Schizophrenia Mythbusting for Caregivers and Loved OnesWhen a loved one is given a diagnosis of schizophrenia, it's understandable that we may have frightening notions about what lies ahead. Most of us have absorbed bias and misinformation...Reactions0reactions
What are Negative Symptoms of Schizophrenia and How Can They Impact You?I really dislike when people call me "high functioning." What does that even mean? Where, or in what capacity, do I function better than others? Because I work full-time in...Reactions0reactions
Making a Big Decision During a Meltdown"What's going on, Ashley?" my supervisor asked. "It's time for me to go. I'm putting in my 2 weeks notice," I replied. "Did someone upset you?" she asked. "Nobody did...Reactions0reactions
The Impact of Schizophrenia on My FamilyI am lucky enough to say that my family was and is a huge part of my support system. Without them, I don't think that I could have successfully navigated...Reactions0reactions
5 Easy Ways Anyone Can Be an AdvocateLiving with schizophrenia can be challenging, but advocating for yourself and others can be healing and make a significant difference. As someone navigating the complexities of this mental health condition...Reactions0reactions
6 Resources For Beating The Caregiver BluesIn my advocacy work as a person whose loved one has schizophrenia, I try to focus on the positive – but that doesn't mean I don't have bad days. Caring...Reactions0reactions
Schizophrenia and Social MediaMost of us know that social media can harm our mental health if we spend too much time scrolling. One of the things it is natural to do but which...Reactions0reactions
Medication Management: Don't Lose HopeFor over 3 years, my doctor and I tweaked my medications. I thought my primary concern was the depression. However, my diagnosis is schizoaffective disorder that is schizophrenia coupled with...Reactions0reactions
My Arsenal of Facts for Fighting StigmaLiving with schizophrenia can often feel like navigating through a world filled with misconceptions and stigma. If your experience is anything like mine, you frequently find yourself at odds with...Reactions0reactions
Health Insurance Pitfalls: Treatment Access and Affording MedicationNowadays, employers with small staff are not required to provide health insurance, and independent contractors are just that – independent of the employer. State agencies are great at finding ways...Reactions0reactions
The Amazing Power of "Acting As If"I recently ran into someone who, frankly, is not my favorite person. Everything they say and do gets under my skin, and in the past I've responded with passive aggression...Reactions0reactions
Compassion Fatigue as a Peer SupporterSome of us may actually work in the field of mental health as either peer supporters or in another another capacity using our lived experience of a diagnosis of schizophrenia...Reactions0reactions
Signs of Relapse in SchizophreniaMore than half of people with schizophrenia will have a relapse within 4 years of their first episode. During a relapse, symptoms that were in remission come back or get...Reactions0reactions
Transitioning Back Into the WorkforceAfter taking a break from work to regroup and improve health I decided to go back to work. I've taken a step back from work to enhance my recovery efforts...Reactions0reactions
My Schizo-versary: How I Reclaimed a Day That Changed My LifeFive years ago this week, I was smoking a cigarette outside a Panera Bread when I finally summoned the courage to Google 4 words that would change my life forever...Reactions0reactions
Schizophrenia vs. Schizoaffective DisorderSchizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder are both mental health conditions. They can cause similar symptoms and may have similar treatments. They also can both be challenging to diagnose. However, schizophrenia and...Reactions0reactions
Why Privacy Laws MatterAs a caregiver, I've been frustrated by HIPAA and other privacy policies that kept me in the dark when my loved ones were in crisis. It seemed ridiculous for physicians...Reactions0reactions
I'm Solid In My Recovery... Why Am I Feeling Guilty?What is "survivor's guilt"? This can apply to anyone who comes in contact with someone who may be struggling, especially when we are in a better place – whether it's...Reactions0reactions
The Emotional Toll of Being on Disability BenefitsThe first time I ever thought of my worth in terms of a dollar amount was the first time I set foot in my county's early psychosis center. As my...Reactions0reactions
Communicating With Your Loved One During PsychosisI've always thought of myself as a good listener. It's my nature to be curious about others and to practice techniques that make them feel heard, like asking clarifying questions...Reactions0reactions
