your thinking seems sound from a psychology perspective

[@Tacticalteabag]

​​@@nobreakingthepickle3452 while true, specifically in females with BPD once modification happens many tend to enter a schizoid secondary psychotic phase for a while. I like the spectrum ideology. A lot of the cluster b's have kind of flows in and out of each other anyway

[@AT-fi9dj]

Thank you so much for guiding this community. I really hope you can find some relief even if it’s small

[@kjeracarroll450]

This runs in my family. We are watching my teen son and his symptoms. So far he has been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder, but his therapists (has Autism too) are thinking there is more to it. Thank you for making these videos!

[@nihil8436]

Best not to get a schizophrenia diagnosis, antipsychotics will destroy his life, they cause lower functioning, worse longterm outcomes, dampen emotions, cognition and diminish interest in life, interests and family and even lead to suicide.

[@jenniferwhite9133]

Hello 👋 your a strong person and that is amazing I like your videos and they are helpful even to the ones who don't have schizophrenia and bipolar disorder

[@amberrichards2778]

I apparently hallucinate way too much for just Bi-polar. Some of my "high functioning autism" symptoms are possibly from some sort of schizophrenia related something. Finding the right meds... what a nightmare.

[@Jenny-tm3cm]

Yeah the whole autism vs schizophrenia thing has literally ruined my life. Yay for going my whole life untreated and not being able to function

[@kmrnnj1]

Stay home always

[@sunshineee910]

@@kmrnnj1 why??

[@ssp1070]

I take the Invega shot once a month. It helped me. I still have motivation issues but no hallucinations or delusions.

[@sunshineee910]

@@ssp1070 I just got the ability shot

[@jimdandy8685]

Your are so amazing. Wow i have learned more in this video that I have with my doctors over the course of 15 years.

[@KWatsonMUSIC]

Thank you so much for this video. My mom was unmedicated for schizo affective disorder for many years when I was younger...was pretty traumatic for me. In retrospect, she definitely had psychosis, too. She was completely out of touch with reality and though that nothing was wrong with her!

[@casperr1299]

My mom did too and it was rough, she tried abandoning me in a bus and punched me once as a toddler in the stomach. I’m actually quite surprised she could go several years unmedicated honestly. If my mom missed her meds a few days, it wouldn’t take long before she was so out of control someone always ended up calling the police on her, she’d start yelling to the air and threatening to kill everyone and thought imaginary people were messing with her she’d argue. Therapy is good to let things out and I also hear there are groups for people, to make you feel less alone about overcoming that in childhood

[@lindadickey5164]

This is the first time I have watched your videos. Your explanation of the 3 illnesses is spot on and very helpful to me as a mother of a son who has gone through all of these diagnoses. Bless you and continue doing you!

[@superdooper1830]

I think more accurate diagnosis is important. I’m only just learning that ‘schizophrenia with bipolar’ is actually schizoaffective disorder and it makes a big difference to understanding

[@vikenmanguikian3181]

you are very well spoken and an excellent conveyer of this condition among the community, your efforts are well received, thank you.

[@lostwithoutyou459]

As someone who waited a long time to be diagnosed and found a lot of peace in finally having a diagnosis I tend to be more of the mindset of wanting a specific diagnosis rather than along a spectrum.

[@mosheprice6246]

Excellent. Thank you. I believe this presentation helps remove the stigma of mental illness and highlights one of the many varieties of the human condition (difficult as it is)..

[@fatenfarouk1205]

Please make an apesoid about paranoid schizophrenia

[@fatenfarouk1205]

Thanks very much for this video

[@ViriditasCollective]

That’s what most of her videos are already about

[@grazynareginia342]

@@ViriditasCollective Paranoid schisophrenia is hell , when she diagnosed with schisophrenia not paranoid schisopchrenia so she dont have idea .

[@owieri]

@Mia Smith apesoid disorder

[@rhubiks8430]

@@grazynareginia342 paranoid schizophrenia to my understanding is just an older term, today we would just call it schizophrenia

[@SethWestmore]

Thank you, great information, going through the same issues right now. It is very much a spectrum.

[@topickawallflower4730]

You should do a video where you talk about having kids while being schizophrenic. Talk about the judgement from other people on your fitness as a parent, talk about pregnancy and changing medications, talk about having a psychotic episode or mania while being a parent. It would be a very interesting video!

[@BeingBetter]

I'm bipolar 1 and I've had psychosis. I've parented and homeschooled my children while manic.

[@aaymathebest4705]

@@BeingBetter whao...you gave us courage and thanks for your replying...

[@BeingBetter]

@@aaymathebest4705 Thanks. Absolutely no problem. I'd be happy to answer any questions. It's important to avoid showing excessive anger to young children when parenting. I've had to go into a separate room and punch the air, or even scream. I've never abused my kids. It can be done. A strong support system is a must.

[@darlenemestas8347]

I know a few people with this condition so Ive been watching yojr videos to understand it better. I am so impressed how well you are doing. I can only pray for that for the ones i know. Its so heartbreaking to me to see them suffering.

[@steavielind7517]

I'm on the fence with this one. I find comfort in having a diagnosis because then I can research it. However, my psychiatrist uses the continuum and says that diagnosis does not help because it can fluctuate and change so treatment is more important

[@yoanapalatianosdea.5957]

I'm a doctor studying for the boards and this video helped me a lot! Congratulations on being so self-conscious. Thank you.

[@angelicalloyd4879]

Yes lauren thank you i habe scoophernia depression anxityand insomnia thank you for your kind words and you give me hope i want to buy your merch a mug and tshirt

[@DialogDontArgue]

Thank you for making these videos, they help those with illness and those who love them

[@ash20453]

Your channel is really great. I’m always surprised when I see it’s still around 40 thousands subs. I like the quality and editing that you guys do, the topics, as well as like the delivery too it’s all really well done. Even tho I don’t have schizophrenia or schizoaffective I have other mental health problems and it’s interesting to see the story telling or the information for someone that might be like me in some sort of way however small

[@bonstar50sLife]

I have a friend dealing with psychosis and schizophrenia and she hasn’t accepted that she has a mental illness and therefore is not pursuing help. It’s so scary and frustrating. I’m currently watching a bunch of videos so I can learn more and this video is so super helpful. Thank you.

[@19MadMatt72]

I was just diagnosed schizoaffective after originally diagnosed ptsd/MDD, then bipolar. Your story hits home. I start 45 day residential treatment Tuesday. I’m a mess currently.

[@user-xg9tv4vu3k]

I hope your treatment goes well. It might be hard but you can push through. ❣️

[@williamblance4587]

How did it go?

[@19MadMatt72]

@@williamblance4587 It took about 3 years of misdiagnosis to find out I’m on the autism spectrum. Which would also explain why the medications did not work like they should have. Depakote, for instance, rather than helping so much with bipolar. Instead, it all but eliminated a neurological head tick I had since birth. Puzzled the shrinks at the time, but makes more sense now. Psychologists can analyze you through the viewpoints of others before you. Never you. They can only analyze bits and pieces of you and your past. Most any patient who is involuntarily questioned, which is very often the case. Will be suspicious and paranoid at least. Making proper analysis difficult, impossible, or worse, incorrect. Mental health is a journey that only ends when you do.

[@bhb12682]

Well spoken and clearly explained. Thank you for sharing. To answer the last question i'd rather not be labelled and treated for symptoms but I realize the need for proper assessment. I also enjoy being recognized as a capable and compassionate human. It was very encouraging to listen to you speak with first-hand insight. Wishing you much success in life.

[@codyrgilbert]

Hey I was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder 3 years ago how do I manage it and it not get worse as I age it takes courage to do what you did making a KZbin video stating you have this condition

[@jeffcarr2095]

As a mental health counselor, I may be biased but a counselor that you trust that has experience with these disorders can be quite helpful.

[@kyleegullikson2050]

i would prefer to have a specific diagnosis. very helpful, and informative, thank you

[@paulakempe3670]

I like having a name (diagnosis) for what's going on with me. Without that, there is nothing to treat, hence, no hope. Also, having a diagnosis helps me to accept that this is how I'm different from other people, and just, this is me. Sometimes it brings humor into my life when I find that what I've been thinking is not a reasonable reality. But sometimes it seems like it IS VERY real even though it may not make sense to other people.

[@Stop_Elitists_Wars]

Dude your profile pic is scary

[@michelemurphy3541]

You are a wonderful source of help and understanding that can positively affect many, thank you.

[@timothyjacobs8025]

I just got out of the hospital. I went off of my medications and ended up in the hospital. Its becoming clear that I have a problem. That was the third time I was hospitalized. Its very hard to accept this. Because I am also on Disability SSI and I don't like how society says that I am lazy and cant have a proper relationship and other discriminatory things that they say. Its hard to accept that. Because I tend to fight things the entire way. Its hard. I don't know what to do. When I was young. I didn't realize that my life would be like this. Its very hard. I honestly cant live like this. Its the way God made me. I don't think I can change.

[@akg1301]

Hi there

[@timothyjacobs8025]

@@akg1301 Hi

[@akg1301]

@@timothyjacobs8025 how are you feeling now:)

[@timothyjacobs8025]

@@akg1301 A lot better because of the medications. How are you feeling?

[@akg1301]

@@timothyjacobs8025 good,btw I urge you to read this book named"breaking the habit of being yourself" by Joe Dispenza.I'm sure it can cure you follow the instructions in the book :)

[@Tbear995]

Your videos give me so much comfort in handling my delusions and mental health and just wanted to say thank you for all that you do 🙏😊