Topic Tuesday // Let's talk about Schizophrenia // Tues 25th May, 7:00-8:30PM AEST

[Mum1990]

Hi Sandi that is something that I spoke to him about again tonight specifically looking to build relationships and friendships with people other than his family, which he acknowledges he needs to do. I have tried to find social options for people with lived experience as this may feel safer/no judgement, however haven't found anything.  Any ideas would be gratefully received.

[Mellymead]

That is beautiful

[Mellymead]

Goodness very keen to hear ideas
Thank you

[Shaz51]

hello @Eden1919 , @Mellymead , @Mum1990 , @Schitzo , @greenpea 

@Daisydreamer, @Sandy1  this is really interesting to understand my cousin more and to elp others like my husband who is sure he has this 

[Mellymead]

My brain thinks Schizophrenia is a problem to solve and it uses every possible opportunity to try any scrap of information to progress towards a solution

[Jordan94]

Hi @Mellymead,

Thankyou for your question and sharing your experience  

CBT has been developed for psychosis (CBTp) and it is an evidence-based treatment that can be provided individually or in a group setting. I'm curious what ideas specifically would you like to explore?

[Lilaca]

For me, exercise is the best way to lose those thoughts, focus on the body and get healthy again. I used to be an adventurous hiker before this, but after I was fainting 2-3 times a week. I manage to get back in shape by going to the gym, training and swimming. I have no thoughts, no voices in my head while exercising. 

There is a free 6 hour short course on schizophrenia for those who are keen to know more about the illness: https://www.coursera.org/learn/schizophrenia

[Sandy1]

Hi @Eden1919,

I take my medication the same time each night so I remember to take it. And at night so I sleep off the worst of the side effects.

I am wary of their potential side effects but choose to take them because I don't want to flirt with my sanity. Medication works for me. It's a personal thing.

[Daisydreamer]

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@Sandy1 wrote:

• I went from Sandy 'schizophrenia' to Sandy poet and it was transformative for me. To have a more positive label was an important station along my way. A creative life for me has been crucial to understanding and mitigating the effects of living with schizophrenia.

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It sounds like you have been on a journey to redefine who you are, and that although Schizophrenia is a part of your life, it's not your identity. How we see ourselves and our identity is such a powerful thing 

Creativity is such a great form of expression, certainly something many people here on the forums share too

[Daisydreamer]

Q6: What are some of the key things that contribute to recovery?