Why I Quit Drugs and Alcohol

Giving up drugs and alcohol was one of the metabolic therapies we committed to at the start of this project. In this video, I share how that has been going and what I've learned so far.
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You can also learn more about metabolic health and mental illness from the book 'Brain Energy' by Dr. Christopher Palmer - brainenergy.com/
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#schizophrenia #schizoaffective #schizoaffectivedisorder #mentalhealth #mentalillness #metabolichealth #keto #metabolichealth #drug #alcohol

[@LivingWellAfterSchizophrenia]

JOIN OUR ONLINE PEER SUPPORT COMMUNITY Schizophrenia Peer Support Community: www.schizophreniapeersupport.com

[@DoreenBellDotan]

Personally, I'm of the mind that one's mind has to come under their own control and that turning to substances to alter our consciousness in any way impedes the accomplishment of being in control of one's own mind and emotions.

[@monkeylove2620]

@@DoreenBellDotan yep

[@GhostKnightNo1]

I'm.......a little bit surprised....ok I'm a lot surprised. You don't strike me as the type who'd dabble in mind altering drugs......you seem so sensible and well adjusted. I'll watch the vid on that now but....did they in some way counteract your illness and therefore actually prove to be a surprisingly positive experience?

[@michaelmandeville5961]

Excellent choice! Today marks a full 9 years sober for me and I have no plans of going back. ...I may be responsible for the seltzer shortage, however. Apologies.

[@susanmehalick4664]

😂😂😂

[@leeartlee915]

It’s not a popular opinion but alcohol might be the most dangerous substance on the planet.

[@fezanshaq5291]

Used cannabis for 3 months and it triggered my descent in to schizophrenia at 17 years of age. I live in the UK and am very surprised cannabis is legal in north America. Such a dangerous drug for the few people at risk of psychosis. Now at 35 I'm still suffering from just 3 months of cannabis use in my teen years.

[@tendiesoffmyplate9085]

You're lying. And if you're not that would be like banning insulin because it kills some people. It's stupid to think you know everything.

[@ashatan4554]

I live in Canada where it has been legalized. It’s been a nightmare for us as a parent of an adult with Bipolar/psychotic features. It has completely justified to our daughter that marijuana is okay. Her mental health has declined so badly with a pot shop on every corner. She has had several psychotic episodes requiring hospitalization and all they can do is recommend she not use it. She also demonizes us now for not allowing her to use it at home in her teens.

[@fezanshaq5291]

@@ashatan4554 I feel your pain, it would be a my worst nightmare for a child to go through what I have. I have a close relative who is in a high secure hospital due to drug use (mainly cannabis and amphetamine) he has bipolar as well as lots of other diagnosis. A lot of people's arguments cannabis is natural and a plant, so is heroin. Have you tried any charity groups that deal with psychosis. Your daughter might be able to understand that cannabis is not okay for her bipolar, that helped me when I was a teen. Talking to others going through the same situation can have a positive impact. In the UK they have a charity called MIND, they have a app for social support. Probably have one in Canada, might be worth a look. I pray that your daughter gets better 🙏

[@marceloz7894]

I know the feeling. Almost the same story

[@fezanshaq5291]

@@marceloz7894 so sorry to hear you had to go through this, wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy

[@annalee274]

I have schizoaffective disorder and thank you so much for making a video on this topic. I thought I was alone in my reasoning to cut drugs and alcohol out of my life. I'm not quite there with cutting out caffeine yet but I'm slowly moderating my use!

[@1.6Kilometres]

The open dialogue is demystifying schizophrenia - I have learned more this past year by hearing these sorts of stories. Yup - be mindful about habits - the substance might not be needed where the ritual becomes a grounding exercise. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@thekeymaker6692]

I was 18 when I was diagnosed schizophrenic now i am 30 as a functioning schizophrenic and i never drank or did drugs mostly do to christian up bringing even now as an agonistic i don't do drugs or drink I have enough mental problems as there is. I have also both adhd and autism.

[@Inner_stillness]

Good decision. It’s so much healthier in every way to stop drinking and you’re so right that any amount is not good. I’m 3 years no alcohol in March and I’ll never go back. People will understand and who knows by you quitting may help someone else do the same. Theres so much pressure these days to drink and the more people who say no will help change society’s attitude. As time goes on you won’t even think about it. Awesome:)

[@amberweiss3815]

Thanks for sharing. I too enjoyed wine while cooking. I decided in November to quit and I feel so much better. Lots of people are definitely sober curious. I hope more people learn about Grey Area Drinking - not a social drinker but no an alcoholic. It's okay to quit. You don't have to be an alcoholic to give up alcohol.

[@carly6107]

I am a moderate/light drinker, 0-3 drinks a week, never felt a desire to drink more than that-and therefore hadn’t really considered that it may be harming my mental health, until a few months ago. My partner and I, both with non-psychotic mental health issues, went out to brunch with his family and each had a mimosa. We had been feeling good earlier in the day, but a few hours after brunch, we both started crashed and began feeling significantly anxious and depressed without a clear cause. It didn’t occur to me until I called my mom the next day that it was likely a result of the alcohol-we’re usually just asleep several hours after having a drink. I’m not planning on completely quitting alcohol any time soon, but definitely increasing my awareness and choosing not to drink when my mental health is at or below my baseline. Substance use disorder is one way that drugs can have an impact on mental health, but it’s not the only way.

[@derekpmoore]

Yes drinking causes negative empathy towards close relations and positive empathy for strangers.

[@Silentkat1975]

I fricken love your energy online. Thank you for this informative video once again ❤

[@theplaintruth4794]

Please hear me, and read my comment. As another schizoaffective sufferer who lost her husband and lost custody of my child. I am alone because I experimented and even modified my own meds. I tried marijuana because a friend said it would help. It ruined my life. You are lucky to still have a man to look after you. I blew it with mine, I can't get him back. Do what the Dr. Says and nothing else should guide you. We don't have good judgment, that's why it's called a "disorder" I can't take it back no matter how hard I try. Don't take risks.

[@lookupyourredemptiondrawsn7285]

Can u tell me how pot ruined your life? Did it read to harder drugs?

[@77777sadie]

I am touched you were brave and cared enough to share your story, in order to help someone elese. You are a courageous person. Blessings and hugs ❤

[@77777sadie]

​@@lookupyourredemptiondrawsn7285I hope you don't mind me replying to your comment. Many years ago I starting smoking pot and it did lead to stronger drugs. Thank God I quit after using about three years. But...the drugs altered my brain chemistry and caused me a lot of grief for several years. Drugs have a long lasting affect. One bad trip can blow your mind forever. People with a mental illness should never use illegal drugs.

[@elbertakibler]

Did you suffer from CIP from the THC? (Cannabis Induced Psychosis)

[@MariahIsSkinnyFuckBlueLives]

I hope you're able to reach a point where you're able to trust your own judgment~

[@rachelgiersch4445]

Lauren, your choices are inspiring, especially given how socially acceptable alcohol is and yet how detrimental it can be. My partner works in the ER and over 80% of cases are alcohol related. I have very bad anxiety, and I don’t drink brewed coffee. I do a teaspoon of instant coffee in a cup once a day and that doesn’t spur my anxiety or hurt my sleep. Maybe you could try instant coffee and see how it impacts your sleep before giving up caffeine entirely? Anyways, wish you well on this journey ❤

[@K-D76]

So is there a difference between brewed coffee and instant coffee? Whenever I drink brewed coffee (which is very rarely) no matter how much (not from Starbucks) I can actually fall asleep. Is that weird?? Whereas if I drink the fountain green tea from qtrip I won't fall asleep and actually have problems falling asleep. Then I get horrific migraines the next day.

[@K-D76]

I also have depression and anxiety. Finally, I'm responding to Lexapro.

[@samanthabv]

Thank you so much sharing. I’m having a harder time stopping edibles as they do seem to help my symptoms but I overeat and I do feel those thoughts coming back. It’s really hard

[@damianrichardson8536]

Hi! I was hospitalized a month ago for an attempt. And they diagnosed me with mdd with psychotic features. I had no idea what this meant so I turned to KZbin and I already liked your videos and when I seen your video on my diagnosis I realized I might be diagnosed. Then I seen your schizoaffective disorder video and that feels like the most real that I've felt. The voices and delusions mostly never go away ever since I was 17 his name is apostle. He can be helpful sometimes but mostly tries to hurt me. Rn hes scolding me for typing this lol. I'm 20 now and I'm finally starting to get the help I need. I hope I can go into recovery and live a fulfilling life like you did. Your videos help me so much in understanding things and educating people in the disorder. Keep up the great videos and thank you.

[@Damnchaosemerald_e.e]

You're transition into a more stable and controlled life style is beautiful

[@endlessnameless6494]

10 years sober, good work. And please, guys, if you DO still drink- never drink and drive. I was almost killed riding home with a girl I met at a bar. Please be safe. Taxi, Uber, walk...or just drink at home.

[@lisaunearths]

I swapped my glass of wine for kava for my chronic night anxiety. Worked very well for me

[@staceyjohnson2929]

As a medical professional, it is concerning to me that society's attitude toward drugs and alcohol has become so lax. The consequences are real.

[@mwesley94]

It's highly upsetting. I found out my narcissistic finance is smoking marihuana after being with him for several years. It gave me such a traumatic experience. When he got caught and went to jail, I got traumatised, psychotic and ended up in an asylum. It's awful how "popular" drugs are promoted to be.

[@Rheingold-l2z]

With Everything taken into the body, there are consequences. Certainly the two mentioned. But also dietary is ignored by more. And the”consequence” of life is death.

[@dagrun3821]

What the f*** is a medical professional?

[@absoluteunit8628]

​@@mwesley94 Lol I think most of that was on you, not because your boyfriend was smoking pot

[@staceyjohnson2929]

@@dagrun3821 I’m a nurse in the US. But since many in here are outside of the US, I just stick to the overall general term. Thanks for asking.

[@PassivUser]

I very much appreciate this message. 👍

[@GeekStinkBreath17890]

I'm glad you mentioned caffeine. For a lot of people, with both alcohol and caffeine (and then to a smaller percentage of people, other drugs), people around them will act like they're weak/cowards if they say they don't want it or want to stop using it. This especially applies to men. Then with caffeine and wine in particular, there are t-shirts and wall decorations like "don't talk to me before I've had my coffee" or "wine mom." It's easy to feel like because nearly every adult regularly if not daily has at least one cup of coffee that it couldn't be negatively affecting you that much, but even for the average person without mental illnesses, it can cause more of your energy to be used up in the morning and then the afternoon crash. To have your natural levels of energy altered like that every day could really impact someone. It also acts like a laxative and can hinder the absorption of vitamins like iron. I have an extreme sensitivity to it where even one cup of decaf coffee or tea, or a small piece of dark or good-quality milk chocolate affect me all day (and it's definitely not a placebo effect. It seems to be genetic.) I have depression and anxiety disorders so it does temporarily act like an antidepressant and can let me get things done I otherwise wouldn't, but causes mood swings, racing thoughts, impulsivity, and increased anxiety. The next day I have a hangover where my anxiety and depression are worse, especially OCD and intrusive thoughts. I also have IBS and caffeine makes that worse. I do enjoy the taste of coffee, tea, and chocolate, so I still have them at times, but I have to plan when to have it because it lasts all day. I wish there was a way to get all of the caffeine out of these foods.

[@K-D76]

I have similar issues with chocolate can you point me in the direction of why it could be genetic cuz my mom is the same way. I can drink coffee and go to sleep but the fountain green tea from qtrip keeps me up but the next day I get migraines. I can rarely eat chocolate anymore because I will end up with increased bladder spasms & horrific kidney infections were I'm peeing blood. It took me years to figure it out. Only limited amounts of dark chocolate doesn't affect my kidneys it's so weird. I haven't drank alcohol for over 6 years and never liked soda so that has never been an issue. I only drink water which I hate. I sure miss the taste of chocolate but not the kidney infections.

[@K-D76]

I forgot to mention I have anxiety and depression too. Finally, responding to Lexapro. I was on Cymbalta but started having horrible brain zaps (after being on it for years), had weight gain and hot flashes. It was horrible.

[@GeekStinkBreath17890]

@@K-D76 I don't know why or what gene is affected that makes it genetic, only that one side of my family is unusually sensitive, so I know it is. I've never heard of chocolate affecting kidneys, bit I'm lucky to have not had any problems with mine. I would think any caffeine would cause an increased risk of muscle spasms of all kinds. That sounds awful and I'm so sorry you suffered through that. Maybe you can try flavoring the water with crushed up frozen fruit/cucumber/mint, herbal teas or tisanes which have absolutely no caffeine (except there's one called yaupon which has caffeine but I guess would be considered herbal so I would stay away), or lemonade mix, but I don't know what's okay for your kidneys. Also maybe this sounds weird but maybe you could like drink a soup or broth throughout the day? Though all canned soups, even the reduced sodium have a lot of salt so that may not be good for you. They make me bloated.

[@GeekStinkBreath17890]

@@K-D76 I'm glad something's working. That's awful, I only heard of brain zaps when coming off medication.

[@infinitecurlie]

One time I took too much acid and I had dr*g induced psychosis. It was an experience I'd rather not repeat, I havent touched dr*gs ever since then and I stopped drinking after getting into a better mental place.

[@meFatuations]

16 years no alcohol. Never had an addiction problem, just a life choice. When I drank, it was impossible to do anything meaningful. All those years being under the influence of alcohol was a waste of precious time. I missed it for the first year, and gradually that went away. Today, zero desire to drink.

[@laurelpowell8536]

I have smoked Marijuana since i turned 18 and i have mixed feelings about it. I have bipolar 1 as well as panic disorder, but i also am waiting for an evaluation for autism and adhd. The symptoms i believe are possibly autism and/or adhd are actually what leads me to smoke Marijuana more so than the bipolar and anxiety alone. My mental illnesses have had me wanting to end my life consistantly for at least 20 years now and no treatment i have gotten has changed how i feel about that. I find that Marijuana helps me to not feel so desperate about wanting to end my life, it helps me to let go and focus on other things. I know it is not recommended by doctors to use but i just don't know how to deal with desperately wanting to die because of how many mental health symptoms i have that i don't know how to deal with. Meds don't really work well to control my bipolar and anxiety and the other mental health symptoms that i believe could be autism and/or adhd just make living in this world seem impossible and so unbearably uncomfortable. If it were up to me alone i would be dead a long time ago and for now i feel like if Marijuana helps me not make another attempt to end my life then perhaps it isn't such a bad thing. Honestly i think it should be my choice to die, but the world sees that differently so i guess i will just smoke my Marijuana and not die.

[@Catlady1210]

I agree with your statement. I am in the same boat. I have adult adhd and am now being sent for autism evaluation. I was just diagnosed with cptsd from the abuse of my ex-husband. I was inpatient during the pandemic and my divorce for trying to unalive. I was drinking every day, vodka. I was also on ativan and tramadol for anxiety and fibromyalgia/hashimotos/ lupus pain. I am super depressed and anxiety ridden 24/7. Working a job seems impossible, and now I am struggling with my memory. How am I supposed to live in this world without money. I've been homeless. It is scaring me. I was using thc daily after my alcohol/benzo/opiate detox to help my anxiety. Unfortunately, in the state I live in, it's near impossible to get jobs if you vape or take thc drops or even use rubs for pain. It's ridiculous. I am pro assisted suicide though I am a believer, so it truly upsets those around me who think I am thinking selfishly. Well ,they do not have to wake up in my head or my body daily, so... whatever . Your post is so comforting and thank you for sharing .❤😊

[@lynnmarieanderson1744]

You of course can think what you want to but I’m getting really tired of small amounts of pot being legal along with CBD oil. Many years ago I thought there might be a possibility that marijuana could help people medically and I just don’t believe that anymore. I know a girl who gets seizures where her Mom thought maybe CBD oil would be helpful and now she doesn’t use that anymore.

[@sharon5628]

It’s really interesting how different (and better) I feel after cutting out alcohol. I was a very light drinker but I like NOT drinking so much more. I never knew alcohol had such a noticeable affect.

[@nuiwai5402]

❤not drinking or drugs now❤ having a glass of wine once a month if that... there's so many other awesome things to do with your mind.... hangovers are horrible waste of time... i had 20 years of partying drinking... i love being drug alcohol free and ❤ life. Thank you Lauren❤

[@LyLy-ct9ib]

I also feel amazing with no substances! A word of encouragement regarding caffeine; I had to give it up because of Crohn’s- and I thought, as an absolute coffee lover, that life would be terrible. Once you get used to the taste of decaf, and get over the hump of caffeine withdrawals, you will be amazed at how you’ll realize that you absolutely don’t need caffeine. I still adore my decaf ritual every day, and as a coffee lover, now there’s nothing stopping me from having 3 or even 4 a day now! And I absolutely can’t imagine needing to improve my energy with caffeine! When it’s off the table, your body & mind figure out how to start the day using just your body’s own resources. I can’t believe I ever felt like I needed it. I’ve been off of caffeine for 25 years now and I would never want to start up a dependency again. Not only is it absolutely easy to live without it, but I find it easier, in fact, to be “low maintenance”. You can do it! You will experience the same level of positive changes that you did from going keto and also from abstaining from alcohol & drugs. The benefits will be just as great! 🇨🇦

[@carriemiles937]

If you have a mental disorder where you have hallucinations, WHY would you take any chance w recreational drugs and/or alcohol?! That’s really scary to me & all I have is MDD, no psychosis.

[@unraveledultimatefate]

I'm glad to share you with my 'why' as well to quitting the same stuff as you.

[@maggiej6717]

I have Bipolar Disorder, and was addicted to “low alcohol” flavored drinks, and food had always been a addiction. Having stopped alcohol use (123 days sober), and it has given me more control over my food addiction. Definitely my sleep is better.

[@meganjoelyn2207]

Congrats on the 123!

[@StariaLunar]

Congrats on the 123 days sober. That’s huge, and you’re so strong for it!

[@77777sadie]

Good for you!!!! Congratulations!

[@jenniferhowell8905]

Lauren, you r so awesome and helpful ❤

[@albacan]

I smoked cannabis once and didn't like it. I smoked tobacco and drank a lot of alcohol but discovered the natural highs and lows of life are much more interesting than substance altering states of mind. I watch your videos and think you're great.

[@sheryl7638]

We are so very proud of you!! And so very thankful for you!! Thank you God for Lauren!❤🙏 God bless you Abundantly In Jesus Name Amen❤🙏

[@annegabels6680]

that is great news!! think you are heading down the right path!!

[@madalinad.2484]

I dont know whats happening on planet america if ppl that have schizophrenia have even the thought of doing drugs,its unvelievable.

[@kencoogan1676]

hi like your videos admire your courage to speak about mental illness.

[@blase7733]

I gave up all substances over a year ago and feel way better now.

[@jasonshriver1587]

Some of these comments baffle me. Some folks are drawing the conclusion that she is nearly an alcoholic and frequent recreational drug user. I don't think that is what she said in this or other videos. As far as weight - it is hard to tell how thin someone is in a video like this. I don't think she or her husband were overweight at all before this iteration of keto. She has stated several times that she is a runner, and an extremely active person. She also has multiple children in the house - so I think it is safe to say she is busy. Keto from what I understand helps use up extra stores of subcutaneous fat, and with her high levels of activity, she is going to look thinner. I think she has added some muscle as well. Maybe people are so accustomed to seeing heaver people all the time. They both look like healthy, active people to me.

[@sipzc-dj]

When i drink and do coke, i turn schizophrenic & have blackouts. I turn spiritual & then dark & start arguements on social media. Thankyou for this video, im trying not to do things as im learning more

[@BreeziDeezi]

Many blessings to you

[@Xaxtarr_Neonraven]

Been there, done that. Psychopharmaceuticals without educated expert opinion, this even includes supplements, is always risky. We know what we need, it'd be nice if doctors would work with us rather than working disinterestedly" removed on us " In this regard, the war on drugs really increased the dangers of criminal street drugs. People want to feel good, and puritanical advocacy of suffering and work isn't always the answer. Nevertheless, It is always better to take care of yourself than to abuse substance. Always! Peace.

[@crumbtember]

i had very abusive and neglectful caregivers in my youth, so I had access to alcohol from a young age. was drinking fairly heavily starting at 15 or so. i didn't really smoke weed as a kid, once or twice from peer pressure. but i eventually picked it up around 20 or so. i'm 27 now, and i feel like my mind is broken. i don't have hallucinations, but i feel like i can't make coherent thoughts. i might have some kind of delusions, it's hard to tell if i really lack the ability to be coherent, to have healthy relationships, to hold down a job, to get a better job and complete education, etc., or if those are just beliefs/delusions/things i am somehow convinced of which are nonetheless, untrue. but i wonder if i would be in the position i am in now if i hadn't drank so much as a teen and if i had never smoked weed. when i first smoked weed, i barely noticed it. same with acid, which i have only done a few times. but anyways, after the first year or so of smoking fairly heavily, it came to induce pretty much instant anxiety, but that didn't stop me from smoking heavily for the next 6 or so years. and i would smoke and drink at the same time, which lead to so many wasted hours, from either being too drunk, too hungover, or too anxious, to do the things that would help my life more in the long-term. anyways, I've dropped weed after a semi recent super messed up panic attack, but am still struggling to ditch alcohol.

[@malindavenegas7752]

Love the info and your looking really great

[@Smag-wm4bx]

LOVE THE SHIRT!!!

[@meganjoelyn2207]

I'm so glad you are feeling happy and clear. The first video of your's I saw was when you were in the hospital. I was in awe of how open you are. Now I watch because I am learning things...and you and your family are funny. Keep up the great work.

[@codrutaoprean3979]

I am having a hard time with cigarettes as a comfort drug to help me with stress, and socially even harder. I manage well though with not drinking alcohol or drugs.

[@RavenRose88]

I am an alcoholic, but I've been sober for 5 years on August 2nd.

[@caroliinalopes]

Super proud of you!

[@saegemehlfee]

♥️

[@77777sadie]

You are amazing!!!!

[@alanspring8462]

❤ Happy to subscribe love peace and joy to you.

[@pumpthebrakes]

When you have schizoaffective and trying to manage mental health - there is no benefit consuming alcohol and especially drugs

[@2woundedcats]

I have borderline personality disorder and I've been drinking to cope with my life since I was in early elementary school and started drinking bottles of distilled liquor by the time I was 13 and I still drink regularly today to turn my brain off whenever I'm in crisis, which is almost every day. I wish I wasn't so dependent and every single person I know is either an alcoholic or stoner and we all just enable each other constantly. I'm worried about the consequences for myself and others but it's hard for anyone to get sober if their environment is constantly normalizing and encouraging this. It's hard to know where to start. I'm 18 so everyone around me for years have been talking about how getting high and wasted every day is cool because we're young. I hate it, makes me miserable. When I'm sober, I don't feel cool enough but when I'm wasted I feel awful physically and making my mental and physical health worse.

[@amelbenaliamer2092]

I am sorry for your struggle I hope life gets easier for you.

[@shastaacker6060]

have you tried AA?

[@maggiej6717]

Confide in someone you can trust, and be accountable to them. If you don’t have anyone, go to AA. I am Catholic so I confessed mine to the priest. I gained my strength from that day. Prayers for you. ♥️🙏🏻♥️

[@olivialisnichy7928]

Bro since early elementary school???

[@charlottemckenzie5259]

Actually quit alcohol for 7 years now and keto, low carb or carnivore really help eliminate cravings for alcohol

[@ZadenZane]

Re caffeine and sleep, just don't drink any caffeine after the mid-afternoon.

[@SacredSecret]

Caffeinism. After a long period of time from consuming two fairly strong cups of coffee each morning and drinking a couple of sodas throughout the day, brought on migraines, overactive bladder at night, dizziness and anxiety. Then i realized i had way too much in my system. It takes more and more to get the same feeling, so i cut back and flush my system with water in between. It only took two days to feel the difference. I may have one alcoholic drink every year or two, so no problem with that.

[@robertsmith4129]

I have horrible dreams and delirium they are all disturbing violent and highly emotional. Drug use would probably send me completely over the edge,

[@PureMischiefAliCarter]

Alcohol is a drug

[@ramaircorp]

Thank you so much for this video..i also have schizo effective and have dabbled with drugs and alcohol as well thank you for letting me know that im not alone in these feelings...

[@Nonexistent12345]

I performed have never tried alcohol or drugs. Mainly because I study medicine. So, that I can become a Doctor. But however I like hearing other people’s stories about how it affects them in their daily lives

[@norbeaster784]

I’ve been having a super hard time quitting smoking and marijuana and microdosing. I wish the feeling would stop. I’m tired of being paranoid of everything and scared and have no connection to people or the world around me. it’s ruining my life

[@a.w.j.pilgrim]

I have schizophrenia and as I suffer with delusions I actually like to go out and be soba and sense reality. Some of my delusions are frightening and my reality is actually pretty good. That’s why I’m not depressed. I think on my antipschotics that I get drunk after one drink that I don’t like. I find you and Rob very motivating and inspiring. Keep up the good work and stay well, from Aaron.

[@EgonSorensen]

Neurologic effects of alcohol Aside from intoxication, or drunkenness, drinking too much alcohol in a short time or over time can cause other conditions, including: memory loss seizures headaches memory blackouts coordination issues dehydration overdose Long-term misuse can damage the nervous system, liver, and other organs. This damage may be irreversible. Drinking too much alcohol can also alter levels of certain nutrients in your body, including: thiamine (vitamin B1) folate (vitamin B9) vitamins B6 and B12 These vitamins are needed for proper nerve function. A diet poor in nutrients or avoiding eating can make nutritional deficiencies worse. Alcohol-related neurologic disease can include the following conditions: Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, also called Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome alcoholic neuropathy alcohol-induced cerebellar degeneration alcohol-related myopathy fetal alcohol syndrome alcohol withdrawal syndrome dementia, and other cognitive deficits Females can be more susceptible than males to many of the negative consequences of alcohol use, such as nerve damage, as they may begin to see effects from a lower amount of alcohol consumption. This may be due to body weight and other biological differences. Mild or moderate drinking may be safe for some people. But according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drinking less or not at all may help you avoid neurological harm.

[@katbland9149]

hmmm... why am I now questioning my use of drug and alcohol now cause you know... I totally agree, mental illness for not, both could negatively affect your mental state. Very interesting thought to have! Anyways! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@dkultraw6412]

IMO, the false narratives around drugs and alcohol are more dangerous and harmful than drugs and alcohol on their own. End the stigma, not the use.

[@beezilneverleft3176]

Oh please..."false narratives are MORE dangerous?" You obviously don't come from a genetic line of alcoholics.

[@angiehamilton3064]

I stopped drinking 13 years ago. The clarity I have know is amazing. I have deep depression and has really helped me alot.

[@lookupyourredemptiondrawsn7285]

U have the depression after quitting drinking?

[@angiehamilton3064]

I have always had depression 😊

[@TheEternauta69]

Hi everybody! I have schizoaffective disorder and I enjoy a couple of glasses of wine for dinner every night. Since I got sick, 33 years ago, I never used mariujana or psychedelics which I instinctively rejected. Before I got sick I tried them but they invariably made me sick in a sort of strange and fearful way. I don't see any negative impact on my mental health with red wine which I've been consuming for years. I feel more relaxed and at peace. At my age (54) after so many years I don't have a job, can't enjoy sex anymore, don't have friends etc... so I don't have any nice moments during the day, my husband is very sick and I'm taking care of him. As an italian living in Italy I'm not going to give up my glasses if red wine unless it would touch my brain and mental health which is not doing, if it was I would stop imnediately.

[@jguitar23]

Having grown up in the 70's-90's, I met many young people who were debilitated by drug & alcohol use. The deaths of so many super artists like Hendrix, Joplin, etc. also made me vary wary of recreational drug use. I'm thankful to have managed to avoid many health problems by insisting on staying sober, even if it was sometimes uncool.

[@Strawberry_shortcake732]

Completely off topic you look absolutely stunning ❤️

[@davidwestley6752]

As a person with schizophrenic tendencies, alcohol really comforts me😊 and makes me feel like everything is going to be alright ☺

[@Maximum12175]

What medications does your doctor prescribe, sorry if personal just wondering cos I also have psychotic depression

[@peterboyd7149]

I have depression and anxiety. My medication was leaving me with emotional numbness. I used alcohol because with alot i had some emotional feeling. I ended up attempting suicide after i left hospital my doctor changed my medication and it is ok so far. I am having my usual dip in mood that i get during winter i live in Scotland so days of sunlight are shorter in winter take care stay safe.

[@laxplanet6046]

Last year I did six weeks without alcohol and while I didn't miss it that much It wasn't long enough of a break to feel any real benefit. Iv'e been a heavy drinker for years and it all started with my first psychotic episode. I drank to deal with symptoms of my schizophrenia. After last years break I'm back to daily drinking. I find it very frustrating that the things I want to do, drink alcohol, vape, eat lots of carbs are bad for me. It feels unfair and I'm not sure if I care if I die young if it means I can still do these things. But then the quality of life comes into question, what will my quality of life be like if my liver fails and I need a transplant etc. So I'm really torn between wanting to live the way I always have and trying something new

[@jmora1914]

Bravo Lauren 👍👍👏👏👏. I am a paranoid skitzoeffective man, I've cptsd and more issues besides. I had a psychotic breakdown when I was 11, 16, and 22. Inflicted by horrific traumas and barbarity from family and others. I've been in and out of psychiatric hospitals all my life. I know that drugs and alcohol only worsen skitzoeffective and schizophrenia. Even marijuana induces psychosis and alcohol kills the brain cells and is carcinogenic, smoking is drug abuse as well imo. I'm glad to say I've never tried drugs or had a single drink of alcohol ever in my whole life. I've had 4 sips of alcohol but never a drink. I have an extremely serious and extremely medication- and treatment-resistant case of schizophrenia. My Drs have never met someone my age who's never tried any recreational drug or drunk alcohol. I'm on over 25 psychological medications and injections of antipsychotic meds every few weeks. I'm proud of myself bcz I've been a very smart man. Even in my teens when I went to college at 16 and graduated with 3 degrees in only 3 years. I never went out to parties and frat parties. Those places were imo no good. Bad things happened to girls and hazing guys at my college. So I chose to keep my studies foremost and even without seeing a psychological Dr for 3 years I was on meds and was in and out of consciousness from my DID. Still, I earned 3 master's degrees in a year each. I'm very highly intelligent and had a 5.1 GPA in my college years when I graduated at 19 with these 3 degrees I got tired of school and chose to pursue an art and writing career. Both of which I excel at. But I chose to be content with what I have and while many people I know and love say I've “no limits”. Bcz of my being on the straight and narrow I've achieved all my dreams and bcz of my dad and my grandpa's teaching I never drank or tried any recreational illicit drugs. I do take my medication and some are dependent. But that's no addiction. Being dependent on meds is like having diabetes and needing insulin. Is being on insulin an addiction or is it a necessary med? Addiction means abusing meds. There is a big difference. I take my sedatives 3 times a day to control my rage and my DID. And to sleep. I've never had addiction issues with my meds and no alcahol no recreational drugs and clean living has kept me very physically and mentally extremely healthy. I'm almost robs age and I've no health issues or bad cholesterol or high blood pressure etc. My Drs often ask me what do I take? I always say eat organic, be physically active, get rest, be healthy, and don't stress over things you can't control. Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery. But today is a gift, that's why it's called the present.😊😊

[@mitch5222]

Do u have anxiety?

[@jmora1914]

@@mitch5222 yes I have an anxiety disorder where I get horrible panic attacks

[@mitch5222]

@@jmora1914 same. What scares u the most?

[@jmora1914]

@@mitch5222 I guess my biggest fear is my DID take over again. While in college my alters took over my body and mind for most of those years of experiences. I have a few alters and they can totally take over unless I take my sedatives. The use of Ritalin can according to a study I found help treat DID. My Dr took me off Ritalin recently and It's been really hard recently. My DID has taken over a few times these last year and a half. It's really scary not recalling the last few weeks and coming back to yourself after being in a car and then not remembering how you got somewhere else. That's a big fear of mine.

[@mrchristoperh]

Im schizo-effective too. i used to self medicate with alcohol but that just made hallucinations worse, today i am 25 yrs sober and things are more manageable. i still hallucinate, just not as intense. only drugs i take is my prescribed meds by my dr today

[@Falkon303]

Getting rid of caffeine for me was the tough one, but once I did, I found I had way more energy, because it was always constant, and consistent, with no crash. Plus, caffeine is a psychoactive that can cause auditory hallucinations, and even psychosis. As far as keeping the temptation away, what works for me is hating them with a passion and wanting them to burn in hell forever.

[@PaigeHigginsVlogs]

This is so interesting. The church I belong to has a guideline to not drink or do drugs and I think it’s so smart. It’s so much better for your body!

[@sharonherzog5740]

self medication with substances is a real deal. People want instant results so they use (insert whatever) to not feel 9insert feeling). Meds take about 6 weeks to actually work and when you feel like crap that is a long long time.

[@claymac7895]

Alcohol IS a drug. It's the most harmful destructive drug there is. It just so happens to be legal and you can drink it.

[@dr.jenniferma3914]

The line between recreational drugs and prescribed drugs is arbitrary. You've created a split in your mind regarding this topic. The truth is more fluid. Safe, not safe, is relative.

[@philipkalimba3783]

Am schizoaffective bipolar 1 but I do drink occasionally when I get cravings or when with company but am trying to quit. Hard stuff

[@Catlily5]

Street drugs, pot and alcohol can make your mental health much worse.

[@ChaiChai1965]

Totally proven fact. She should have led with that rather than drugs are fun. Are they? Apparently, they caused her to have psychosis more than once and she kept doing them. Literally nobody should take medical advice from her. She's not a doctor and makes decidedly poor choices.

[@Catlily5]

@@ChaiChai1965 I think that overall her channel is positive.

[@WVMothman]

Mental illness was so prevalent in our family, my great aunt had schizophrenia since 1960. Because of that I refrained from excessive alcohol and stayed away from drugs all together, later in life I did have to get treatment for depression & my sister became schizophrenic.

[@JesusSaves77799]

Hi Lauren, I am only 2 minutes in to this video, but I have to say that I am surprised that you would even have wanted to take any mind-altering drugs because I would think that the experience could mimic the unpleasant ones during a psychotic episode. Do you think that the use of these drugs could have caused your schizophrenia in the first place? I am not saying this in a judgmental way, because I have tried these as well - but I really didn’t like them and just wanted the experience to end. I would definitely caution people against dabbling with them! Thank you for your honesty!! I am SO happy you are steering clear of them now! Great decision, I think! God bless you and your family in Jesus’s Holy Name, Amen! 🙏💖

[@jellevanderpal]

Part of the illness is a reduced ability to see reality as it is for everyone. Part of the illness is poisoning yourself and thinking you like it. Only to realize how stupid I was when I entirely quit substances. Drugs and alcohol don't mimic psychosis btw. They induce it. A psychosis or disrupted state of consciousness is a result of triggers, and drugs, alcohol, nicotine, weed, etc... all help to get to this state. But also trauma, social exclusion, loss of work/school, grieve when people die, etc. these all add to the insanity in the end. The effects of drugs and alcohol are somewhat pleasure-like, but put on a scale with your entire wellbeing rational people would not chose this mild pleasure over sanity.

[@andrewrusin2610]

What about drinking the communion wine at church. I thought about this also.

[@TheSapphireLeo]

Animal things are also carcenogenic, too, let alone with antibiotics?

[@Ohwell32]

I'm so glad to see you coming along in you journey. Your videos are so informative. I avoid drugs and alcohol too. I'd like to add some suggestions. You can make mocktails that are sugarfree or you can drink diet cranberry-cherry juice. It tastes like red wine without the aftertaste. Apple juice is also a good substitute for lighter wines. I like to make sugarfree tea lattes and decaf coffee lattes using coconut or almond milk. Many years ago my Mom switched to decaf by starting off with half caffeine and half decaf. I wake up without caffeine by eating breakfast and then get moving my body. It's nice to add fun extracts to coffee like coconut or vanilla for flavor. I always look forward to you videos, so keep up the good work.

[@wren1114]

Thanks for sharing these ideas!

[@Ohwell32]

You're welcome.@@wren1114

[@perrystalsisworldofbiology767]

Very good video. For me, I hate myself so much I don't care what drugs and alcohol do to me.

[@77777sadie]

Awe, you are worthy of love. No matter what you have been and are going through. Everyone has a purpose in life which includes those of us suffering from mental illness. I am 62 years old and I hated myself when I was young so i can relate. Know that you matter and Jesus loves you. Hugs ❤

[@2starYo79]

I am gonna be honest. Not sure what these last few videos are on about. You saying keto is helping so much but the whole time before that you were using psychedelic drugs and alcohol? I can't imagine your doctor didn't tell you what the risks were? I am not judging but why didn't you look at stopping with drugs and alcohol before. I have been heavily addicted because i had trauma. When I got help and stopped using drugs all my psychotic episodes dissappeard. I have been without symptoms and medications for 2 years. Good luck Lauren.

[@KatharinaPrick]

This comment needs to be at the top 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@80islandia]

She’s a human like anyone else who is allowed to have a drink or two. If you watch her video on psychedelics I think she says she’s tried them once or twice. Shame and micromanagement don’t help. Understanding the root causes of reaching for coping tools does. And Lauren explains her own reasoning very clearly at the top of the video.

[@mysticgirl]

I've not had any alcohol since my mid-twenties, and now I'm in my early thirties. I think it helps not being in the "party era" of life anymore, and I've never really enjoyed the taste of wine, champagne, beer or vodka. I typically reach for an ice cold diet soda instead, or a non-alcoholic cider for fancyer times. My mind feels clearer, and I don't have to deal with hangover the next day.

[@pivko93]

Can I ask, because I cannot find anywhere, is it safe to take pscyhodelics when taking antipsychotics, and do they even work then? seems like they would cancel each other out. I'd be super grateful for some info on that

[@JupiterSun-888]

No. Psychedelics can trigger psychosis & do trigger that for many.

[@visionvixxen]

Yep- all my friends make fun of me when I say help me avoid alcohol etc

[@keithagee8972]

Greeks 3 to 1 water alcohol

[@ruckboger]

Quitting alcohol was the best health decision I've made. It used to be kinda rough when life was stressful but that changed when I realized it didn't have to be. It was a mental game. There were lots of triggers in the beginning like stress (obviously) but also things like the smell of smoking, Mexican food and little things like the smell of mulch; because I would drink while working in the yard.

[@sierra734]

That takes so much strength i always thought how difficult it would be to quit alcohol when it’s available everywhere you go ! Congrats to you ❤

[@ruckboger]

@@sierra734 That's very kind of you to say. Thank you

[@wren1114]

Love your comments about the strength of old associations, wow, good points, and to rethink & re-feel. Thanks!

[@charlottemckenzie5259]

I quit weed and all drugs in my early 20s cause they made me feel crazy, couldn't sleep or function well. Quit alcohol at 32, went keto the. Carnivore. Had another baby. I function way better now...

[@80islandia]

Thanks for this update, Lauren, and glad the elimination of alcohol is going well! Jan 5 was my six year sobriety anniversary and I’m still thanking my 2018 self for that decision! 🎉 I hope you continue to feel good too :) I switched from coffee to tea a couple years ago but still enjoy black tea for a little caffeine boost. Personally I’ve found that eliminating coffee was harder mentally and physically than stopping psych meds and alcohol, so keep that in mind. Nothing wrong with a few vices 😂 Take care and looking forward to your updates! ❤

[@manicantsettleonausername6789]

As someone who doesn't do drugs, doesn't drink coffee and rarely drinks alcohol, I can absolutely recommend cutting these things out of your life. A few times a year I still drink alcohol because I enjoy the flavour of these drinks, but I never feel good and I might just cut alcohol out altogether. I think a lot of people are addicted but unwilling to admit it because it's so normalised in society and people feel ashamed and are in denial. Once you quit these substances and look back, it feels like you're looking at a cult the way people behave around alcohol, coffee and drugs.

[@WWS322]

I don't honor my experience with drugs. I wish I'd never used them. Recreational weed is legal in my state but I don't ever use it. When I used it I eventually got bored with it. I don't use alcohol either. It's a very serious thing, I am frail and sensitive. I could not survive long doing that. It's a predicament people are lucky to escape.

[@wren1114]

The myopia around recreational alcohol & drugs on channel was a reason I avoided it, good maybe changed, it’s not a political issue, it’s science & mental health awareness. But the ultra thin thing now, may dissuade watching it what often is informative. We need more voices, grateful Lauren has been trying to bring awareness warts and all.

[@pasanjay3097]

Start with Low Dose Naltrexone(LDN) should make quiting an easy ride.

[@kallie3000]

It's not an easy ride :( I have tried that.

[@jaydavis4569]

Did you find your posative symptoms improved with no alcohol and how long did it take for things to get better 12:58

[@powerwise234]

I've been using crystal meth for the past two months and haven't really had any issues so far.

[@maq989]

I think using recreational drugs and alcohol for someone with a mental illness can feel empowering. There’s a feeling of “I can do it and be fine just like everyone else”. For me, it was weed. Absolutely loved it as a teen and in college and how good and “normal” it made me feel around people w/o mental illness. Then by my mid 20s it magnified anxiety 10 fold. I’d end up questioning my existence, being paranoid that others are mad at me, amongst other very negative thoughts every single time. Only regret is that it took me many times of feeling that way before realizing I needed to ditch it.