What Caused My Schizophrenia?
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- čas přidán 17. 06. 2024
- Hello, eveyone! My name is Stephen. I'm documenting my journey living with schizophrenia on my CZcams channel "Surviving Schizophrenia." Today, I want to dive deeper into a question that's been on my mind for a long time: What caused my schizophrenia?
Understanding the Genesis of Schizophrenia: My Journey.
My life took an unexpected turn when I was just 12 years old. It was in 2012 when I experienced my first psychosis episode, a terrifying event that marked the beginning of my journey with childhood schizophrenia. I spent two weeks at the UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital, where I was initially diagnosed with schizophreniform disorder. However, this diagnosis soon developed into full-blown schizophrenia and an anxiety disorder. Today, as a 23-year-old, I manage my symptoms with a cocktail of medications, namely clozapine, Abilify, and Lexapro. Despite lingering negative symptoms and cognitive challenges, I am proud to say that I am surviving schizophrenia.
The Cause of My Schizophrenia
While schizophrenia is a complex, multifaceted disorder that's still not fully understood, scientists have uncovered several potential causes. It's thought to arise from genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.
Genetic Factors: Schizophrenia tends to run in families, suggesting a significant genetic component. While no one gene is believed to cause the disorder, specific genetic mutations may increase an individual's susceptibility. As far as I know, there's no family history of schizophrenia in my lineage, making me an intriguing case for many doctors.
Biological Factors: Biological aspects such as brain chemistry and structure also play a role in schizophrenia. People with schizophrenia often have an imbalance of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that can affect how the brain reacts to certain stimuli. Additionally, brain scans sometimes reveal differences in the brain structures of people with schizophrenia. It's possible that such neurobiological factors contributed to the onset of my disorder.
Environmental Factors: Certain environmental factors, particularly those encountered during critical periods of brain development, may contribute to the risk of developing schizophrenia. This includes prenatal exposure to viral infections, malnutrition, complications during birth, or psychosocial factors.
Psychological Factors: High-stress events, such as a death in the family, the end of a relationship, or the loss of a job, may trigger schizophrenia in people predisposed to the disorder. My onset came at a relatively quiet time in my childhood, making the cause even more puzzling.
Today, I manage my symptoms with a combination of medications. Clozapine is an antipsychotic medication that helps to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain. Abilify (aripiprazole) is another antipsychotic drug, and Lexapro (escitalopram) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that treats anxiety by helping to restore the balance of serotonin in the brain.
Living with schizophrenia hasn't been easy, and the battle with residual negative symptoms and cognitive problems continues. But I'm surviving and thriving each day with the help of my medication regimen, a strong support network, therapy, and a healthy lifestyle.
I hope sharing my story can help to educate, inspire, and challenge the stigma often associated with schizophrenia. Although it's a complex and often frightening disorder, understanding the many factors contributing to its onset can lead us toward more effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
Thank you for taking the time to read and participate in my journey. If you or someone you love is dealing with schizophrenia, know you're not alone. Resources and communities, both online and offline, can offer support. And remember - your diagnosis does not define you. You are so much more. Stay strong!
Your Friend,
Stephen
#schizophrenia #depression #mentalhealth #anxiety
![Psychosis explained simply [Introduction to Drug-Indcued Psychosis]](/img/n.gif)
Man what an awesome father. A lot of us don't have family support let alone a father that cares so much. I'm sure you guys are aware but sadly most cases go undiagnosed with people ending up in the streets.
True. Not a lot of families understand mental illness. My family since my sister and In were both single and not married treated me like my sick sister. They just didn't want to be involved leaving it to me.
He is blessed to have such a wonderful daddy ❤❤❤
A very supportive dad,which every child needs.This looking at any possible causes,such as being in some cold water,a ball hitting you on the side of the head,is totally fanciful.They surely know this,from interaction with the psychiatrist.This soul searching maybe gives some comfort,but to me seems non-sensical.
I feel for this kid
I doubt he is sctizo but the drugs are awful and can bring in delarium .
He will get very serious and disfiguring side effects..
Drugs deffo don’t work it side effects are shocking it’s all a money making thing the amount of money these ppl doctors think they know everything what works for one patient deffo won’t work for the next
Wow. I was diagnosed with schizophrenia at 19, and I lived in hell for years. That was as an adult. To have had that as a child would've been beyond insanity, and I can't imagine not to have been broken beyond repair. I'm amazed just hearing this story. Wow. Good for you. You have great parents. Support is so essential to recovery. They're your pillars. Good for you Stephen, in coming back from that nightmare.
Thank you very much for joining our journey. Be well!
Jesus can help you unlike medication can
God bless you just believe Jesus says anything is possible for the one who believes I couldn't even function all I had to do was believe and put my Faith in trust in him and he helped me
I'm not a doctor , but I have had my battle and found out gluten was destroying my brain . Gluten on some people causes a wide range of mental illness , and I have found out that a lack of vitamin B1 also can effect the brain. For me I had to stop bread and pasta . Wheat crackers that I thought was healthy impaired me so much .
Hope you all the best.
It’s amazing that you’re in a family with a calm and supportive dad. I love how he respects you so greatly and is obviously allowing you to be a man. God bless you all.
Besides high functioning autism, I also have schizophrenia. I didn't know I had schytz til I was an adult. My mom, who's in heaven, also had schizophrenia as well. You're not alone, bud. God's with you :)
there is a high correlation with gut mirobiome issues with both , as well as gluten. Both also have high ( 20-30% ) of patients incorrectly diagnosed with one or the other, where it turns out their symptoms were all actually a gluten related disorder. A blood test, and/or elimination diet can help see if you are part of that high group of people whose symptoms reduce or go away.
@@wearebornlikestars7706provide evidence or ur just rambling
@@nbome2733 really???
you can't just take the time to check into it yourself
You've been given a great clue and starting point
Be grateful
@@carolmaplesden916The burden of proof is on the preacher. You can’t just talk out of your ass and not back it up with receipts
@@helios8459 no you have to take responsibility for yourself not being child like with your hand out
I so respect this family for sharing their story. And thankyou to Steven’s parents for being devoted to his health, and not shutting him away from family life during this terrifying and difficult experience. Maximum respect to you all, especially Steven Junior for sharing your journey.
Hi to both of you. My husband who is 60 had onset of schizophrenia at 18. He too was a very good and involved student, learning physical education in wrestling. But one thing struck me on listening about the hypothermia you had Stephen. My husband at one point ran away in winter and would sleep outside then go to his high school and experience feeling as if in an oven and this seemed to have occurred at onset of schizophrenia. The extreme cold and extreme heat. Also, schizophrenia ran in his family, so genetics also. You are brave Stephen and im glad you have such a supportive dad and good care as a patient. Clozapine was also my husband's saving grace as far as positive symptoms. Thank you Stephen for your videos!
very interesting information!
So having children is not smatrat or kind choice.
Good video u have an amazing support group ur dad is a one prayers to u and ur family I hope u have a successful life
Stephen I hope u continue to have a wonderful life keep taking ur medication never ever give up u can do this positivity keep going to ur physc doctor and write a journal
Yes. And in our lifetime, people will realize this as spiritual gifts. You see? Feel? Hear? Multiple timelines at once. It can be exhausting… know that there is nothing wrong with you. You are actually more advanced than the rest of us and given a lot to swim through. JUST KERP SWIMMING.
I care for my adult son (48) in Britain and am so grateful to you for this video. My son came off his meds 4 years ago and I can see the symptoms returning. Your video has helped enormously in that I realize it is time for me to take action again. Best wishes to you all. You are a lovely family and Stephen, carry on with what you're doing because it is really good. Well done.
What kind of symptoms if I may ask? If I remember it shouldn't take 4 years for "symptoms" to "come back" because there are always symptoms: when the individual is in the prodromal phase I believe, they experience residual symptoms, the "positive" symptoms of schizophrenia (in this case, "positive" does not mean "good", but rather, refers to a class of symptoms)
I ask because I was unruly diagnosed and from the stories I've seen, it doesn't seem like I have it. (stupidly enough not thinking you have it is a symptom in itself, which is the stupidest thing I've encountered. How is someone to get a differential???)
Ms. Elizabeth, I wish you the best for you and your son. We all wish it will go away without meds. Unfortunately, we have to take our meds so we can somehow live a normal life. Please, tell your son he has to take his meds!!! Lots of love from Istanbul.
Please try the ketogenic diet Dr Palmer
@@ashleyriblet2326 hi hope you are doing well my brother had undiagnosed schizophrenia for 4 years he was living away from us and we didnt know when he dropped out of unviversity and started doing nonsense stuff..
So my parents took him home he was absoultely a nightmare to deal with but somehow we conviced him to take meds now he is taking meds regularly his symptoms has decreased but he is still not normal he just sleeps and watches video games and movies all day will he recover please reply
Your father and mother are amazing. They did nothing wrong and everything right to help bring you back to reality. I want you all to keep doing what you are doing, bringing understanding and compassion to people who have to live with and manage psychotic illness.
Thank you very much for the amazing encouragement and support! They are amazing!
@@SurvivingSchizophreniaYou are amazing.
HYPER SENSITIVE children use to develope schizophrenia or psychotic episodes...I was one of those children back in the day....
I discovered that a loooot of times, my "thoughts" was not mine, I mean...I was able to hear/feel the thoughts from other people's mind. So... I had to learn how to CLOSE my own mind/channel/brain to not feel/hear intrusive thoughts. Hyper Sensitive people don't know about this at the beginning so, we look for answers in the common field of sciences (psychologists, Psiquiatrics, etc). I started getting better from 2012 to 2020, because I new different scientists with new waves of knowledge, quantum physics, neurosciences, holistic psychologists, etc.
@@SurvivingSchizophrenia I totally agree. May I ask if you ever had results for autoimmunity and/or microbial cysts and/or mild chronic infections?
I'm so glad I happened upon your videos! My brother's twin sons apparently had early/childhood onset schizophrenia. This was back in the 1960's and it was a very challenging time for the kids and my vrother and his wife. I felt so sorry for the whole family. It took years and years to find some kind of therapy that could restore some semblance of a "normal" life. Then there were multiple episodes of either or both boys deciding to quit their meds and the whole rollercoaster commenced all over again. They would get arrested, once 9that I'm aware of) they beat the crap out of my brother because they were convinced he was the reason they were so unusual. They had an older sister who somehow managed to have a regular life for a teenaged girl. Oh, btw, the boys evidenced their condition at 13 years of age. As twins, they baffled and fascinated the neuropsychiatric community. So, they received a lot of different treatment modalities but they also became "lab rats" because at that time schizophrenia in twins was extremely rare. Long story short here, they finally managed to find some medication and supportive therapy that allowed them to have a decent young adulthood. Until one of them was killed immediately when a pickup truck hit him alongside a rural road one morning while he was jogging. They were around 25 at the time. While tragic and so sad, it was also wierd because the surviving twin started behaving and even looking like his now deceased brother. He grew a bierd, starting dressing more like he did. . . Well, now the one of the twins is living on his own, has a long term girlfriend and a full time job. He still doesn't do well when the whole family gets together for the holidays but he can sit at a big table for dinner, etc. But then he discreetly disappears to a bedroom to just be by himself. He s a very intelligent and interesting man; gentle and thoughtful and finally seems to have found some peace ithis life. What a whirlwind it all was, though. This felt so good to just get the story out. Thank you both so much for your candor and openness.
Thank you Anna-Lisa for your incredible comment. I appreciate you sharing your story. Thank you for your encouragement and support. It means a lot to me. Thank you for being here.
Thank, you Stephen--and your /dad, of course. I sure hope continued research can pin down the origins of this phenomenon soon. There are still too many wonderful, bright lights in our human family who are tormented by it all. Again, thank you for providing a place for other schizophrenics and those who love them to sort a lot out snd not feel so alone.
My daughter was diagnosed at a young age with Schizophrenia. I had a very hard labor with her and sometimes I think that caused it. Also, we had a few family members with the same illness. So it definitely is a genetic disorder. Your lucky to have very supportive parents
Prodrome, not "predrome". I have that word tattoed on my thigh because I went through a really severe panic disorder (derealization, depersonalization) and was terrified/convinced I was in the prodrome. Approximately 7 years later I've been diagnosed with bipolar, and have now experienced some significant psychotic features. It was my biggest fear in life, and I've overcome it. Stephen, thank you for making these. We NEED to talk about this shit. It's no joke. People who are lucky enough to be healthy need to lift us up as opposed to making it worse. I wish everyone had to experience mental illness just to have an idea of the hell it can be, and the strength it takes to come out alive. Opinions would shift QUICKLY
Well said
❤️🩹💜🌟
Right- if every one in the world experienced someone else’s normal- especially mental issues, that would help us all be able to participate in life!
Had the same thing not panic attacks but fits. I had epilepsy
You have remarkable courage to present your illness with such candour. I hope you are able to manage your condition and you are doing well. You have a wonderful, supportive father. Good luck to both of you.
It's so nice to see how a persons can live a happy productive life when the family is present. Steve videos are amazing! My sister in law has schizophrenia, these videos are helping me a lot to understand how she might feel. You're doing an amazing job with your videos by helping about a subject that can be hard to understand. You are making a big difference in people's lives!
I do not have this illness, a few close people do. I want to thank you so much for sharing your survival with it. I also think it's awesome your dad is included in some videos get to see it from both views, one who has it and the parent.
Hi Stephen & Stev
I thank you for being so candid. My son started with schizophrenia at the age of 18, the early symptoms were he starred to isolated himself, we as a family were clueless. Elliott's Sister separated from her husband, it upset us all but he took it very hard as it affected his relationship with his nice & nephew. Then a few months after that he developed epilepsy & schycosis that was back in 2010. It took us until 2018 to get a diagnosis he started on clozapin it was as if someone turned a light switch on, we could see an improvement on a weekly basis, unfortunately we didn't get to see the full impact of the treatment because he passed away only a few months later, nothing to do with the diagnosis. I was a freak reaction to one of his otherr meds. While he was sleeping he suffered a gastric hemorrhage, they didn't get to him on time.
Stephen, you are so lucky to have such a supportive family. I find myself thinking of all those people living on the streets without anyone to back them, and my heart bleeds.
I will pray for you all to stay close and strong
All my love
Sue Mac
Bless your dear son 🙏
So many people have this disease and are unable to get the help they need. So glad you did, and maybe getting it at a younger age they had some time to figure out what was going on. These videos will help others with this illness. ❤
Steven you have amazing parents and im so glad you are healing! How scary for ones who go through this alone.😢
Thank you so much for sharing your experiences - my sister is Schizophrenic and so was my Dad though he remained undiagnosed until late in adulthood. You're both amazing - wishing you all the best.
Thank you so much for sharing your journey!! Helping us to understand your world is so important! I’m a healthcare provider that has worked with those with schizophrenia and they are just lovely people!
Wow what an amazing video. Thank you so much for sharing your story. My LO was diagnosed in January and was bounced around to five different hospitals within three months. After the fifth hospital they finally found the right cocktail. He’s also on clozapine and yes it’s a life saver! I’m so very proud of you for your recovery and for making these videos. Love the support of your parents too! ❤ your explanation of this illness is point on.
Stephen, you have such a great dad. No matter our circumstances, I believe that is one of the great best starts in life. Thank you and your family for your openness, sharing your story, vulnerability and all. 🇦🇺
Thank you for sharing this video. I’m on a journey to learn more about schizophrenia. We have a close friend that suffers with it. Grew up with him and it manifested in his late 20’s. He has basically lived two lives. One of health, marriage and a college degree, successful career. But then of psychosis, hospitalization and recovery. It’s very hard for family and friends to know what to do. Anything that is shared is valuable because we just want to love and help them. I wish there was more study into this condition but watching this video helps in understanding another journey. What worked for you. Wishing you the best.
Thank you so much Jennifer. I appreciate you sharing. It’s very meaningful to me
Stephen, the power of your personal journey is so encouraging.
Thanks to both you and your dad for sharing your truth.
I think it's really cool you have such a supportive father who is a part of your video content, too. Seriously, family is what matters the most at the end of the day.
Your story has touched my heart and gave me more hope than I can ever express. My so is 19 but we finally got a diagnosis 8 weeks ago. It's been a dark horrible journey that has just begun. As a mom I want to help my son and it feels helpless but your channel has brought me understanding and hope for the future.
Please read Brain Energy by psychiatrist Chris Palmer. I think everyone with mental health problems should read it.
My son and his wife are dealing with my grandson's schitzoeffective disorder. It's been a really difficult struggle.
it is very cool to hear people sharing their experiences with mental illness, I appreciate it very much!
Wow thank you for this. My son had his first episode at 12 and we are still going thu it. We are in year 3 now. Your words are so encouraging. I wish we could talk with you. ❤Thank you for letting me know I’m not alone. I love my son and we want to do everything possible for him.
I'm glad your parents are so supportive Stephen, and that you've found the right combination of medications. I work in residential care, and supervise the home. I work with individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, major depressive disorder, anxiety, etc. Most of the residents symptoms are extremely debilitating. I am saddened because one of the residents is currently not stable, and has been in a state of psychosis for the last 2 months. I hope that they find this person the right combination of medications. I think that the hospital released the resident too early. The person currently thinks that there are a group of people out to kill them. I couldn't imagine going through that every day! Your channel is very informative. My mom was diagnosed with schizophrenia when I was young. I didn't know much about it then. I remember some of her odd behaviors when she was in a state of psychosis. She's probably part of the reason that I got a job in mental health care. Anyway, you and your family have a wonderful day! 😊
It's hard when a parent is exhibiting odd behavior when there is no name or explanation for it and moreover a person gives the impression of being normal outside the home. I discovered by gradually putting pieces together years after a living hell with my mother that she was not only narcissist but paranoid. I carried around an inordinate sense of guilt simply by being around her and blamed for things I didn't do.
Later on, when she finally got everything she wanted in life mainly by swindling and using out others, she accused her live-in lover of hiding guns in the attic (also accused my adult son of stealing jewelery several years before). If she did not progress to outright psychosis towards the end of her life, no one would have believed me about the abuse I suffered from her.
I had no idea what normal was, so proceeded into marrying a person who also seemed to be functional in the sense he was able to work but would suddenly blurt out provocative and even outlandish things. He was impulsive (he was never able to drive on account of this) and used to enjoy taking risks (that may have given him a dopamine high).
His behavior and cognition took a dive after his stroke of 2013. Finally, an MRI in December 2019 revealed he had and OLD temporal lobe injury. This corroborated MY OWN diagnosis when reading about FTD, or Frontal Temporal lobe Dementia two years before and after joining a support group. Indeed, my mother and husband were able to pass back and forth between normalcy and otherwise dysfunctional behavior.
Thank you so much for sharing Melissa! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!
Thank God your parents are there for you keep your head Steven stay strong.
Hi my name is linda my adult child thinks people are wearing mask sometimes he punches me an calls me names i liv in dallas county his diagnosis as paranoid schizophrenia he refused meds at home but wen he in the hospital he takes meds ..;he was prescribed olanzanpine 20 mg and he keep saying he want go to vatican and rome and gets mad wen i cabt get him there i wish i could find a residential care center for him in dallas
Genetic predisposition can be triggered by life’s stressors and, in worse case scenarios, trauma.
Back in the 1980's I began to have severe, terribly disabling panic attacks. They came on after a long period of extreme stress when I was caring for my husband who then died. I wasn't on any drugs or anything other than the exhausting level of stress I had been under. I appreciate you and your father doing these videos to help educate us.
@barbh1 the kind of stress a caretaker can experience (especially if they are under attack) can cause extreme biochemical changes resulting in out of range mineral levels and ratios to other minerals. This was documented through repeated hair tissue analysis in my case. This biochemical alteration alone affects mental perspective, distortion and responses without question. PS hair tissue analysis is not a modality utilized by mainstream medicine however it has been invaluable in providing answers they couldn’t! Blessings
@@carolyngreen5458 Finally, someone understands. I hope all these terrible mental conditions will soon be understood and alleviated. Thank you.
@@barbh1 many cases of mineral imbalances/deficiencies are MISDIAGNOSED as “mental” disorders. It’s something mainstream docs aren’t allowed to acknowledge as they are only exposed to a few hours of nutritional information. Even a good auto mechanic knows what fuel is required for optimal performance of his “patient”. May God bless you richly for your service to others at great cost to yourself 🙏
I went thru something similar when I was taking care of my mother in law. Whenever, the phone would ring in the night or early morning hours, my heart would race and I couldn't breathe. Try telling this to my husband but he wouldn't listen. Would just complain as if I wasn't doing enough. Due to visiting the ER so often, I got my lungs lining inflamed. Developed pneumonia two times. Got bronchitis a few nights. It's like my body couldn't handle it anymore. This is taking care of a woman I didn't like. One day I just had to say enough and told my husband he would have to take care of her. I was done. The stress of caring for someone can lead to illness. Hope you are doing well now.
Yes, thank you, I'm doing well now. I think it weakened my system because I contracted Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. I"ve learned I have a certain amount of energy and can't use up too much or I'll get a flare, but I'm used to it now, and it's okay.
My journey started at 16 started with IBS then depression/anxiety till this day. Almost ten years.
Walked in the psychiatric ward at 20, diagnosed with schizophrenia/schizoaffective/major depression in that year.
I am lucky to finish highschool and two years of college before finally dropped out. I went to therapy for two years after the week of hospitalization. I have the psychiatrist and the right combination of medicine just to function daily chores in my parents home. Still struggling with suicide thoughts and illusion if things got serious.
I write poetries and am currently working on a novel.
Thank you Stephen and Stephen's dad sharing for your story. These things are so precious. (I recalled having similar possible head injuries at 13 and 17, maybe caused my seizure)
I still believed in God. My family and my pastors support me a lot.
God bless you🙏🙏
Thank you for explaining this. I'm a recovering alcoholic, and it really helped me to understood my illness, i.e., what was happening to me. That's when recovery started to be possible. I will always have the sickness, but I have tools to cope with it, and I'm gratefulness.
You have a great father-son relationship, you're good-hearted people. I wish you well. Keep this on! 👍🏻👍🏻
As a mental health nurse, i commend you both. What a brilliant video, its both informative and gives people insite into what its really like living with this. Youre both beautiful peoplem i even learned from this. Much love from england xx
Would you agree that all of the scitzophrenic patients you see are cannabis users?
This young man is doing great despite all the challenges that he has been dealt with!! Good luck with everything and may you be successful in all your endeavours!! Never give up on believing in yourself ❤
Thank you for sharing your story! It is inspiring. I have a 20 year old son who was diagnosed with schizophrenia back in 2019. It has been devastating to our family, but we are learning to move forward and have faith. Acceptance is very important and your videos help so much! Thank you again!
Thank you for joining my journey! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!
Life is hard without a disability. Can’t even imagine having to be that strong. I’m glad u are sharing. People need to open up if they can, so others know that aren’t alone and learn knowledge & skills from each other. I was blessed with awesome parents too. Feel for those who are not so blessed as us🌸
I am really glad you are doing this. There are many misconceptions about schizophrenia. It is also something people don't talk about. Great information.
I’m so glad you didn’t go to residential care in Utah. Staying with people who love you is profound medicine. This will be devastating to parents who love you. Such periods of stress, uncertainty, anxiety & certainly fear. And loneliness, undoubtedly. I was thinking, “I wonder if Montessori would be a helpful option for Stephen” (as a young child) & right then dad mentions that you did do some Montessori. I think Montessori would’ve been good for me but there was none where I grew up in Appalachia. Sounds like you have access to excellent resources for healthcare. Thanks for a great video. 👍🇺🇸✅
I’m a school nurse and any type of TBI concerns me. Early treatment for concussions is necessary and so many times my students/parents just brush off these injuries. I’m so sorry you are experiencing so much in your young years. You’re a fine young man with great parents. I’m praying for you now.
How do you treat a concussion?
@@ST-yc7ujIn my experience there is no treatment, but the person needs to be kept under observation in case they suffer delayed effects such as coma, etc. Once when I was a teenager I was taken to hospital and had to lie in bed for hours with a nurse coming to take my pulse, temperature, etc every ten minutes. When I got home I became very ill; turned out I had caught a nasty virus from the nurse!
Gosh , no insight for three years , bless you both .
You are both bloody amazing .
I am so thankful to see the way the father and son interact! It looks like you are making the best out of your situation.
Praying for you Steven, I have a sister that has schizophrenia I understand what it is. You have wonderful parents Steven.
The medical info is so eye-opening!!! Thank you for sharing this🙏
Thanks to you Stephen and to your great father. My grandson got schizophrenia after a traumatic brain injury. I know how hard this can be. Thanks so much for your video.
Stephen, thank you for the important work you are doing here. I hope you know how important you are and feel so proud of yourself. We are blessed to hear from you and gain a deeper understanding of this. I have a family member struggling with this and I’m sickened by how it’s talked about and all the stigmas there are about it. Its been very hard to see how people overlook her humanity and doubt her and also how hard it is to be taken seriously for other health problems because they all want to blame things on mental illness. She is an incredible human being, so smart and the kindest person I know and my heart aches that a diagnosis like this has caused her to be treated as less than human at times. I wish I knew what to do and how to fight for her in this regard. The more people like you that share openly about your experiences, thoughts and feelings, the more people will start to see the human beings behind the label. I’m so so grateful for you. ❤
Thank you for sharing your experiences. My cousin has schizophrenia, he has a different history than yours. I find comfort in hearing other people stories.
19:05 Im diagnosed with schitotypal PD. My mother always says "you are normal and you look good, why do you go to a psychotherapist" she can't handle it... I think she feels kind of guilty...
You have a great dad.. you're a good team. Wish you al the best
Steven you are an incredible, amazing young man!!! My son was just diagnosed with late onset schizophrenia. So I'm totally new to.this journey. I came across your video completely accidental. And I'm so glad I did! I am a huge fan and cannot wait to see your other videos!! You give me hope!
These videos will help so many people. Stephen is a very bright, wonderful young man and his father is amazing. Keep up the good work.
Thank you both for sharing your story with us. I found it very helpful. You are blessed to have such wonderful support from UCLA and their departments. Tha
My Son was 14yrs old was diagnosed at 15yrs old he's now 37 and still going in and out of hospital we still support him, he does live in supported accommodation , but it's the hardest Illness, if u break your arm you can see it but not the same for mental illness, so good to see this for us my boys taking the same meds, we didn't choose this life for him or us but we're doing the same, me and my husband support him and always will wasn't the life we wanted for him but we must go on we love him dearly, and also we don't really now how it happened take care and all the best
❤
It was very interesting hearing this part of your story, Stephen. Thanks so much for sharing. The two things that struck me was hearing about your hypothermia, but also the headaches. I'll keep watching your videos to continue learning. I trust you're keeping well. 💝
Thank you for watching! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!
First of all, I want praise ,father and son (Stephen) in their presentations of the diagnosis, experiences and symptoms of schizophrenia. You guys are truly wonderful in helping people unfamiliar, and familiar with the experiences that come with schizophrenia. Thank You both,❤
You didn't choose this life, but now you are helping thousands of people with these invaluable videos.
I have schizophrenia as well and had a brain scan that was normal. Thank you for your openness on this topic. I enjoy your videos.
Thank you, DJ, for joining us. Be well! Post any questions and we’ll try to answer and respond.
What kind of brain scan did you have? Thanks.
What about CRISPR technology?
What do you think about idea that schizophrenia and most of the mental illnesses are form of possession by parasitic entities that we cannot perceive with out 4-5 dimensional thinking and observations? Like higher dimensional parasitism that feed on hosts energy.
Hmmm
You two are so loving with each other. It's beautiful to see.
Thank you again for these videos.
Just happened upon this video. You are both inspirational! Such a loving family. Thank you for speaking out and helping others!
Loved your vid. You're amazing Steven and so are your parents. Keep up the great work
Hey Steve...way to go man on being patient with your dad 😁I think he gets as excited as you making these help videos..
I REALLY appreciate this video. My partner displays a LOT of the symptoms of schizophrenia, and he's very resistant to help. It's tore us apart. I feel so alone in this, so you guys sharing has really helped me feel not as isolated.
I was deeply touched by the obvious love you have for each other. I wish you all the best. Very informative.
I am so proud of you Stephen. My entire family was and is in mental illness. I had and I came out of it, by being alone for 13 years doing mediation, eating vegan food, working out and work on my buiness. sending you so much love and hugs. You are a brave soul. Keep giving us knowledge, it helps us to deal with our family. ❤
Thank you very much! Your words are incredibly meaningful to me and encourage me! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day!
My adult son was diagnosed with autism at 3 yrs old and also deals with misophonia and synesthesia, so sensory overload happens pretty quickly for him. I grew in grace towards others so much faster because of his struggles for, as you said, I realized that a person can appear perfectly normal on the outside and not be. You just don't know what people are dealing with behind closed doors.
You are a remarkable young man, and your Dad is an awesome support person. My sister and my son are schizophrenic, and I myself have bipolar 1 and anxiety. My son was diagnosed in his 40's. You had such an early onset. It must have been overwhelming. Best of luck to you.
Schizophrenia is a just a label to cover many things, it's a social science. It's not based on what you think it is like other diseases. He needed friends and a girlfriend and to be part of life, and somebody in their 40s used drugs to get to that point or they were just isolated. We need to actually be real about things and the standards and pickiness of friends and women. It's not this magical disease in the air, it's just a result of being rejected and not part of life.
@@szzk7937 My son did NOT use drugs, but he was relatively isolated. As a nurse and a family member of a person who has suffered for decades with schizophrenia, I have a fair understanding of what it entails. My son is divorced with one child. Dating has been a challenge for him. Society has a long way to go.
@@szzk7937 I have been looking at the social construction of mental illness and it is fascinating.Thank you for opening my eyes to this aspect.
First video I've seen of you. Thanks. Your dad seems wonderful, glad your family is so supportive--it's huge.
i cant lie, this is really hard to watch as someone who has struggled with a more extreme version of the same thing but without the support system or caring doctors around. It makes me wonder what my life could have been if someone had just believed me early on.
Please be kind to these folks. It's extremely painful.... It's a Brian disorder like autism any other brain disorder. Be kind...
Thank you Steve.for sharing your experiences, you are a good looking intelligent young man and I wish all the best. I have a couple of friends who suffer from this mysterious disease. I think it is people like you and your supportive father that will help us all get to a solution.
😢
Thank you for sharing your experience. It’s so inspiring to hear about how you all work together as a unit and about all of the helpful people who have been part of your journey. Our family struggles with mental illness and I hear what your saying about the invisibility factor. I also feel like it requires an incredible amount of vulnerability, bravery, and willingness to accept how it filters our experience of ourselves and one another.
I don't like how the father kept interrupting about this boy "not being abused or molested"..
You are an amazing person and we are thankful you are sharing your story!
Good job! Steven has a gift of expressing himself. That will save him or at lest slow his symptoms. And meds are getting better over time. ❤
INSIGHT is so important! I didn't even know what that was until one day my doctor told me I have more insight than most patients. So I looked it up. No matter what your psychiatric or medical condition, insight into a chronic illness is the only way you can stay your healthiest self. Like you said about prodromes, you have to figure out what the warning signs are for you that you may be headed in the wrong direction. And when you think it is healthy to do so, let your family and closest friends watch for the signs as well. I did a lot of self-study about my diagnosis. I also read books by patients themselves as well as practitioners in the field. Nobody is the same; we are all different. Learning from others I believe is key to figuring yourself out. It is so painful to struggle for such a long time when you don't have insight into your condition. Your 10 yrs seems very commendable IMO. I stumbled onto your channel and I thank you for putting this information out to help others. Just think, if we could do more of what you are doing, maybe we could cut that insight period down to 6 yrs!!! Wouldn't that be a blessing!!!
did it take 10 years for him to gain insight?
My son was diagnosed 30 years ago. It took over a decade and I finally found a doctor that suggested genetic testing. My son has Chromosome 22 Deletion. Testing specifically identified medications that would work with no side effects.
Hi my son also has this its also known as de George syndrome and had a diagnosis of schizophrenia in early 2022 after suffering from delusions voices and disturbing visions its under control now and long may that last sending my regards from the UK
Hey can you please let me know what medication did you give him. How is he doing today. I have similar problem but never went for gene testing. Thank you any response will be appreciated. Thanks again. I am a mother facing same situation.
@tinaghengis6497 hi my son takes 15mg of aripiprazole since he was diagnosed with schizophrenia after a few hit and misses with a few other drugs he is doing amazing now and no more voices or visions he doesn't have a mental health issue at all the psychiatrist has said he actually can't guarantee that the drug he is still taking is keeping his issues at bay or it could have been a one off incident that may have righted itself anyway 😕 I hope that helps
@@eveeggleston7611
Thank you. it was a great help. Hope and Pray your son will forever be in good health. Best wishes from Katy, Texas.
My son (grandson I'm raising ) has been diagnosed with very early onset childhood schizophrenia. He was unofficially diagnosed at age 5. The official diagnosis then was childhood psychosis with a feeding disorder. He at age 8 was officially diagnosed with schizophrenia, anxiety and a feeding disorder. He had to have a feeding tube placed a little over 2 years ago.
Your story has given me hope that maybe he doesn't have to be in a placement. How did you get all that in home care?
I have no help. I'm raising 2 grandchildren and my daughter just died so a 3rd arrived. To get any more evaluations I have to travel 4 and 5 hours one way. Having in home help would be awesome.
May God Bless you. Those grandchildren are so blessed to have you to step in and love and care for them. What a difficult walk you have.
I am a Christian. If you feel inclined, please contact me for prayer for your family. 🙏🏻
@@deborabenedon3255 Thank you. I am a Born Again Christian.
Great parents bring up great kids … Steven is proof! What an intelligent, empathic, and kind person. And what a journey you all have had since the early onset of his disease. It must have been absolutely heartbreaking to see the changes and not know what was going on. I just found your channel but Steven looks like he is handling it well now. I know psychosis can come but he has such insight I think he would have more clues now. I pray that you all will find peace and comfort and healing from the trauma you have been through. ❤️🇨🇦🙏🙏🙏
I have been having a mental problems that began with headaches too. :/ Steven is very sweet though and is taking this very well. I hope he stays well. It's not fair to have to go through something so tough.
Thank you for sharing yourselves with us. So educational.
Thanks for sharing, I been watching your videos and I don't feel myself alone in this journey.
Thank you very much Farida! That makes me happy!
Great to have you joining us on our journey (your journey too!). This is such a tough illness. I see that you're in PV too. Stay in touch and best wishes for the holidays and for health and happiness. Steve
@@SchizophreniaSurvivor
@@SchizophreniaSurvivor Thanks for replying. My son name Wally has the same illness. everyday is a new challenge. after watching Stephen's videos I got hope and smile. I'm thinking to establish some kind of group support for parents like us. who are strong and helping their kids.God bless us and our families Happy Holidays.
Wow, as a parent that would be so hard. Kudos parents for sticking to it and what a great example of keep going till it gets figured out. I am in awe
And Stephen, kudos to you for not giving up and sharing your insight and experience. You guys are a blessing for people I am sure. ❤❤❤
Thank you for sharing your experience which will help others. Your father-son bond is precious.
Wow you guys are so brave.. thank you so much for sharing this. I can relate to a black hole period.. I suffered years of depression and then as an adult watched my son get swept under by it and lost him to suicide. Grief is indeed hard. I agree we don’t always realize we are ill, or how ill we are, until we get treatment and feel better.
😢Julia l can also relate, and like you we lost our son to suicide, and the other is in and out of psychiatric hospitals. This causes unrelenting depression on the family. May God keep blessing you Stephen and family. You are such an inspiration 🙏🙏🙏
I feel and understand how confusing and difficult all this can be because of what we have been through. Isolation. Frustration. Lack of activity or interest. Can’t sleep. Three months of not communicating and not coming out of the room. Not showering or cleaning. Hoarding the rooms upstairs. Started @21 for ours
I just wanna say thank you for sharing. My 19-year-old daughter has just been diagnosed. In fact, the rug is been yanked out from under us.
I was first ill when I was 16, I had my drink spiked with a drug, probably Amphetamine. I recovered from psychosis but from that point onwards when ever I drank alcohol I wouldn't remember what happened, but instead would believe my thoughts as memories. Stress caused me to become psychotic few times during my life. Now at 49, I have finally given up alcohol 2 and a half years. Giving up alcohol has only helped only slightly. I have been on Zyprexa 26 years, which I know is a long time, during that time I tried to come off it once, a month later was in hospital. I can say I'm not what you would call happy with my life, but I am content. It's not over yet. Just thought I'd say sleep is the key to being well.
Good for you, you are very brave and I wish you all the best.
True, you never know what is going on in a person’s head. You cannot see it. but we can talk about it. So thank you again Steve and father, you are both helping and quite amazing.
Thank you for sharing your story and your advice about sleep also
Add a bunch of B vitamins, if you haven't. That an low dose ketamine helped me. Sending strength.
I have schizoaffective disorder. I`ve had strange issues all my life that got worse and worse. I went from playing and singing in bands and solo to a paranoid recluse. I`m afraid to go to my mailbox and if I see anyone I go back inside fast.
You've suffered Advese childhood Experiences ACEs
Thank you for sharing your story. You are on track for living your best life.
I had this illness as a child and only found out i had it when i was 48 had no help or support from anyone so lucky to have such a good Dad
My fraternal twin became ill with schizophrenia at 12 as well. Scary stuff. That was 20 years ago. She’s better now, unfortunately we didn’t have overly supportive parents that encouraged her to do “more”. She was hospitalized quite a bit which is also traumatizing for kids. She doesn’t drive much and still lives on SSI. I recently was diagnosed ptsd, very borderline traits combined w psychosis. So 20 yrs later I finally understand her symptoms, altho I am grateful they weren't as long term as hers. She and I both had god related “delusions”. She however had hallucinations and voices as well
Bless you both
So sorry
How do you get better its a switch you cant undo
The reality: God exists
Demon possession nothing else
I love the love you have for each other. ❤
Thank you very much! Have a happy and healthy rest of your day. Thank you for joining my journey!
Great information, it's great to see family support. It definitely makes a difference! Love!!
Wow! Thank you so much for your bravery and well thought out responses.
your empathy for one another is beautiful.
Thank you very much! Have a wonderful holiday season!
Yes it brought tears to my eyes..Beautiful❤
The love…….. that’s the answer that explains your well being now. Praise God your doing so well. Praying you continue to improve 😊
God bless you guys. You rock Stephen! My state is found lacking when it comes to mental health. I'm glad that's not the case for you. Thanks for sharing.❤
Hugs to you and your family! I Have schizophrenic members in my family.
The greatest thing you have going for you is you admit to having the disease!! Non of my family would and wouldnt take medication etc...
I know what you all going through! My Grandson has it. I felt the same way about putting him in a home. We didn’t and he’s doing better now. My grandson was young also. They said for years he was Autistic. But he won’t take meds. He always have headaches and shoulder pain. It is hard people don’t understand. Thank-you Stephen for doing these videos! It is a dark time for all going through it!
So sad for these families. It’s mind boggling for sure . I hope the medical community finds a good answer as to what is happening to our kids 😢
Who would
Hi dear Stephen! Just have on my heart to tell you that I had sleep paralysis and some other problems that almost took me to hospital. Maybe you are not religious and thats good, because I was and it didn't help. But when I found out about Jesus Christ i found that religious people hated Him and that He sad things that nobody sad in whole history. I start to read New Testament and I tell you now that He is answer for every need for all of us. His Word is alive as He is! I bless you and your family in Jesus name!
great to hear all of your story,and positive attitude!
What a wonderful example of a Father and Son relationship, Dad i am sure it goes without saying, But you Sir must be very proud of your fine Son.
His illness can and never will define who he is, He does that himself along whis family upbringing, including friends, and community.
Any Mam or Dad would be lucky to have a Son like Stephen. cheers Gabriel