Inside Schizophrenia

Headlines of Horror: Schizophrenia Portrayals in News Media

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0000

“Paranoid schizophrenic admits to attacking dog walker.” When we watch a horror movie, we know the “madman” on screen is a work of fiction. But when the nightly news leads with a diagnosis to explain a tragedy, the fear it creates is very real — and often permanent.Why does the media lead with schizophrenia only when the story involves violence, yet remain silent when it comes to stories of recovery, hope, and humanity?

In this hard-hitting episode, host Rachel Star Withers (who lives with schizophrenia) explores the Lead with Fear phenomenon — the dangerous journalistic trend of linking a diagnosis to a crime before the facts are even in — and why schizophrenia seems to have the worst PR team in the world.

Later in the show, we sit down with two media heavyweights who are using their platforms to overhaul how the world views mental health.:

Janet Yang, an Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning producer and former President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Frank Kosa, an Emmy-nominated documentary filmmaker for National Geographic, the History Channel, and A&E.

Listener Take-A-Ways:

why "paranoid schizophrenia" is an obsolete clinical term that journalists refuse to let go of
the startling statistic that fewer than 20% of news stories about schizophrenia include themes of recovery
practical ways you can hold news outlets accountable and promote stories of hope

Our guest, Frank Kosa, is an award-winning documentary producer-writer-director, and a journalist. He produced National Geographic’s “The Story of God with Morgan Freeman,” wrote the inaugural season of Travel Channel’s hit show “Booze Traveler,” produced the award-winning “The Revolutionary War,” a mini-series for A&E, “Christianity: The Second Millennium” and multiple shows of TV’s most engaging documentary series including “Life Without People,” “The Universe,” and “Game Changers.”

His shows have aired on The Science Channel, The History Channel, Discovery, A&E, TLC, Animal Planet, The Travel Channel, The Weather Channel, Lifetime, Bloomberg TV, HGTV, and National Geographic. His print journalism has appeared in The LA Times, USA Today, Sacramento Bee, The Christian Science Monitor, and numerous magazines. He has also worked for films and TV shows produced by Universal, Warner Bros., & Sony. He is Emmy-nominated, has won a Cable Ace and other awards, and strives to tell stories that deeply connect with audiences.

Our guest, Janet Yang, is an Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning Hollywood producer, former President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and has been named one of the “50 Most Powerful Women in Hollywood” by the Hollywood Reporter. Yang’s extensive film and television credits include “The Joy Luck Club,” “The People vs. Larry Flynt,” “The Weight of Water,” “Shanghai Calling,” “High Crimes,” “Zero Effect,” and “Over the Moon.” Yang began her career by running the first distribution company to market Chinese films into North America. She also brokered the reintroduction of American studio films to the Chinese marketplace after a decades-long hiatus. This, in turn, led to joining Steven Spielberg on the historic production of “Empire of the Sun.” This was followed by long-term partnership with multiple Academy-Award winning writer/director, Oliver Stone.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, (Link: ⁠www.rachelstarlive.com⁠) is an entertainer, international speaker, video producer, and schizophrenic. She has appeared on MTV’s Ridiculousness, TruTV, NBC’s America’s Got Talent, Marvel's Black Panther, TUBI’s #shockfight, Goliath: Playing with Reality, and is the host of the HealthLine podcast “⁠Inside Schizophrenia⁠”. She grew up seeing monsters, hearing people in the walls, and having intense urges to hurt herself.

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS⁠ )

Our cohost, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available ⁠directly from the author.⁠

He also hosts the twice Webby honored podcast, ⁠Inside Bipolar⁠, with Dr. Nicole Washington.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, ⁠gabehoward.com⁠.

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What Do I Say? Communication Strategies for Schizophrenia

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0000

“How do I talk to my loved one?” It is the most frequent question the show receives. In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers (who lives with schizophrenia) and co-host Gabe Howard dive deep into the nuances of communication, moving away from reactionary "crisis mode" toward intentional, empathetic connection. They explore why validating emotions and feelings — rather than schizophrenia symptoms — is the key to building trust and how to ask for permission before broaching difficult topics.

Later in the show, Gail Simmons, culinary expert and judge on Bravo's Top Chef, joins the conversation to share her personal story. Gail opens up about her brother’s schizophrenia diagnosis and how her family used the universal language of food and the dinner table to maintain their bond during challenging years.

Listeners will learn:

how to acknowledge someone's fear without confirming their delusions
why caregivers must prioritize their own mental health and boundaries to be effective supports
lessons from Gail Simmons on using hobbies, like cooking or trail running, to bridge the gap when words aren't enough

Whether you are a caregiver, a friend, or living with a diagnosis yourself, this episode offers a roadmap for turning difficult conversations into productive discussions through patience and perseverance.

Special thanks to Cobenfy Connections for connecting us with Gail Simmons. Cobenfy is a sponsor of this podcast and we appreciate them for their partnership and support.

Our guest, Gail Simmons, is a trained culinary expert, food writer, and dynamic television personality. Since the show’s inception in 2006, she has lent her expertise as permanent judge, and now executive producer, on Bravo’s Emmy- and James Beard Award-winning series “Top Chef.” Now entering its 23rd season, “Top Chef” is rated the #1 food show on cable television. From 2004 to 2019, Gail served as special projects director at FOOD & WINE. Gail’s first cookbook, “Bringing It Home: Favorite Recipes from a Life of Adventurous Eating,” was released by Grand Central Publishing in October 2017. Her first book, a memoir titled “Talking With My Mouth Full,” was published by Hyperion in February 2012. Gail’s third book, entitled “Guesting,” will be published in 2026. She is the co-founder of Bumble Pie Productions and lives in Brooklyn with her husband, Jeremy, and their two children.

COBENFY Connections is an initiative from Bristol Myers Squibb in partnership with culinary expert, TV host, and author Gail Simmons. The initiative aims to shift the narrative around schizophrenia, one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized mental illnesses, through honest conversation. Sharing her family’s experience and inviting others to do the same, Simmons emphasizes how connection and community can help people living with schizophrenia feel seen, supported, and hopeful, as well as the importance of finding the treatment that’s right for them. Listeners can learn more by visiting www.connections.bms.com.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, (Link: www.rachelstarlive.com) is an entertainer, international speaker, video producer, and schizophrenic. She has appeared on MTV’s Ridiculousness, TruTV, NBC’s America’s Got Talent, Marvel's Black Panther, TUBI’s #shockfight, Goliath: Playing with Reality, and is the host of the HealthLine podcast “Inside Schizophrenia”. She grew up seeing monsters, hearing people in the walls, and having intense urges to hurt herself.

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS )

Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

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Bonus: A Personal Interview with Our Host Who Lives with Schizophrenia

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0000

How does a woman with schizophrenia manage life as an entertainer, stuntwoman, and “Inside Schizophrenia” podcast host, all while managing a severe mental illness? In this bonus episode (that originally aired for the “Inside Mental Health” podcast series), Rachel Star Withers shares her intense and often shocking journey — from growing up believing her hallucinations were demons to undergoing an exorcism before finally receiving an accurate medical diagnosis.

She candidly discusses the stigma she faced and how she overcame it to become a thought leader in schizophrenia advocacy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in psychology, mental health advocacy, or learning more about Rachel’s “badass life” as a stunt performer in blockbuster movies like Marvel’s “Black Panther.”

Rachel’s story is a testament to resilience, and she opens up about what it truly means to live with schizophrenia while pursuing your passions and defying expectations. Hit play to learn more about this inspiring story of strength and survival and how you can help yourself — or your loved ones — do the same. Please Note:

“Hey listeners, you’re about to hear an interview with Rachel Star Withers, host of the “Inside Schizophrenia" podcast, who lives with schizophrenia. She originally appeared on our sister show, “Inside Mental Health.” And we wanted to share that conversation with you as a bonus episode. I hope you enjoy getting to know Rachel a little bit better.”

Rachel Star Withers creates videos documenting her schizophrenia and shares ways to manage it to let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written “Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids” and a tool for schizophrenics, “To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal.” Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

Gabe Howard lives with bipolar disorder and is a nationally recognized speaker and podcast host. He is the author of the book, Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations, available from Amazon; signed copies available directly from the author.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit gabehoward.com.

Thank you for listening, please share the show with everyone you know.

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Expressing Your Schizophrenia Journey

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Living with schizophrenia is traumatic — full stop. Hallucinations, delusions, hospitalizations, lost relationships, and stigma can fracture how you see yourself and the world. But how do you process all of that without being labeled dangerous, unstable, or misunderstood?

In this episode of “Inside Schizophrenia,” Rachel Star Withers (who lives with schizophrenia) and cohost Gabe Howard explore practical, safe ways to express your schizophrenia journey — without needing to be an artist, writer, or performer. From journaling (even if you hate it) to movement, storytelling, and simple word exercises, they break down how expression can support emotional regulation, restore personal agency, and help organize traumatic experiences.

Listeners will learn:

why you don’t need artistic talent to benefit from expressive outlets

how storytelling helps organize traumatic memories into something manageable

what caregivers and loved ones should know about encouraging safe expression

Later, Rachel is joined by singer, songwriter, and poet Susan Wojnar, who shares her powerful lived experience with late-onset schizophrenia and how creativity both challenged and supported her recovery. Susan discusses hearing voices within music, reclaiming her guitar from psychosis, and why sharing her story through poetry helped her — and others — feel less alone. Susan’s new book, "White Darkness: Poetic Tales of the Schizophrenic Experience," is available now.

This episode isn’t about creating masterpieces. It’s about finding your way to release what you’ve been carrying and take control of your narrative.

With 25 years of lived experience with schizophrenia, Susan Wojnar’s book debut transcends the traditional boundaries of memoir, diagnosis, and verse to offer readers a profoundly human window into the experience of psychosis. With raw honesty, stark imagery, and a lyrical voice that sings even in silence, “White Darkness” dares readers — caregivers, mental health professionals, those who struggle with mental health issues, and everyday people alike — to step inside a fragmented yet beautifully defiant world.

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS )

Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

He also hosts the twice Webby honored podcast, Inside Bipolar, with Dr. Nicole Washington.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

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Redefining Recovery in Schizophrenia

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0000

For decades, the narrative surrounding schizophrenia has focused almost exclusively on controlling symptoms. But with no cure, can someone actually get better? Recovery in the context of schizophrenia isn’t about the absence of symptoms. It’s a deeply personal process — one that centers on restoring hope, self-determination, and a meaningful life, even when hallucinations, delusions, and setbacks continue to exist.

In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers, who lives openly with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard explore what recovery really means for people with serious mental illness. From clinical symptom remission and functional abilities to redefining purpose and identity, they unpack how recovery can look — and why it rarely fits the “back to normal” expectation held by loved ones and society.

Later in the episode, Dr. Mark Ragins, who is a pioneer and leading voice in person-centered, recovery-based psychiatry, joins the conversation.

Listener takeaways

why people — not illness — should be at the center of treatment
how recovery can include setbacks and still be real progress
how the psychosis triangle explains both breakdown and healing
how relationships can stabilize psychosis even when symptoms persist

Listen now as this episode challenges outdated ideas of recovery, validating lived experience and showing how a meaningful life is possible with schizophrenia, symptoms and all.

Our guest, Mark Ragins, MD, has been a psychiatrist for 40 years, working in community mental health centers, as the Medical Director for 27 years at the Mental Health America Village in Long Beach, California, an award-winning model of recovery-based mental health services, as the students’ psychiatrist at Cal State Long Beach, and on street medicine teams working with homeless people on the streets throughout LA county. His book, “Journeys Beyond the Frontier: A Rebellious Guide to Psychosis and Other Extraordinary Experiences,” is based on true stories of working with some of the most underserved and difficult-to-engage people in our community. Countless people have come to experience the work being done at the Village firsthand and Mark has given hundreds of presentations and lectures to wide-ranging audiences nationally and internationally. He is one of the true pioneers and leaders of person-centered, recovery-based psychiatry. Many of his writings are posted online at markragins.com, including his short book A Road to Recovery. He was also featured in Steve Lopez’s book The Soloist. Over the years, Mark has won a number of awards, including from the American Psychiatric Association, the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association, NAMI, and Mental Health Advocacy Services.

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS )

Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

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Inside Your First Psych Evaluation for Schizophrenia

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Many people manage symptoms of serious mental illness but hesitate to seek help. Fear, embarrassment, and uncertainty about what actually happens during a psychological assessment can keep someone from taking that crucial first step.

In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers (who lives with schizophrenia) undergoes an initial psych evaluation with psychologist Dr. Aaron Brinen to show you exactly what the process looks like for someone experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia. Their conversation demystifies the assessment, removes fear from the unknown, and helps you understand what professionals are really looking for.

Dr. Aaron P. Brinen, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in private practice who uses evidence-based treatments to support people living with serious mental health conditions. He is the co-developer of Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy (CT-R) and trains clinicians worldwide. Dr. Brinen is also the author of the new book Living Well With Psychosis.

Our guest, Dr. Aaron P. Brinen, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in private practice, where he employs evidence-based treatments to help people recover from serious mental health conditions. He is also Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. Brinen is a co-developer of recovery-oriented cognitive therapy (CT-R), and has been active in adapting CT-R for different settings and training therapists from around the world.

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS )

Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

He also hosts the twice Webby honored podcast, Inside Bipolar, with Dr. Nicole Washington.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AI Therapy and Schizophrenia: What’s Possible (and What’s Not)

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0000

The integration of artificial intelligence, AI, in mental healthcare holds promise for enhancing treatments, diagnosing, personalizing care, and more. An emerging new use of AI is in therapy, but is it ready for schizophrenia?

In today’s episode, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard are going to explore the benefits and dangers of AI therapy in schizophrenia care.

Our guest is Dr. Nick Haber. Dr. Haber is a researcher and assistant professor at the Stanford Graduate School of Education. His research group develops artificial intelligence systems meant to mimic and model the ways that people learn in early life, exploring their environments through play, social interaction, and curiosity. He is the senior author of a new study about exploring the dangers of AI in mental healthcare.

Our guest, Nick Haber, is an Assistant Professor at the Stanford Graduate School of Education, and by courtesy, Computer Science. After receiving his PhD in mathematics on Partial Differential Equation theory, he worked on Sension, a company that applied computer vision to online education. He then co-founded the Autism Glass Project at Stanford, a research effort that employs wearable technology and computer vision in a tool for children with autism. Aside from such work on learning and therapeutic tools, he and his research group develop artificial intelligence systems meant to mimic and model the ways people learn early in life, exploring their environments through play, social interaction, and curiosity.

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS )

Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

He also hosts the twice Webby honored podcast, Inside Bipolar, with Dr. Nicole Washington.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Please share this episode and podcast with anyone who could benefit. Thank you!

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Bonus: When You Don’t Know You’re Sick: Understanding Anosognosia

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 10:15:00 -0000

What if you were certain you were perfectly healthy — but everyone around you insisted you had schizophrenia? This may not be denial; it could be anosognosia — a neurological symptom that prevents people from recognizing they have a mental illness.

In this special bonus episode, host Rachel Star Withers, who lives with schizophrenia, sits down with Dr. Xavier Amador, world-renowned psychologist and founder of the LEAP Institute, to unravel one of the most misunderstood symptoms in psychiatry.

Dr. Amador, author of the bestselling book “I Am Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help!,” shares the science behind anosognosia, why logic and education often fail, and how empathy and connection can bridge the gap between awareness and treatment. Drawing from his own family’s experience, Dr. Amador introduces the LEAP method (Listen, Empathize, Agree, Partner) — a revolutionary communication strategy proven to help loved ones accept treatment, even when they don’t believe they’re ill.

Listen and learn:

the brain science behind why some people can’t recognize their own illness
how to tell the difference between denial and anosognosia
why love and empathy — not confrontation — are the keys to connection
practical steps for families to rebuild trust and encourage treatment

This episode offers understanding, hope, and tools for anyone supporting a loved one living with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or other serious mental illnesses.

Our guest, Dr. Xavier Amador, Founder and President of the LEAP Institute, is a world-renowned clinical psychologist, forensic expert, and author of 9 books, including the bestseller “I Am Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help!” His extensive work, books, and clinical research in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses have been translated into 30 languages. Additionally, he has authored over 130 peer-reviewed scientific papers and has contributed his expertise to over 80 death penalty cases. He is also a family caregiver of two close relatives with schizophrenia and another with bipolar disorder.

Dr. Amador has trained tens of thousands of professionals and families on LEAP® (Listen-Empathize-Agree-Partner), a communication approach that creates trusting relationships with people who have serious mental illness and anosognosia.

www.leapinstitute.org

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS )

Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

He also hosts the twice Webby honored podcast, Inside Bipolar, with Dr. Nicole Washington.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Childhood Schizophrenia: Controversy and What Parents Should Know

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Childhood schizophrenia is one of the rarest — and most controversial — diagnoses in psychiatry. In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers (who lives with schizophrenia) and co-host Gabe Howard, joined by board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington, explore the complexities of diagnosing schizophrenia in children and teens.

Together, they unpack the challenges of distinguishing symptoms from typical childhood imagination, the life-altering implications of early treatment, and the risks of misdiagnosis with conditions like autism, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. Rachel also shares her own childhood experiences with hallucinations, offering a rare personal perspective on what it’s like to grow up with symptoms that may go unnoticed for years.

Takeaways for listeners:

why diagnosing schizophrenia in children is so complicated — and controversial
how to tell the difference between usual childhood behavior and red flags
the risks of misdiagnosis and overmedication
what parents and clinicians should consider before starting treatment
why early intervention can make all the difference — but also carries risks

Whether you’re a parent, mental health professional, or simply curious, this episode sheds light on the difficult realities and unanswered questions surrounding childhood schizophrenia.

Our guest, a highly respected physician in her field, Dr. Nicole Bernard Washington is a board certified Psychiatrist, speaker, author, and consultant who has always had an affinity towards working with populations who aren’t typically consumers of mental health services. As Chief Medical Officer and founder of Elocin Psychiatric Services, she has become a staunch advocate for high level professionals who are dealing with untreated mental health issues or general occupational stressors.
Dr. Nicole also co-hosts Healthline Media's Inside Bipolar podcast with Gabe Howard.

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS )

Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

He also hosts the twice Webby honored podcast, Inside Bipolar, with Dr. Nicole Washington.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dealing with the Trauma of Schizophrenia

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0000

The experiences of living with schizophrenia can be traumatic: hospitalizations, treatments, psychotic episodes. Even though the prevalence of comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in people with psychosis varies from 11% to 52%, treatment for traumatic experiences is rarely prescribed to people with schizophrenia.

In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss managing the trauma of living with schizophrenia and why it’s important. Our hosts welcome guest expert Dr. Hector Rodriguez, who is trained in psychiatry, trauma-informed care, and neuroimaging. He blends neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and lifestyle interventions to help people strengthen their minds and reclaim their power.

Our guest, Dr. Hector Rodriguez, is trained in psychiatry, trauma-informed care, and neuroimaging. He blends neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and lifestyle interventions to help people strengthen their minds and reclaim their power.

As the founder of The White Butterfly Psychiatry & Wellness, Dr. Hector works with individuals from all walks of life — with a special passion for those society has overlooked, marginalized, or written off.

Whether in the clinic, on stage, or behind a microphone, Dr. Hector’s mission is to challenge the status quo of mental health and give people the tools to own their minds — instead of being owned by them.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, (Link: www.rachelstarlive.com) is an entertainer, international speaker, video producer, and schizophrenic. She has appeared on MTV’s Ridiculousness, TruTV, NBC’s America’s Got Talent, Marvel's Black Panther, TUBI’s #shockfight, Goliath: Playing with Reality, and is the host of the Healthline podcast “Inside Schizophrenia”. She grew up seeing monsters, hearing people in the walls, and having intense urges to hurt herself.

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS )

Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

He also hosts the twice Webby honored podcast, Inside Bipolar, with Dr. Nicole Washington.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Thank you for listening and please share widely!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonus: What Schizophrenia Hallucinations Really Feel Like

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0000

For individuals living with schizophrenia, the world can be populated by voices, visions, or other sensory experiences that are intensely real yet imperceptible to others. These hallucinations, which are a defining feature of schizophrenia, are not mere figments of imagination but rather vivid, often distressing, and deeply influential aspects of their daily reality.

Today’s exploration aims to shed light on the phenomenon of hallucinations in schizophrenia, going beyond a diagnostic perspective to consider the actual experience, and the profound impact on an individual's sense of self and connection to the world around them. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and guest Christopher Grant have a real, raw discussion about what experiencing schizophrenia hallucinations is like.

“By the time I was in university, I started hearing whispering in the vents of my apartment. Then it suddenly became more focused. Like Command, go take a walk right now or this will happen to you. It continued on and it intensified all the way until as recently as 2022 I've had a lot of ups and downs. I've had a lot of moments where I hit rock bottom personally and then had to find a way to swim back up from that.” — Christopher Grant

“We would have classically called it spirits. My grandfather, before he died, when he heard that I was going through the symptoms of schizophrenia, he said, there's no word for it in Mi'kmaq. They just would have said, you're going through a test of the spirits. You’re going on this experience where you have to, learn yourself, learn your strengths, learn your boundaries, and don't give up no matter how turbulent it gets.” — Christopher Grant

Our Guest, Christopher Grant, is a Mi’gmaw filmmaker from Pabineau First Nation, New Brunswick. Inspired by the intense absurdity of life and death, Chris animates to express the humour and terror of existence. He has worked with the NFB’s Hothouse project, and his work has been exhibited at galleries, museums and film festivals internationally. He is also known for his role on TikTok as XORADMAGICAL, where he creates art and answers questions all relating to his experiences with schizophrenia in daily life.

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS )

Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Age and Gender Affect Schizophrenia Symptoms

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0000

Schizophrenia may develop in people of all ages, and the early signs of the disorder vary greatly from person to person. While the symptoms are the same, the presentation of them can change due to age of onset, gender, and severity.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore how the early signs of schizophrenia can present differently and specific behaviors to watch for. Joining them is Dr. Gus Alva, a distinguished fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Geriatrics.

As an author and coauthor, Dr. Alva's work has been published in peer-reviewed medical journals, including the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and the Journal of the American Psychiatric Association. He has been featured on numerous media outlets and has served as an expert guest in various television programs, such as CNN News.

About Our Guest & Hosts

Our guest, Dr. Gus Alva, is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He is also Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Geriatrics. He completed his residency training at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center in the Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, where he served as chief resident during his final year of residency.

He also served as an associate professor and deputy director in the department of psychiatry at U.C. Irvine Medical Center, and he is currently serving as an assistant professor at U.C. Riverside Medical School, Department of Neuroscience.

As author or co-author, his work has been published in peer-reviewed medical journals, including the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, The Journal of the American Psychiatric Association, and Clinics in Geriatric Medicine. He has published numerous articles and presented at national and international meetings and conferences. He was the recipient of the First Annual Senior Care Humanitarian Award as Outstanding Physician in Dementia Care and the Physician’s Recognition Award by the American Medical Association.

He has been featured in numerous media outlets and has served as an expert guest in various television programs, such as CNN News, Inside OC, Salud Es Vida, Despierta America, The Morning Blend, Healthy Body, Healthy Mind.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, (Link: www.rachelstarlive.com) is an entertainer, international speaker, video producer, and schizophrenic. She has appeared on MTV’s Ridiculousness, TruTV, NBC’s America’s Got Talent, Marvel's Black Panther, TUBI’s #shockfight, Goliath: Playing with Reality, and is the host of the Healthline podcast “Inside Schizophrenia”. She grew up seeing monsters, hearing people in the walls, and having intense urges to hurt herself.

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS )

Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

Our cohost, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

He also hosts the twice Webby honored podcast, Inside Bipolar, with Dr. Nicole Washington.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

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Bonus: The Basics of Schizophrenia Featuring Dr. Derin Cobia

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0000

“Schizophrenia” is a scary word. A scary word that 1% of the population manages. Movies and TV shows have long created stigma around those with schizophrenia. But how do you stop fear?

With knowledge.

On a special bonus episode of the Inside Schizophrenia podcast, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, sits down with Dr. Derin Cobia to break down the symptoms of schizophrenia, current treatments, and what is on the horizon of schizophrenia research.

Our guest, Dr. Derin Cobia, is a neuropsychologist and neuroscientist with particular interest in utilizing neuroimaging techniques to study how changes in brain structure influence cognition and behavior. He is also a professor at Brigham Young University.

Dr. Cobia's laboratory is focused on the implementation of computational anatomy tools to study neuropsychiatric diseases, particularly schizophrenia. His interests are in the clinical and biological heterogeneity that exists in schizophrenia by taking a cognitive neuroscience perspective. His work has involved linking cognitive and neurobiological characteristics to important clinical dimensions of the illness.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.
To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.co m.

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Understanding Psychosis for Loved Ones and Caregivers

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0000

Psychosis is a state of impaired reality which may include hallucinations and delusions. Experiencing psychosis can impair your functioning and have a negative effect on various aspects of your daily life, such as work, school, and the ability to maintain relationships. Being in a state of psychosis can be extremely frightening and confusing. Many times, it can be difficult for loved ones, caregivers, and even medical professionals to understand what it's like to experience psychosis.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss what psychosis is like and how you can help someone who is experiencing psychosis in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Aaron Brinen joins as the guest. Dr. Brinen is the co-developer of recovery-oriented cognitive therapy (CT-R), and has been active in adapting CT-R for different settings and training therapists from around the world. He also has a new book out, “Living Well with Psychosis.”

Our guest, Dr. Aaron P. Brinen, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in private practice, where he employs evidence-based treatments to help people recover from serious mental health conditions. He is also Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. Brinen is a co-developer of recovery-oriented cognitive therapy (CT-R), and has been active in adapting CT-R for different settings and training therapists from around the world.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.co m.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

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Advocacy for Schizophrenia and Serious Mental Illnesses

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0000

The story of schizophrenia has too often been told through a lens of fear and misunderstanding. But that’s changing. Thanks to relentless advocates, awareness campaigns, and policy reform, stigma is being challenged and access to care is improving. But how do we join this fight? What does real advocacy look like — and where do we even begin?

In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers, who lives with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard share their own advocacy journeys and break down the many ways you can make a difference.

Joining them is Dr. Tracy Hicks, a doctor of nursing practice and dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. With years of hands-on experience pushing for mental health reform, Dr. Hicks offers insight into what effective advocacy really takes — from the clinic to the capitol.

Guest Information:

Dr. Tracy Hicks, MBA, APRN, FNP- BC, PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP, FIAAN, FAANP

Doctor of Nursing Practice, Dual Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Founder and CEO, Director of Clinical Services

Founder and CEO of C-Trilogy, Dr. Hicks has been an advocate in the mental health community for many years as well as actively involved in attempts to make changes in legislation to break down barriers to care.

C-Trilogy Comprehensive clinical care was established by Dr. Tracy Hicks as a for-profit entity in 2015, and in 2020 the Non-profit sector C-Trilogy Outreach was founded to answer the needs of the community during and after the pandemic.

Dr. Hicks is an experienced speaker with several appearances and presentations across the country, primarily in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB), Social Determinants of Health (SDoH), Emotional Intelligence (EI), Leadership, and substance use disorder treatment. She also serves as an advisor, consultant, and speaker in the pharmaceutical industry. Moreover, she is certified in addictions nursing and was inducted into the Fellows of the International Academy of Addiction Nurses in 2019 and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners in 2021.

She is a clinic owner and non-profit founder. She serves as Vice President of Texas Nurse Practitioners. She believes that “restricted NP practice anywhere is restricted access to care everywhere.”

https://www.ctrilogyoutreach.org

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.co m.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

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Why “Just Take Your Meds” Isn’t So Simple: Schizophrenia and the Med Adherence Dilemma

Wed, 21 May 2025 04:00:00 -0000

Up to 70% of people with schizophrenia don’t take their medication as prescribed. This nonadherence is tied to higher risks of psychosis, relapse, ongoing symptoms, and even suicide attempts. So why do so many people with schizophrenia struggle to stay on their meds — despite such serious consequences? And what can actually be done about it?

In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers — who lives with schizophrenia — and co-host Gabe Howard explore the complicated reality behind medication adherence. Rachel shares her own experiences with skipping or stopping meds, shedding light on the emotional and psychological challenges that aren’t often discussed.

They’re joined by Dr. Alberto Augsten, a toxicologist and psychopharmacologist who consults with pharmaceutical companies and helps shape best-practice guidelines for psychiatric medications. Dr. Augsten brings expert insight into how treatment can be improved and what steps can be taken to support long-term recovery. Listen now to learn more!

Our guest, Dr. Alberto Augsten, is a board certified toxicologist and psychopharmacologist. He is a consultant and expert witness specializing in psychopharmacology and clinical toxicology. Offering professional, impactful, and strategic consulting services, Dr. Augsten caters to legal, healthcare, and clinical practice development. His expertise encompasses many areas, ensuring clients receive top-notch guidance and insights.

Dr. Augsten specializes in providing tailored consulting services to assist in the development and optimization of clinical practice standards. His expertise covers many areas crucial for clinic development, allowing for standard of care reviews concerning those matters.

Dr. Augsten's influence extends beyond his clinical practice. He offers consultation and education services to pharmaceutical companies, contributing to the advancement of pharmaceutical knowledge and practices. Through his contributions, he is helping to improve patient outcomes and ensure the highest quality of care.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.co m.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

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Aging Parents of Adults with Schizophrenia: Challenges & Realities

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Many adults with schizophrenia rely on family members for daily support, often depending on parents in their 50s or 60s. As these parents grow older, they face mounting physical and emotional challenges — along with the pressing question of who will care for their child in the future.

In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers, who lives with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard dive into the unique struggles of aging parents caring for an adult child with schizophrenia.

Joining the conversation is Maye Jepson, a mother and caregiver to an adult son with schizophrenia. As a passionate advocate and a master's-level counselor, Maye offers invaluable insights on navigating the caregiving journey and preparing for the future.

Maye Jepson lives in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and, along with her husband Phil, is the caregiver/TRUST PARTNER and parent of Jason Jepson who has a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder. Remembering the uncertain days when her family first learned of her son's mental illness, Maye formed a Facebook support group — Parenting Thru Mental Illness — hoping to give and share resources for those who are newly entering the world of mental illness. In the past, Maye has volunteered with several international boards, including Stonecroft Ministries, Imago Dei Arts, and Global Partners in Hope. In addition to a Bachelor of Science degree, Maye has a master’s degree in counseling from Marshall University. Like her son, Maye volunteers with the Share Network where she shares her perspective on mental health as a parent, wanting desperately to help a young adult child maneuver the challenges of schizophrenia. She works as a Care Guide for Johnson and Johnson’s Connected by Hope program. Maye serves on the Advisory Board of Students with Psychosis because she believes in the importance of shedding light on mental health issues from the youngest to the oldest consumer. Maye and her son Jason were Finalists for the Social Health Network’s Best Team award, and they were the recipients of the Students with Psychosis Family Advocacy Award.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

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The Top Myths of Schizophrenia

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental illness, and misinformation and stigma surrounding the condition are still prevalent in our societies. The stereotypes and the myths of schizophrenia create challenges for people with diagnosed schizophrenia, but also for healthcare workers, family members, and caretakers.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard break down the top myths surrounding schizophrenia. Remember, just because society believes that it’s true doesn’t mean it is.

Guest Psychiatrist Dr. Richard W. Miller joins to discuss the myths he is confronted with daily working in the mental health field.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our Guest, Dr. Richard (Rick) W. Miller, is a psychiatrist in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including South County Hospital and Landmark Medical Center. He received his medical degree from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and has been in practice for 14 years.

Our Host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

Our Host, Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

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Sensory Overload and Schizophrenia: What You Need to Know

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Everyone has felt overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or strong smells — but for people with schizophrenia, sensory overload can be constant and intense. Sensory processing dysfunction can make everyday sights, sounds, and touches feel overwhelming, leading to a phenomenon called “sensory flooding.” It can also make it harder to filter out background noise, identify sensory sources, and focus on tasks — sometimes even contributing to symptoms of psychosis like hallucinations and delusions.

Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore how schizophrenia affects the senses and what this means for daily life. They’re joined by Dr. Ray Kotwicki, a psychiatrist and Chief Medical Officer at Hightop Health, who shares expert insights into the science behind sensory processing challenges and how to manage them.

Tune in for a fascinating look at the intersection of schizophrenia, sensory overload, and mental health!

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our guest, Dr. Ray Kotwicki, MD, MPH, DFAPA, is a psychiatrist and the Chief Medical Officer at Hightop Health.

Dr. Kotwicki trained as a Department of Energy Fellow and was a Medical Scholar at the University of Wisconsin Medical School. He completed post-graduate training at Harvard Medical School, the Boston University School of Medicine, and Emory University, where he earned a Master in Public Health degree in Health Policy and Management. He remains a full professor on the adjunctive faculty at both the Emory University School of Medicine as well as the Rollins School of Public Health. Kotwicki has presented more than 425 invited lectures, symposia, and seminars to thousands of attendees. He is recognized as a trusted national expert and renowned speaker on current issues in psychiatry, mental health, professionalism, and wellness.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

Out co-host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

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Schizophrenia in Young Adulthood: Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Strength

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000

The average age of onset for schizophrenia is in early adulthood, late teens to early 30s.

This is an intense stage of life for anyone — graduating high school, first time living on your own, entering the workforce, attending college, and figuring out what you want to do with your life and who you want to be.

Now add experiencing psychosis for the first time, hallucinations, delusions and losing touch with reality.

In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore the challenges of managing early adulthood with a schizophrenia diagnosis.

Why does schizophrenia emerge so often in this time frame, what experiences contribute to schizophrenia symptoms, and what are the challenges for young adults with schizophrenia?

Joining us later in the episode is Jules, a 22-year-old artist and college student studying marine biology at Columbia University who lives with schizophrenia.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our guest, 22-year-old Jules, is an accomplished artist and Columbia University freshman who began her studies this fall in both art and marine biology.

Jules’ love for art began when she was just 5 years old. She has continued to nurture this deep passion throughout her life, honing her craft at The New School, and was commissioned by Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC to paint a feature mural.

But when Jules was in her early teens, she first started experiencing hallucinations. She was afraid to tell anyone what she was experiencing and would try to physically fight her hallucinations. She eventually was admitted to a treatment facility for care and received a schizophrenia diagnosis. Today, Jules is doing well, although she continues to experience symptoms.

Throughout her journey with schizophrenia, Jules has found her art to be a powerful tool to express how her condition impacts her. She incorporates depictions of the eels and lemons she sees in her hallucinations into her work as a way of illustrating her experience with schizophrenia. Art has become Jules’ coping mechanism, and she credits her creativity partly to her condition.

Jules is hoping to host an art show next year to showcase her latest projects, in addition to the Mount Sinai mural she’ll be busy working on!

In partnership with the Live Your PosSCZible campaign (an awareness program by Bristol Myers Squibb), Jules is sharing her story to inspire others who might be living with schizophrenia.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm.

Our co-host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

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Schizophrenia Resources in Rural Areas

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Approximately one-fifth of the U.S. population lives in a rural area, and about one-fifth of those living in rural areas, or about 6.5 million individuals, have a mental illness. People living in rural areas have a more difficult time getting proper diagnoses and treatment for serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia. This is due to multiple factors, including a lack of healthcare providers, costs, and social stigmas surrounding schizophrenia in these areas.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss the challenges and solutions about access to schizophrenia treatment in rural areas in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia.

Guest Tarrah Holliday, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience working with people in rural America who live with schizophrenia and helping rural populations get access to care, joins to share her expertise.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our guest, Tarrah Holliday, based in Atlantic, IA, is a Masters-prepared ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, providing services to approximately 2,400 patients. She works with two crisis stabilization centers, four residential substance abuse treatment centers and 17 mental health care facilities. She has extensive experience working with people in rural America who live with SMI, advocating for a population that is often overlooked and underrepresented. Her professional goal is to reframe the conversation from mental illness to brain health to help patients increase acceptance in seeking treatment.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

Our co-host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

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Cognitive Deficits in Schizophrenia

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Cognitive deficits are a core feature of schizophrenia and account for much of the impaired functioning associated with this disorder. What are the cognitive deficits associated with schizophrenia? When do they start? Do they ever stop? And does cognitive decline continue throughout our lives? And most importantly, how do we treat these cognitive deficits?

In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers and co-host Gabe Howard discuss how the cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia impact people’s lives. Rachel opens up about her ongoing struggles and fears over her cognitive decline.

Guest Dr. Derin Cobia, a clinical neuropsychologist and associate professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University, joins to share the research his lab is doing on how changes in brain structure influence cognition and behavior in schizophrenia.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

Our guest, Dr. Derin Cobia, is a clinical neuropsychologist and Associate Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Brigham Young University. Currently, he is Director of the BYU MRI Research Facility and directs the Brain Imaging and Behavior Lab. Broadly, his research interests include using structural neuroimaging to study how changes in brain structure influence cognition and clinical behavior in psychosis-spectrum and neurodegenerative disorders.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

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Finding Hope with a Schizophrenia Diagnosis

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Hope is a crucial element that can significantly influence recovery for people with schizophrenia. It offers a pathway to resilience, empowerment, and a fulfilling life.

However, schizophrenia is a disabling psychiatric condition that impacts 1% of people worldwide and ranks among the top ten global causes of disability. It can be difficult to remain hopeful with statistics like that.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore how to find hope with a schizophrenia diagnosis in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia.

Our guest, Christopher Grant, a Mi'gmaw filmmaker and artist who lives with schizophrenia, joins. His work has been exhibited in galleries, museums, and film festivals internationally. He is also known on TikTok as XO Rad Magical, where he has over 1.5 million followers. There, he has created schizophrenia simulators of what he experiences.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

Christopher Grant is a Mi’gmaw filmmaker from Pabineau First Nation, New Brunswick. Inspired by the intense absurdity of life and death, Chris animates to express the humor and terror of existence. He has worked with the NFB’s Hothouse project, and his work has been exhibited at galleries, museums, and film festivals internationally. He is also known for his role on TikTok as XORADMAGICAL, where he creates art and answers questions relating to his experiences with schizophrenia in daily life.

https://linktr.ee/xoradmagical

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

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Understanding Anosognosia (Lack of Awareness) in Schizophrenia

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

A common symptom of schizophrenia is anosognosia. Anosognosia is when a person is unaware that they have mental health condition or cannot perceive their condition accurately. It is believed that between 50% to 98% of people with schizophrenia have some form of anosognosia.

Is anosognosia that common? Could it be confused with denial? And how can caregivers, family, and loved ones of people with schizophrenia help them gain awareness into the disorder?

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss the symptom of anosognosia and the popular way of treating it, the LEAP method, in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia.

Dr. Xavier Amador, creator of the LEAP method, world renowned clinical psychologist, and forensic expert joins in a conversation with Rachel on how caregivers and loved ones can use the LEAP method to help those in their lives struggling with schizophrenia symptoms.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD and THC gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

Our guest, Dr. Xavier Amador, Founder and President of the LEAP Institute, is a world-renowned clinical psychologist, forensic expert, and author of 9 books, including the bestseller “I Am Not Sick I Don’t Need Help!” His extensive work, books, and clinical research in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses have been translated into 30 languages. Additionally, he has authored over 130 peer-reviewed scientific papers and has contributed his expertise to over 80 death penalty cases. He is also a family caregiver of two close relatives with schizophrenia and another with bipolar disorder.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

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Innovations in Schizophrenia Treatment

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Since the 1950s, the go-to treatment for schizophrenia has been oral antipsychotics. However, the landscape of schizophrenia treatment is changing and evolving, from advancements in antipsychotic long-acting injections to promising new treatments targeting muscarinic receptors to different types of neuromodulation stimuli of the brain, and even new theories connecting schizophrenia to other diseases like chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore the innovations in schizophrenia treatment in this episode of “Inside Schizophrenia.” Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Desiree Matthews, who is at the forefront of helping people with treatment-resistant depression and schizophrenia, joins as a guest to discuss some of the current and upcoming treatments.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our guest, Desiree Matthews, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health treatment, providing top-tier care for those living with severe and persistent mental illness. Desiree is the founder and clinical director of Different Mental Health Program (MHP), which provides a virtual, personalized, and holistic approach to mental health care for patients in North Carolina. In addition to clinical practice, she serves as a member of the steering committee for US Psych Congress and has served faculty appointments with US Psych Congress, Psych Elevate, NP Institute, and with NEI. She is passionate about bringing practical future-focused healthcare education to healthcare providers to improve their patient outcomes.

Rachel Star Withers creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

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What is ‘Schizoposting’ and Why it’s Dangerous

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

“Schizoposting” is a growing internet trend that involves posting violent images, videos, text posts, and memes as if the creator is having a mental breakdown. It has become associated with hate movements, and people are using schizoposting as a medium to desensitize and encourage others to violent impulses and unpredictable behavior.

In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers, who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard explore the online world of schizoposting and how this affects people diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Guest Dr. Jim Johansson, who has been studying schizoposting and its growth on alt-right internet platforms, joins for a discussion.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode page.

Our guest, Dr. Jim Johansson, is a nursing clinical instructor (mental health) and a registered nurse based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. His program of research focuses on the intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system. He has presented his work across Canada and internationally.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

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Does Language Matter When Discussing Schizophrenia and Psychosis?

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

How do you refer to a person who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia?

“Person with schizophrenia” or “schizophrenic?” What about other words, for example, “crazy, insane, psycho, or schizo?” The words we use carry meaning and stigma but also information and identity.

Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore person-first language versus condition-first language when discussing people with schizophrenia.

NAMI’s (National Alliance on Mental Illness) chief medical officer, Dr. Ken Duckworth, joins to introduce a schizophrenia and psychosis lexicon guide to assist in conversations about schizophrenia.

Our guest, Ken Duckworth’s, journey into psychiatry started when he was a boy growing up with a dad who experienced severe bipolar disorder. His father was loving, kind, and periodically quite ill, hospitalized for months at a time. Ken became a psychiatrist, in part, to help his father. He serves as the chief medical officer for NAMI and feels fortunate to be a part of this community.

Ken recently authored NAMI’s first book, “You Are Not Alone: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Mental Health ― With Advice from Experts and Wisdom from Real People and Families.” Written with authority and compassion, the book is an essential resource for people and families seeking expert guidance on diagnosis, treatment and recovery. It features inspiring true stories from real people in their own words.

Ken is double-board certified in adult and child/adolescent psychiatry and has completed a forensic psychiatry fellowship.

Schizophrenia & Psychosis Guide: Care, Advocacy, Engagement:

https://www.nami.org/Support-Education/Publications-Reports/Guides/Schizophrenia-Psychosis-Guide-Care-Advocacy-Engagement/

Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dealing with Weight Gain in Schizophrenia

Wed, 15 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

People with schizophrenia are at a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes than the general population. Diabetes is seen in 1 in 5 people with schizophrenia. Metabolic syndrome occurs in 1 in 3 people with schizophrenia.

What is causing these physical illnesses in people with schizophrenia? Is this just due to our lifestyle factors? How significant a role does medication for schizophrenia play in developing these illnesses? And how can we manage to stay physically healthy with schizophrenia?

Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard share their struggles with weight issues and connections to mental disorders.

Guest Fran Hinson, a registered nurse, personal trainer, and behavior modification specialist, joins us. She works with special populations to help create small, sustainable habits inside and outside the gym.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Fran Hinson is passionate about helping people step into their new lives. She has worked in the health and fitness industry for 15 years as a registered nurse, an ACE-certified personal trainer, and a group fitness instructor. She holds a certification as a Behavior Modification Specialist. Fran uses these tools to help her clients make small, sustainable habits inside and outside the gym. You will not become healthier overnight. It happens one small, sustainable step after another.

“My style is assessment, small changes, execution, and repetition. I will work with you to make small changes to your daily routine, supporting your progress and keeping you accountable along the way.” — Fran Hinson

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Involuntary Treatment Options in Schizophrenia

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Treatment for schizophrenia is a tough journey for people with the illness but also for caregivers and loved ones. Due to cognitive symptoms, hallucinations, and delusions, a person with schizophrenia may not be able to make decisions on treatment or take care of themselves.

When should caregivers step in to legally take control over a person with schizophrenia?

What are the types of involuntary treatment?

What are the other options available to people with schizophrenia and caregivers?

Host Rachel Star Withers, a person with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss involuntary treatment options in schizophrenia and the moral issues around forcing treatment on a person.

Guest Nicole Drapeau Gillen joins the discussion. Nicole was an IT executive and chief marketing officer turned caregiver and the author of “Schizophrenia & Related Disorders: A Handbook for Caregivers.” Nicole recognized that caregivers like herself often find themselves thrust into this challenging, complex, and stressful situation with little guidance on how to help a loved one with a serious mental illness.

In this episode, Rachel speaks about psychiatric advance directives. You can find more information at the National Resource Center on Psychiatric Advance Directives at www.NRC-PAD.org.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our guest, Nicole Drapeau Gillen, is a caregiver and the author of “Schizophrenia & Related Disorders: A Handbook for Caregivers.”

Nicole began her journey as a caregiver in this world of schizophrenia in 2020 when her daughter became sick. After thrashing about for a few years, finding herself frustrated and desperate for information, she wrote the book on caregiving for someone with a serious mental illness.

In her book, “Schizophrenia & Related Disorders: A Handbook for Caregivers,” Nicole addresses a myriad of issues caregivers face, including:

• From the Beginning of the Journey: Treatment — medication primer, treatment primer, etc.; hospitals, case managers, and more; and doctors (working with, talking to, finding)

• Ongoing: Communication, definitions, family and friends; support groups — for yourself and your loved one; and creating your ongoing paper trail

• Could Happen Anytime: Housing/homelessness; navigating jail and police; and crisis — suicidal ideation, arrests, run away, etc.

• Getting The Right Support Setup: Legal — advanced directives; legal — power of attorney, conservatorship, guardianship; and financial — SSI, SSDI, other government services

• Long-term issues: Budgeting — estate planning, trusts and letter of intent; and transition to self support for your loved one

• And so much more!

As a caregiver, our journey is ever-evolving and fluid. No sooner do we get our loved one on a good path, then things take another twist and turn. This book aims to give you the fundamentals on how to help your loved one no matter where they are on their road to recovery. With clear steps and compassionate insights, you'll find a lifeline in your caregiving journey.

https://schizophrenia-caregiver.com/

Schizophrenia & Related Disorders: A Handbook for Caregivers

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How Suicide Intersects with Schizophrenia

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

People with schizophrenia have a 10% rate of suicide compared with the general population population’s 1.3% rate of suicide.

Suicide is the biggest reason for the decreased life expectancy of people with schizophrenia.

Around 40–79% of people with schizophrenia have reported having suicidal thoughts.

Why is the rate of suicide higher among people with schizophrenia?

Are there specific risk factors that have been identified for our population?

And most important, how can we prevent suicide and keep going?

Host Rachel Star Withers, who has schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss suicide in relation to schizophrenia in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. Rachel shares her chronic struggles with the desire to end her life and how she has learned to keep going.

Guest Tim “The Sack Man” from SackLifeOfficial joins to share his journey of finding an interesting way to cope with his depression and suicidal ideation through punching bag training. He now travels the country in a VW bus, providing free training for communities.

A warning about this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. It involves a frank discussion about the topic of suicide.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Today's guest, "Tim “The Sack Man” from www.sacklifeofficial.com:

My name is Tim The Sack Man, and punching bag training has allowed me to overcome clinical depression and suicidal ideation, come off medication, and out of therapy with approval from my doctors. I travel the country in a VW Bus with a punching bag attached, providing free training for communities, and I host a free virtual class every day. I donate a portion of the profits to The National Alliance on Mental Illness. I would like to create free public-access punching bags around the world. By following @sacklifeofficial, together we can leverage our numbers to advertising companies so the ads you see will fund free mental health care for all.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm.

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Community Involvement in Recovery with Schizophrenia

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0000

There is a huge gap in how people with schizophrenia are expected to recover and then integrate back into society. Many of us are in active treatment and managing symptoms. Now what? How do we function in life? How do we fit into society? We all want friends, to have a purpose, to belong.

These desires fall under community involvement. Integration into the community is recognized as an important component of recovery for those with severe mental illness. It is also one of our biggest challenges.

Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore different programs all over the world that work to assist people with schizophrenia to integrate into their local communities.

Faydra Aldridge, CEO of the British Columbia Schizophrenia Society and host of their podcast, “Look Again: Mental Illness Re-Examined,” joins and shares the programs and goals of the BCSS.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our guest, Faydra Aldridge’s career has spanned over twenty years in the fields of communications, stakeholder relations, and project management in both the private and public sectors. Before joining the BC Schizophrenia Society (BCSS) as the Chief Executive Officer in 2019, Faydra held a leadership role with one of the largest health research institutes in Canada where she oversaw the Stakeholder Relations portfolio. She has experience as a CBC Morning Show Producer and has held executive positions with national and international community health organizations. Faydra draws on this experience in her role as a host of the BCSS podcast “Look Again: Mental Illness Re-Examined.” She is honored to work with such a dedicated team devoted to increasing awareness about serious mental illness and supporting families across BC.

About the “Look Again: Mental Illness Re-Examined" Podcast:

Navigating and understanding serious mental illnesses can be complex — both for individuals living with the illness as well as their loved ones and community. Hearing firsthand stories can bring comfort in knowing we aren’t alone.

“Look Again: Mental Illness Re-Examined” is a resource to help expand your understanding of the many dimensions of mental illness — and you can go listen to the latest season right now!

This show covers it all. It dives deep into the 'big questions' that families can face during different stages of the mental illness journey, from recognizing initial symptoms to the pursuit of a diagnosis and the search for effective treatment. It shares personal stories from individuals living ‘close’ to schizophrenia or other serious mental illnesses, as well as insights from experienced researchers and medical professionals across the globe.

Recent episodes explore topics like social media's influence on mental illness stigma, first-episode psychosis intervention, using virtual reality to treat psychosis, the untold challenges of mental illness care, and tons more!

Learn more about serious mental illness - check out “Look Again: Mental Illness Re-Examined,” an original podcast from the BC Schizophrenia Society, available on your favorite podcast app.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

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Disturbing Thoughts in Schizophrenia

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Impulsive thoughts to harm yourself or others, confusing delusional thoughts, thoughts commanding you to do things — all of these are terrifying to experience. A breakdown in the thought process is a hallmark of schizophrenia. When does an intrusive thought become delusional and something a person might act upon? If a person has disturbing violent thoughts, are they dangerous?

Host Rachel Star Withers, who has schizophrenia, shares her personal struggles with disturbing, intrusive, violent thoughts. Rachel is joined by guest Kassie Love, who is a marriage and family therapist specializing in working with people having unusual thoughts or experiences.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio & Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Hosts

Therapist Kassie Love, MMFT/MPH

Hi there! My name is Kassie Love. In my line of work as a mental health provider, I’ve come to understand that what most people really want is to be heard and supported. Nobody wants to feel like they’re being judged or criticized, especially when they open up in therapy. My patients often tell me they appreciate my compassionate and relatable approach, which they find both valuable and effective. Learn more at www.kassielove.com.

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Grieving the Life You Lost Due to Schizophrenia

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Living with a diagnosis of schizophrenia means that you and those around you will experience multiple losses as you navigate the disorder. It can take away relationships, employment, education, performance, independence, and sense of self.

Will I keep getting worse?

What happens if I have another psychotic episode?

What will my life look like in 10 years?

What if I can’t take care of myself?

It’s normal to grieve the life you or a loved one lost to schizophrenia. But, what does that grief look like and how do you keep going?

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore grieving the life you lost due to schizophrenia in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia.

Guest Paulie VonEdWærd-Benjamin, owner of Earth Star, Heart Root, specializing in holistic, soulful, metaphysical self-healing, joins to share how their life has changed multiple times through living with schizophrenia and how they keep going.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio & Host Bios:

My name is Paul VonEdWærd-Benjamin. It is a great honor for us to have this opportunity to tell you a bit of our story so we can help people like ourself with mental conditions, illnesses, and diseases of the brain — and the mind.

We see our diagnoses as very good things. They helped set us on a path that was much easier to tread and see and feel toward who We are today. We are stronger because of the knowledge of our symptoms and suffering, not in spite of them. We’ve chosen not to ignore negativity nor pretend it doesn’t exist, but to make it something We and We alone perceive to be positive.

An example is when We hallucinate sights, sounds, and intentions (sometimes called “thought insertion”). In the past, these things would scare me. Examples: That person winked at me — why? The song on the radio is intended to convey some special meaning just for me — what is it? I heard a whisper that what I was just thinking about is a good idea — who said that?

Now, instead of fright born of surprise and confusion, We’ve trained ourself to see, listen, and pay attention to these things — and then let them go. Perhaps that person did wink, but they’re 50 feet away from me, we’re in a crowded room, they’re talking to other folks, and there’s a fan blowing on them. Perhaps that song resonates with me in a good way, helping give me perspective I haven’t had before. Perhaps someone did just whisper, but my mind heard what it wanted to — or maybe it was just the wind after all!

Get it out in the sunshine and let’s reveal our shadows together so we can *all* heal. That is the purpose We feel driven toward. And have some fun with it!

Our host, Rachel Star Withers creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm.

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Helping Caregivers Navigate Schizophrenia

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

When a mental health crisis hits, it can catch everyone off guard—the person experiencing the crisis and those around them. For many with schizophrenia, this is a person’s first psychotic episode. As a caregiver, friend, or loved one, how do you get help for them? And how does the system work?

Today, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard are discussing navigating schizophrenia as a caregiver. Their guest, Scott Joffrion, father of an adult son with schizoaffective disorder, also joins to share what he wishes he had known when starting this journey of navigating schizophrenia.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our guest, Scott Joffrion, is a father of a son with schizoaffective disorder.

“My personal mission is to give my loved ones the best possible recovery they can have and to help other families do the same for their loved ones. I want to make a meaningful impact in the region for awareness and education with outcome-based solutions to equip future caregivers.”

“My son is my best friend that has been through hell and back with me.”

www.nami.org

Host Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm.

Host Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

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LGBTQIA+ Community and Schizophrenia

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The LGBTQIA+ community and psychiatry have had a very troubled past, especially when it comes to schizophrenia. Some of the first theories for the causes of schizophrenia actually centered around bisexual desires. There were even theories that people living with schizophrenia were all asexual due to the negative symptoms of schizophrenia. And those are just two examples.

In this episode, we discuss LGBTQIA+ issues in relation to schizophrenia, what psychiatry got wrong, and what current studies are showing. We also hear directly from an openly transgender man who lives with schizophrenia.

We’re joined by guest Lucas Silveira, a Canadian vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter from Toronto. He was the frontman of The Cliks, and is credited with being the first openly transgender man to have signed to a major record label.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our guest, Lucas Silveira, frontman of The Cliks, now a solo artist, made history as the first openly transgender man signed by a major label with Warner Music, Tommy Boy/Silver Label in 2006. He's graced global stages alongside Cyndi Lauper, The B-52’s, Debbie Harry, Tegan and Sara, The Cult, and The New York Dolls. As co-host of Vice's Shine True in 2021, he expanded into TV.

With over 25 years of live musical experience, Lucas is a seasoned and heartfelt musician and vocalist. Presently a solo performer, he skillfully accompanies himself on acoustic guitar and piano, and has shared his music across the world, from Canada and the US to Europe and Asia.

He has given keynote speeches for Warner Music Canada, Hydro One, Corus Entertainment, and EGALE Canada, spanning schools to corporations, addressing his experience as a transgender musician in the mainstream music industry, trans community, lateral violence, and mental health awareness.

"The Goddamn Flowers" marks Lucas Silveira's stark departure, delving into personal turmoil, love, and darkness. Written over nine years, amidst mental health struggles and diagnosed schizoaffective disorder in 2021, this album challenges stigmas. Lucas champions the role of medication in fostering creativity and offers a transformative journey from chaos to enlightenment, proving the power of turning pain into artistry.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm.

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Stigma in the Medical Community Against Schizophrenia

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

When managing schizophrenia, many of us have come to accept that there is a stigma around the disorder. But what happens when the stigma is from the medical professionals who are supposed to be treating, diagnosing, and helping you? Mental health professionals can even turn away people with a schizophrenia diagnosis. When we've been turned away by a therapist, psychologist, what happens next? Where do we end up?

Studies have found that mental health professionals have a tendency to view people with serious mental illnesses more negatively than positively, characterizing them as manipulative, lacking in willpower, disturbing, ineffective, and difficult to communicate with.

In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers and co-host Gabe Howard look at schizophrenia stigma in the medical community.

Joining is guest Desire’ Brown, a mental health counselor who has worked with various social work organizations. She currently works with Monarch, which provides hope, promotes wellness, and empowers individuals and families impacted by mental illness, substance abuse, intellectual and developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injury.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Our guest, Desire’ Lillian Brown, MBA, BA, is currently working on her second master’s degree. She has been counseling adults in mental health for 8 years and working with SPMI diagnostics for 4 years. She works with clients from all walks of life.

“I love helping others, it is a calling from GOD.” — Desire’

Monarch is nationally accredited by The Joint Commission. We employ approximately 1,400 staff members, many who work with individuals and their families to identify and overcome many of the barriers they often face by providing varying levels of support. To join our team, visit Monarch Careers to learn more and view available positions. Join us today in making our mission, vision and values a reality.

Monarch provides hope, promotes wellness, and empowers individuals and families impacted by mental illness, substance use disorders, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and traumatic brain injury.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm.

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Early Indicators of Schizophrenia

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Up to 80% of people with schizophrenia aren't aware they're experiencing early schizophrenia symptoms. Most people with schizophrenia go through a prodromal stage, where there's subtle changes in mood, thinking, and behavior. It's an evolution of the symptoms to come.

Early indicators vary based on the age they start. An adult who develops schizophrenia will experience different signs than a child who develops the condition.

Host Rachel Star Withers and cohost Gabe Howard explore the early signs of schizophrenia in children, teens, and adults.

Joining to discuss the future of identifying biomarkers for schizophrenia is Carlos Larrauri, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who also lives with schizophrenia. Mr. Larrauri co-chairs the steering committee for the Accelerating Medicines Partnership® Schizophrenia (AMP® SCZ), which is working to identify early indicators of schizophrenia.

To learn more about the research AMP SCZ is undertaking, please visit www.ampscz.org.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our guest, Carlos A. Larrauri, MSN, is co-chair of the Accelerating Medicines Partnership® Schizophrenia (AMP® SCZ) and has formerly served on the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and NAMI Miami-Dade County Board of Directors. Diagnosed with schizophrenia at 23 years old, access to quality mental health care, community-based treatment, and early intervention afforded him the best opportunity for recovery.

Mr. Larrauri is pursuing a law degree at the University of Michigan Law School and a concurrent master in public administration at the Harvard Kennedy School, where he was Zuckerman Fellow at Harvard’s Center for Public Leadership. He’s board certified as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and formerly lectured at the University of Miami and Miami Dade College.

Mr. Larrauri aspires to interface advocacy and research to reduce health inequities for people living with mental illness. To learn more about Carlos and his work, visit his website or his LinkedIn.

The Accelerating Medicines Partnership® (AMP®) program—Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a public-private partnership between the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency, and multiple public and private organizations.

Launched in 2020 and managed by the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health, the AMP SCZ program addresses the critical need for more effective treatments for people with schizophrenia and related mental health conditions.

The overarching aim is to improve our understanding of disease pathways and identify new and better targets for treatment.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

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Serial Killers and Schizophrenia: Facts vs. Fiction

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

True crime TV shows, podcasts, and books love to explore the minds of serial killers. To perform such heinous acts a person must be “insane,” “crazy,” and “mentally unstable.” Over time, the “schizophrenic serial killer” became the monster behind many of these crimes. But is it true?

Where did the stereotype of serial killers having schizophrenia come from? When was schizophrenia first considered to be a violent mental illness? What's the truth to the myth of the schizophrenic serial killer?

In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard track down when schizophrenia first became associated with violence and how the myth grew.

They are joined by guest Dr. Ann Wolbert Burgess, a pioneer in the assessment and treatment of victims of trauma and abuse who helped shape the FBI's behavioral analysis methods in her prolific study of the criminal mind.

Warning: this episode of Inside Schizophrenia contains graphic content and offensive language about people with schizophrenia that some may find upsetting.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Guest, Ann Wolbert Burgess, D.N.Sc., APRN, FAAN, is an internationally recognized pioneer in the assessment and treatment of victims of trauma and abuse, and author of A Killer by Design: Murderers, Mindhunters, and My Quest to Decipher the Criminal Mind. She has received numerous honors including the Sigma Theta Tau International Audrey Hepburn Award, the American Nurses’ Association Hildegard Peplau Award, and the Sigma Theta Tau International Episteme Laureate Award. Her courtroom testimony has been described as “groundbreaking,” and she has been called a “nursing pathfinder.”

Her research with victims began when she co-founded, with Boston College sociologist Lynda Lytle Holmstrom, one of the first hospital-based crisis counseling programs at Boston City Hospital. She then worked with FBI Academy special agents to study serial offenders, and the links between child abuse, juvenile delinquency, and subsequent perpetration. Her work with Boston College nursing colleague Carol Hartman led to the study of very young victims and the impact of trauma on their growth and development, their families and communities. Her work continues in the study of elder abuse in nursing homes, cyberstalking, and internet sex crimes. She teaches courses in Victimology, Forensic Science, Forensic Mental Health, Case Studies in Forensics and Forensic Science Lab.

Host, Rachel Star Withers creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators.

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm.

Co-Host, Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

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Is It Healthy to Find Humor in Schizophrenia?

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Are you having trouble with mental illness or are you really good at managing it?

Humor can heal or hurt. Is schizophrenia something to joke about? Should you make jokes about mental illness? Schizophrenia is a very serious topic, but it can be exhausting to be serious all the time.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard find the humor in having schizophrenia in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia.

TikTok star comedian Kody Green joins to share his journey that includes addiction, incarceration, schizophrenia, and comedy.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

Kody Green (He/Him) is 28 years old with a diagnosis of undifferentiated schizophrenia. Kody is also the founder of a nonprofit, a motivational speaker, and content creator with over 1 million followers across social media platforms. He has struggled in the past with drug addiction, incarceration, and serious mental health issues.

In order to be a better advocate and speaker, Kody has been trained as a peer support specialist, recovery coach, and suicide prevention specialist.

Now, Kody shares his stories about his struggles and how to navigate through recovery, mental health issues, and life after incarceration. He chooses to pursue motivational speaking and mental health advocacy for schizophrenia awareness, drug recovery, and second- chance opportunities because he has dealt with these struggles in his own life.

"After my release from incarceration and my schizophrenia diagnosis, I thought there was nothing left for me. When I started sharing my story online, I did not think anyone would care. After gaining 1 million followers on social media, I realized how my struggles and my story could help others.”

Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Hosts

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm.

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How Culture Influences Schizophrenia

Wed, 17 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Schizophrenia affects approximately 24 million people worldwide. But does schizophrenia present the same way in every country? How do culture, religion, tradition, or even politics influence the presentation of schizophrenia?

Cross-cultural awareness of psychiatric symptoms helps us to understand our ever-changing global society. In today’s episode, hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore studies and cases across the world and throughout history to discover how culture influences schizophrenia and its treatment.

Joining is guest Nidhi Sinha, a final year PhD student in psychology who has been researching thematic analysis of individual experiences of audio hallucinations in India.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the episode page.

Guest Bio

Nidhi Sinha is a final year PhD student in cognitive psychology at the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH), where she is exploring the affective, cognitive, and cultural cues of subclinical depression. She is also a visiting researcher at the Cognitive Science lab, International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad, India. As a former CBT psychologist, Nidhi has worked with people with mental health conditions, providing therapy and support. Her current research focuses on improving the psychometric properties of existing diagnostic systems while exploring the subjective experiences of people with mental health conditions, such as psychosis and depression. Nidhi believes that understanding the social, political, and cultural factors of mental illness is crucial in developing effective diagnostic and intervention methods. She advocates introducing indigenous and traditional healing practices, such as meditation and yoga, to name a few. Her work on mental disorders (qualitative and quantitative) has been published and presented in top national and international journals and conferences.

Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Hosts

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm.

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Accepting a Diagnosis of Schizophrenia

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

One of the scariest things about schizophrenia is the very beginning, getting that diagnosis and learning that you — or a person that you love — has a lifelong serious mental illness. Especially in the beginning, it can be a difficult thing to accept. In fact, many people reject the idea that they're sick at all, often choosing to think, “Hey, I have a problem, but I don't need help” instead.

However, accepting a diagnosis of schizophrenia is the first step to getting treatment, which is the first step toward living a full and fulfilling life.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard share their personal journeys coming to acceptance of their diagnosis and ways that family, friends, and caregivers can help their loved ones in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia.

Guest Leif Gregersen, writer, teacher, and public speaker living with schizoaffective disorder, joins to discuss his journey of accepting his diagnosis and his need for treatment.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

Leif Gregersen is a writer, teacher, and public speaker living with schizoaffective disorder. He currently has twelve books in print, three of which are memoirs of his lived experience with mental illness. His most recent book, "Alert and Oriented x3: A Snapshot of a Severe Psychosis" is available as a free download from his website, www.edmontonwriter.com.

Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Hosts

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm.

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Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) for Schizophrenia Treatment

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been shown to be an effective treatment for people with schizophrenia, especially those with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. However, it’s not often brought up as an option for treatment.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore Rachel’s own past treatment with ECT, the intense side effect of memory loss, and why ECT is not being offered to more people with schizophrenia.

Today’s guest is “Ashley” who is currently undergoing electroconvulsive therapy and shares her journey of navigating ECT while being a mother.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

“Ashley” has schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type. She had a series of acute ECT treatments 4 years ago and has been receiving maintenance treatments ever since.

Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Hosts

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm.

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What is Psychological Resilience in Schizophrenia?

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Why are some people with schizophrenia able to live alone and others can’t? Why do some seem to recover while others have symptoms that persist for their entire lives? Why is suicide the leading cause of premature death in people with schizophrenia?

Many people say the answer lies in psychological resilience. So, does that mean some people have more psychological resilience than others? Does having a mental disorder mean your brain is less resilient to start with?

Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore the concept of psychological resilience and how it is connected to living with schizophrenia.

Dr. Nicole Washington, a psychiatrist and the co-host of Healthline’s Inside Bipolar, joins to give a medical perspective on psychological resilience.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

Dr. Nicole Washington is an ABMS board certified psychiatrist and the chief medical officer of Elocin Psychiatric Services, a primarily virtual practice where she focuses on the mental health needs of the busy professional. Dr. Washington has spent most of her career caring and advocating for people who aren’t typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities and high-performing professionals.

Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Hosts

To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com.

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Managing Family Dynamics with Schizophrenia

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

When a family member receives a schizophrenia diagnosis, it can dramatically change the dynamics of your family. For example, one-third of people with schizophrenia live with a family member. Families can provide emotional support, financial support, and advocate for better treatment options.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore how schizophrenia can affect family dynamics in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia.

Guest Elfy Scott joins. She is the author of “The One Thing We’ve Never Spoken About: Exposing Our Untold Mental Health Crisis,” a book that focuses on the silence and stigma that still surrounds complex mental health conditions. She shares her experiences growing up in a family with a parent who lived with schizophrenia.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

Elfy Scott is an award-winning freelance journalist, presenter, and producer. Her book, “The One Thing We’ve Never Spoken About: Exposing Our Untold Mental Health Crisis,” is an investigation into the failings of Australia’s mental healthcare system, grounded in a personal story of a mother-daughter relationship.

Elfy grew up in a household where her mother’s schizophrenia was rarely, if ever, spoken about. They navigated this silence outside the family home too; for many years, this complex mental health condition was treated as an open secret.

Over the past two decades, we have started talking more about common mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. But complex conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and psychosis have been left behind, as have many of the people who live with these conditions and those who care for them.

Part memoir, part deep-dive investigation, “The One Thing We’ve Never Spoken About” is filled with rage at how Australia’s public discourse, emergency services, and healthcare systems continue to fail so many people. It is also a work of care, telling the little-heard stories of people who live with these conditions and work at the front lines of mental health. Above all, this timely, compelling book is informed by hope and courage, breaking down taboos and asking big questions about vulnerability, justice, and duty of care.

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Can Schizophrenia Coping Techniques Be Helpful?

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Coping techniques used by people with schizophrenia account for a 25% variance in their quality of life. Unfortunately, people who have psychotic disorders tend to use predominantly harmful or ineffective coping techniques.

Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard are seeking to change that by sharing coping techniques for managing schizophrenia and help people understand why effective coping techniques can be life changing.

Guest Michelle Mariscal joins who blogs about her journey with schizophrenia and shares some coping techniques she has found to work for her over the years.

To learn more, or read the transcript, visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

Michelle Mariscal holds a master’s in psychology, a bachelor’s in sociology, and has much life experience dealing with a serious mental health disorder.

She resides on the Central Coast in California with her husband of 30 years, 4 children, and her granddaughter.

Read her blog by clicking here.

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Intelligence and the Connection to Schizophrenia

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Is there a connection between intelligence and schizophrenia? Are people with schizophrenia more likely to have higher or lower IQs than the general population?

In today’s episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore the current views around the connection between intelligence and having schizophrenia.

Author Steven Paul Lansky joins to share his new book “The Break,” a memoir about one of his schizophrenic breaks from reality.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

Steven Paul Lansky was raised by a loving family in Cincinnati, Ohio. He grew up sailing and bicycling and was unaware of how he would become an artist, harmonica player, and world traveler. First diagnosed with schizophrenia after his freshman year at Harvard, where he had been admitted at age 17, Lansky found art in psychiatric hospitals. He discovered his alcoholism in psychiatric treatment with the help of a generous writer with whom he apprenticed in his late 20s. By then, he had regional notoriety for his urban poetry. At 30, he began a career working with people with mental health conditions, at first as a vocational rehabilitation supervisor and later as a field-worker. During this time, he hosted a weekly radio show on a local NPR affiliate where he shared spoken word and music. In his early 40s, he earned an MA from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, in creative writing. Since then, he has taught writing, traveled, and published six books, including the audio novel “Jack Acid,” available on Spotify and Apple Music. As he was retiring, he earned an MFA from the low-residency creative writing program at the University of Tampa.

“The Break” is Steve Lansky’s harrowing and comic account of his descent into madness after he changed the medication he took to keep his schizophrenia in check. Written with a poet’s eye for detail and great sensitivity and insight, it follows his quixotic quest to find love and literary success while trying to navigate a world that was not designed for people like him.

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How Does a Peer Supporter Help with Schizophrenia?

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Peer support is an often ignored option in the treatment of schizophrenia. However, connecting with people who have lived similar experiences and are trained to share their knowledge, mention the things that they've gone through, and offer emotional, social and even practical support can be inspiring to someone learning to manage their schizophrenia. Sometimes it is as simple as knowing you are not alone.

Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore ways that peer support can help people with schizophrenia.

Juliet C. Dorris-Williams, Executive Director of The P.E.E.R. Center in Columbus, Ohio, joins to discuss what a huge impact a connection with a peer supporter can have.

To learn more - or read the transcript - please visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

Juliet C. Dorris-Williams is the Executive Director of The P.E.E.R. Center in Columbus, Ohio. The P.E.E.R. Center is a nonprofit drop-in wellness, recovery, and support center. Like each of the staff members, Juliet is living in long-term recovery. She spent more than 2 decades working in state government (TN, IN, and OH) providing administrative oversight for HIV/STD prevention, minority health, alcohol and other drug abuse prevention programs, as well as direct client services in multiple social service settings. Juliet is the board treasurer of OhioPRO — Ohio Peer Recovery Organizations, a statewide organization dedicated to advocating for peer recovery organizations, and is a member of the Recovery Ohio Advisory Council, appointed by Gov. Mike DeWine. She has a BS in Psychology from Indiana State University, an MSW from the Indiana University School of Social Work at Indianapolis, and is an independently licensed social worker supervisor and Ohio Peer Supporter. Juliet is a published author and a podcast host.

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Curious about EMDR and Other Adjunct Therapies For Treating Schizophrenia?

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Can art be used in the treatment of schizophrenia? What about martial arts? Yoga? Horses?

Therapy options like music therapy and sand play therapy are not meant to be main forms of treatment for schizophrenia. But, they are add-on therapies, also known as adjunctive therapies, that can be incorporated as a part of your treatment strategy.

One of these therapies that has become more popular in recent years is eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for post-traumatic stress disorder. Dr. Deborah Korn, a clinical psychologist and coauthor of “Every Memory Deserves Respect: EMDR, the Proven Trauma Therapy with the Power to Heal,” joins to explain how EMDR is being used to help people with schizophrenia.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore different add-on therapies and discuss which ones are shown to help schizophrenia in this episode.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

Deborah L. Korn, PsyD, a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is on the faculties of the EMDR Institute in California and the Trauma Research Foundation in Boston. She is an EMDR International Association-approved consultant and presents and consults internationally on the treatment of adult survivors of childhood abuse and neglect.

She is the Coauthor of “Every Memory Deserves Respect: EMDR, the Proven Trauma Therapy with the Power to Heal.” Learn more at www.everymemorydeservesrespect.com.

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Dating Tips for People with Schizophrenia

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Like anyone, people with schizophrenia want to make meaningful and romantic connections — but many have trouble meeting and interacting with people.

As a diagnosed schizophrenic who’s single, host Rachel Star Withers has plenty of experience dating with the condition. She shares her top tips on navigating romance with schizophrenia. From harnessing your personal style to treating your condition with humor, she’s got your back. She also throws in her favorite pickup lines that squeeze in the sometimes daunting topic of schizophrenia if you have trouble breaking the ice.

Psychotherapist and Life Coach Dr. Ashley Snyder also joins us to break down common mistakes people make when they start dating and building their dating app profile, advice for what to expect, and ways to meet a romantic partner.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

Dr. Ashley Snyder (Psychotherapist/Life Coach) focuses on your entire well-being, physical and emotional, and knows there is a direct relationship between both. Dr. Snyder is directive and supportive in therapy sessions, optimistic that you can make significant improvements to your life and how you are feeling over time. She does not see therapy as a quick fix but believes in long-term change.

Her passion is working with you to create a well-rounded fulfilling life, and she practices what she preaches. She emphasizes deep meaningful therapy sessions along with other aspects such as healthy eating, exercise, hobbies, relationships and time in nature. She likes to be clear with goals and how therapy will work to guide you each step of the way.

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Mass Shootings and Schizophrenia

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0000

News coverage of murders and mass shootings often puts a spotlight on the perpetrator's mental health, claiming they may be mentally ill with something like schizophrenia. Yet, in 2018, the FBI found that only 5% of active shooters had a mental disorder that includes psychosis.

In today’s episode host Rachel Star Withers, who has diagnosed schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard have a frank discussion about whether there’s a connection between having schizophrenia, mass shootings, and mass murder.

Mike, a retired military special ops personnel who lives with schizophrenia, joins the discussion to share experience and insight as a trained law enforcement professional and person with the disorder/condition.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the show's official episode page.

Guest Bio

"Mike" is a retired military special ops person living with schizophrenia. He now volunteers around the world as a humanitarian worker and creating custom weaponry, some of which is used in the film industry.

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What Is “High Functioning” Schizophrenia?

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0000

“High functioning schizophrenia” is not a clinical diagnosis, but it is a term that is heard often when describing how someone is managing life with schizophrenia. So what exactly does that mean? What criteria do you have to meet to be considered “high functioning”?

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard delve into these intense subjects in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia.

Dr. Matthew Smith joins us who is a Professor of Social Work at the University of Michigan and a researcher of high functioning schizophrenia.

To learn more, or read the transcript, please visit the show's official episode page.

Guest Bio

Matthew J. Smith, PhD, MSW, MPE, LCSW, received his PhD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and completed post-doctoral fellowships in psychiatric epidemiology and biostatistics at Washington University in St. Louis and in translational neuroscience at Northwestern University. Dr. Smith also completed a fellowship on leading randomized controlled trials to evaluate behavioral interventions through the Office of Behavioral and Social Science Research, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. His primary research interests focus on developing and evaluating technology-based interventions that can be delivered in high schools, community mental health agencies and prisons to improve employment and mental health outcomes for transition-age youth with educational disabilities, adults with severe mental illness and/or other disabilities, and returning citizens.

Dr. Smith is currently the principal investigator on five projects funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Institute of Justice, the Kessler Foundation and the Michigan Institute for Clinical & Health Research. See research link below for more information on these projects.

Dr. Smith's research team includes full-time staff, postdocs and graduate students. Please email smithumlab@umich.edu about opportunities to join the research team.

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FAQs About Schizophrenia

Wed, 18 May 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Since May is Mental Health Awareness Month, our hosts decided to dedicate an episode to the frequently asked questions surrounding schizophrenia. Questions include “What is having a hallucination like?” and “Why won’t my loved one get help?”

We also welcome photographer Whitney Yeager, creator of The Sammy Project, which highlights stories of people with serious mental health conditions. She began this endeavor after her son was killed while experiencing an episode of psychosis.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the show's official episode page here.

Guest Bio

Whitney Emory Yeager / Photographer

Creator of The Sammy Project

Yeager’s mission is to make it socially acceptable to talk openly about internal struggles — to encourage young people today to speak candidly about whatever mental health issues or illnesses they may be experiencing. She believes a shift must be made where someone’s diagnosis does not define them but empowers them to recognize their strengths. It takes great courage to write about one’s mental health, which traditionally is kept very private. She created a photography show called The Sammy Project, in which the participants take agency over their struggles and honor their son, brother, grandson, friend, and neighbor, Samuel Boone Yeager, whose life was cut short on April 3, 2021. Had he felt comfortable to talk about his mental illness and ask for help, Sam would likely still be here today.

www.thesammyproject.com

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Tardive Dyskinesia in Schizophrenia

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Did you know that rocking back and forth isn’t a symptom of schizophrenia — it’s a side effect of the medication used for treatment. It’s called tardive dyskinesia, and it’s a common result of long-term use of antipsychotic medications.

The percentage of patients who will experience tardive dyskinesia ranges from 3% to as high as 68% and can have a negative impact on quality of life.

Dee Linde, who is a support group leader with the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation, joins and shares her incredible journey with tardive dystonia — a progressed form of tardive dyskinesia.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and cohost Gabe Howard discuss the effects of tardive dyskinesia, personal stories, and ways to manage it in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia.

To learn more, visit the official episode page here.

Guest Bio

Dee Linde, MA, is a U.S. navy veteran and worked as a licensed marriage and family therapist for 15 years. Linde was diagnosed with tardive dystonia in 1997 and had deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery in 2000. In 2002 Linde founded the DBSforDystonia Yahoo group to offer online peer support and information to those on the DBS journey. She now moderates the Dystonia & Deep Brain Stimulation Facebook group. Linde also leads the Portland, Oregon & Southwest Washington Dystonia Support Group. She has served on the Department of Defense’s Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program’s consumer reviewer panel for dystonia research applications and has testified before the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee urging federal legislators to keep dystonia on the list of conditions included in the Department of Defense’s exclusive research program. Linde is a member of the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation’s Community Leadership Council, a frequent speaker at DMRF events, and a member of the Dystonia Dialogue newsletter’s editorial board.

https://dystonia-foundation.org/

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Money Management for Schizophrenia Costs

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Did you know the average American can’t withstand an unexpected $1,000 bill? When it comes to paying for schizophrenia, the two biggest costs are medication, followed by hospitalization. For someone who has had psychiatric hospitalization, the average annual cost of mental health treatment is around $37,000.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and cohost Gabe Howard search out options for managing the financial costs of schizophrenia in this episode of “Inside Schizophrenia.”

Greg McBride, chief financial analyst for Bankrate.com, joins us to discuss the best ways to approach unexpected expenses.

Guest Bio

Greg McBride is the senior vice president and chief financial analyst for Bankrate.com, the preeminent personal finance website. He leads a team responsible for researching financial products, providing analysis, and giving advice on personal finance to a vast consumer audience. With more than 25 years of experience in personal finance, he is a subject-matter expert who has the unique ability to provide both in-depth commentary and practical advice to consumers. Through Bankrate.com's Money Makeover series, he has helped consumers plan for retirement, manage debt, and develop appropriate investment allocations.

McBride has appeared on hundreds of national cable and network broadcasts, including NBC's "Nightly News," CBS's "Evening News," and ABC's "World News Tonight," and has been a frequent guest on CNBC and Fox Business. McBride is routinely quoted by major media outlets such as The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today, and is a regular guest on financial talk shows throughout the United States.

McBride currently serves on the board of Money Management International of Sugar Land, TX, the nation’s largest nonprofit credit counseling agency accredited by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, and is chairman of both the compensation committee and the investment committee. He has a distinguished record of serving on boards in the credit counseling industry.

McBride has also served on the funding board of the Consumer Financial Education Fund through the Rose Foundation of Oakland, CA.

McBride is a graduate of the University of Florida and has earned the designation of chartered financial analyst.

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On the Mental Health Spectrum, Where Does Schizophrenia Fit?

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Over the past few years, there has been a major shift in the ways we talk about mental health. Stories go viral about companies putting mental health first, influencers across social media post about the importance of mental self-care — but serious mental disorders, especially schizophrenia, are still being left out of the conversation.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard, explore where schizophrenia fits into this new wave of mental health discussions in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia.

AnnMarie Giannino, the founder of a campaign called What Would You Miss?, joins to share how she has been working to bridge the gap of bringing serious mental health issues into our everyday conversations.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page here.

Guest Bio

AnnMarie Giannino

What Would You Miss?

www.whatwouldyoumiss.com

Both a simple question and, perhaps, the seeds of a movement, What Would You Miss? creates a dialogue between people who struggle with mental illness and those whose lives they touch. Respondents have offered answers like “I would miss the way my dog wakes me up in the morning by gently tapping my face with his paw,” “I would miss Christmas time,” and “I would miss seeing how compassionate and caring my kids are.”

While depression and suicide are no longer as shrouded in secrecy and shame as they were even a few years ago, the topic can feel like a minefield, especially to someone who is not formally trained to handle it. When someone you love is suffering, the prospect of approaching that person and saying the “wrong” thing can be terrifying. And, if you’re immersed in the struggle yourself, the mere act of reaching out may seem like an imposition that will only drive loved ones away. Simply asking or answering the question, “What would you miss?” connects people on both sides of the dilemma, giving them a softer way to have a difficult conversation.

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Inside the Hallucinations of Schizophrenia

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 10:00:00 -0000

What immediately comes to mind when you think of schizophrenia? Most people would say hallucinations. Hallucinations, at least according to pop culture, are the defining feature of schizophrenia. But is that true?

Today’s episode discusses how many people living with schizophrenia hallucinate and if hallucinations are all the same. Do people in different countries or from different backgrounds hallucinate differently? Join us to learn the answers to these questions and more!

Guest Bio

Paul Fitzgerald, PhD completed his medical degree at Monash University and subsequently a Master of Psychological Medicine whilst completing psychiatric training. He then undertook a Clinical and Research Fellowship at the University of Toronto and The Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. On returning to Melbourne, he worked as a psychiatrist and completed a PhD in transcranial magnetic stimulation in schizophrenia. Since completing this PhD, he has developed a substantial research program including a team of over 25 psychiatrists, registrars, postdoctoral researchers, research assistants, research nurses, and students.

Professor Fitzgerald runs a research program across both MAPrc and Epworth Clinic using brain stimulation and neuroimaging techniques including transcranial magnetic stimulation, functional and structural MRI, EEG, and near infrared spectroscopy. The primary focus of this program is on the development of new brain stimulation-based treatments for psychiatric disorders. Visit him online at www.paulbfitzgerald.com.

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Disclosing a Schizophrenia Diagnosis

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 10:00:00 -0000

If you live with schizophrenia, then disclosing that diagnosis is a decision you’re going to have to make multiple times throughout your life. But, do you have to? What are the pros and cons of disclosing at work, for example? What do you actually say, and to who, at your place of employment? Will it hurt your career?

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, shares her personal story, thoughts, and tips, and interviews the retired executive director from Disability Rights Ohio and licensed attorney Michael Kirkman to help navigate the Americans with Disabilities Act.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page here.

Guest Bio

Michael Kirkman, JD, spent over 40 years as an advocate for those whom society had cast aside, including poor and minority people and people with disabilities. As a lawyer who practiced at the highest levels, including the United States Supreme Court, and who was sought out for consultation with officials at the U.S. Departments of Justice and HHS, as well as state officials in Columbus, his work improved the lives of tens of thousands of people. Prior to his retirement, Kirkman was the executive director of Disability Rights Ohio (DRO), a not-for-profit corporation whose mission is to advocate for the human, civil, and legal rights of people with disabilities. DRO is the federally mandated system to protect and advocate for the rights of people with disabilities (P&A) in Ohio. He previously served as the director and legal director of the Ohio Legal Rights Service, Ohio’s state agency P&A until 2012. Kirkman also served as President of the National Disability Rights Network from 2017 to 2020.

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Schizophrenia

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a proven treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions and emotional struggles, but many times is not used for treating schizophrenia. Schizophrenia’s symptoms of hallucinations and psychosis are assumed to be too complex for this type of therapy.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard, explore the types of CBT that best work for schizophrenia. Rachel breaks down her “Monster Technique” that she uses daily to help her deal with her visual hallucinations.

Guest Cornelia Larsson, licensed psychologist and psychotherapist, joins to talk in-depth about CBT techniques for dealing with audio hallucinations like hearing voices.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page here.

Guest Bio

Dr. Cornelia Larsson is a licensed clinical psychologist and psychotherapist who spent most of her career working in Swedish psychiatric clinics. Currently, she’s a doctoral student working toward her PhD by researching psychological treatments for psychosis, and is a course coordinator in psychotherapist education at Centre for Psychiatry Research at Karolinska Institutet & Region Stockholm. She’s also a director of studies for the psychologists at the South-West Psychiatric Clinic in Region Stockholm and gives lectures mainly on cognitive behavior therapy and psychosis. Although Larsson has worked with individuals living with all sorts of psychiatric diagnoses during her career, her main focus the last 10 years have been on individuals living with psychosis and schizophrenia. Clinically, she has taken a special interest in helping individuals with distressing voices, who engage in frequent self-harm and suicide attempts, to change their relationships to their voices and thereby regain hope and quality of life.

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Virtual Reality for the Treatment of Schizophrenia

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0000

Virtual reality has moved beyond gaming and is an emerging technology in the treatment of schizophrenia and potentially in shaping the portrayal of this mental health condition for younger generations.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a person living with schizophrenia, and cohost Gabe Howard explore how virtual reality technologies are used to help people with schizophrenia.

Deepak Gopalakrishna, the founder and CEO of virtual reality therapy platform Rey, joins to share how Rey is revolutionizing exposure therapy for people with anxiety, PTSD, depression, and schizophrenia.

And later in the show, Barry Gene Murphy and May Abdalla, the producers of “Goliath: Playing with Reality,” share the inspiration behind their new award-winning virtual reality movie. “Goliath: Playing with Reality” is the true story of a man’s experience with schizophrenia, and is narrated by Academy Award winner Tilda Swinton.

To Learn more or read the transcript, visit the official episode page here.

Guest Bios

Deepak Gopalakrishna, the founder and CEO of Rey, is a highly accomplished customer-centric innovator. A seasoned entrepreneur with deep expertise in healthcare, AI, blockchain and digital innovation, he has founded and led the growth of seven companies.

With an MBA and a doctorate in genetics and Molecular biology, Deepak has the unique ability to merge the rigor of a scientist with the creativity of an entrepreneur. The vision for Rey was born: Take the best mental health clinicians in the world and transfer their methodologies into user-friendly automated digital treatments. You can find out more at www.getrey.com.

May Abdalla, the co-director, writer, and executive producer of “Goliath: Playing with Reality,” is an experimental documentary filmmaker who has won numerous awards for her work in the immersive and interactive arts. She founded the production company Anagram in 2013 to explore immersive technologies, especially in the documentary genre.

Barry Gene Murphy, the director and writer of “Goliath: Playing with Reality,” is an award-winning filmmaker and artist with over 15 years’ experience in animation, 3D and special effects, and more recently in mixed-reality works.

Goliath: Playing with Reality is Available to download for FREE on Oculus now:

Oculus: https://www.oculus.com/experiences/quest/3432432656819712/

Website: https://goliathvr.io/

Discord: https://discord.com/channels/864490434927788072/874057550654472213

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Technology and Managing Schizophrenia

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 09:30:00 -0000

From smartphones to tablets, apps, and health tracking devices, technology has the ability to change the way schizophrenia is treated and challenge dated thoughts on how people with schizophrenia use technology in our daily lives. In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard, review the top 4 schizophrenia-related smartphone apps and explore what’s holding technology innovations back in the area of schizophrenia treatment. CNET senior editor, Alison DeNisco Rayome, who leads the series Tech For A Better World, joins to highlight recent advancements in the realm of technology evolution for people with disabilities.

To learn more, visit the official episode page here.

Guest Bio

Alison DeNisco Rayome is a senior editor at CNET and leads the series Tech For A Better World. CNET’s Tech for A Better World highlights the growing diversity of the technology ecosystem, and the people who are creating products to improve our lives and our communities.

About the Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Host

Rachel Star Withers creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and let others like her know they’re not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written “Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids” and a tool for schizophrenics, “To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal.” Learn more at RachelStarLive.com.

About the Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Co-Host

Gabe Howard lives with bipolar disorder and is a nationally recognized speaker and podcast host. He is the author of the book, “Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations,” available from Amazon; signed copies available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, please visit gabehoward.com.

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The Role Psychologists and Psychiatrists Play In Treating Schizophrenia

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 09:30:00 -0000

A psychologist and psychiatrist are both mental health professionals who can treat schizophrenia. But what’s the difference? Both specialities are commonly referred to as doctors and confusion often results. Today’s episode tackles the differences and touches on what a person visiting with each professional can expect.

People with schizophrenia commonly wonder: How are they similar? Who should they see first? Do they need to see both?

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard, share their medical health journeys in treatment with numerous doctors and how both psychologists and psychiatrists have played an important part.

Guest John Grohol, PsyD, founder of PsychCentral.com and a psychologist, joins to help people understand the differences between the two.

To read the transcript or learn more, please visit the the official episode page here.

Guest Bio

Dr. John Grohol is the founder of Psych Central. He’s an author, researcher, and expert in mental health online, and has been writing about online behavior, mental health, and psychology issues since 1995. Grohol has a Master’s degree and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Nova Southeastern University. He sits on the editorial board of the journal Computers in Human Behavior and is a founding board member of the Society for Participatory Medicine.

About the Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Host

Rachel Star Withers creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and let others like her know they’re not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written “Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids” and a tool for schizophrenics, “To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal.” Learn more at RachelStarLive.com.

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Traveling with Schizophrenia

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0000

Flight delays, crowded airports, hotel reservations, jet lag... Travel is stressful for everyone, but especially people with schizophrenia. Host Rachel Star Withers and co-host Gabe Howard discuss the risks and rewards of traveling while having a serious mental health condition. Laura Motta, editorial director of Lonely Planet, joins to share some tips about staying safe while traveling — and some cool destination ideas.

To learn more or view the transcript, please visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

Laura Motta is the editorial director of LonelyPlanet.com. Previously, she was leading content teams at ShermansTravel for nine years. Before that, she held positions at Travelzoo, iVillage, and EverydayHealth, and lived in Paris. Follow her travels on Instagram.

About the Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Host

About the Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Co-Host

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Transitioning Out of Pandemic Mode

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 09:30:00 -0000

We’ve all been through a lot in the past year. The global pandemic has been rough on everyone, and those living with schizophrenia have had some unique challenges. But necessity is the mother of invention, and all the chaos has led to some innovative solutions. Join us as Rachel and Gabe discuss some of the silver linings of COVID-19 and how we can all move forward in a mentally healthy way.

For a transcript or more information, please visit the official episode page.

Guest Bio

Craig Chepke, MD, FAPA, is a board certified psychiatrist in Huntersville, North Carolina with over 16 years of experience in the medical field. He works with adults and the aging population in all diagnostic categories, but has special interests in neuropsychiatric conditions, treatment-resistant/severe-persistent mental illness, and movement disorders.

His approach to treatment is personalized to each individual person, from the newest leading-edge medications to older underutilized treatments. He strongly emphasizes psychotherapeutic interventions and physical health and wellness through exercise, dietary modification, and supplementation. Chepke has also been named a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and is a board member of the CURESZ Foundation.

About the Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Host

About the Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Co-Host

Gabe Howard lives with bipolar disorder and is a nationally recognized speaker and podcast host. He’s the author of the book, “Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations,” available from Amazon; signed copies available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, please visit gabehoward.com.

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Unpacking the Stigma of Schizophrenia

Wed, 19 May 2021 09:30:00 -0000

The main three stigmas of schizophrenia are:

People with mental illness are violent and need to be feared.
They have childlike perceptions of the world that should be marveled.
They’re responsible for their illness because they have weak character.

Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard, explore the stigma of mental illness and share their personal experiences. Guest expert Brandon Kohrt, MD, PhD, a psychiatrist and anthropologist joins to discuss stigma surrounding mental illness around the world and ways different countries have approached solutions.

Guest Bio

Brandon Kohrt, MD, PhD, is a psychiatrist and anthropologist who has worked for 25 years to improve mental health services in countries affected by war and political violence, disasters, and other forms of adversity. Kohrt is the director of the Global Mental Health Equity Lab at George Washington University. Kohrt has sought to combat the stigma associated with mental illness through work with The Carter Center Mental Health Program, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and more. Kohrt developed the “RESHAPE mental health” intervention to reduce mental illness stigma among healthcare providers.

About the Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Host

About the Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Co-Host

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Psychiatric Service Dogs for Schizophrenia

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 09:30:00 -0000

A psychiatric service dog is a type of service dog trained to assist its handler with a psychiatric condition such as schizophrenia. These service animals can be trained to help people with schizophrenia identify hallucinations, ground them back in reality, and even remind them to take their medication.

In this episode, our hosts explore how service dogs can be part of a person with schizophrenia’s support system. They speak with Shawn Gantkowski of Dog Training Elite Charlotte, who trains service dogs and shares what goes into training a psychiatric service animal. Listen Now!

Learn more by visiting the official episode webpage here.

Guest Bio

Shawn Gantkowski, Dog Training Elite

Dog Training Elite Charlotte has developed a highly successful and unique positive dog training program that empowers dog owners and their canines to work together, creating strong bonds and sustained obedience. Training takes time, commitment, and balance.

Dog Training Elite Charlotte is different from other training programs. We’ll be there every step of the way to help you and your dog achieve sustained, deep-rooted obedience.

Our dog training services in Charlotte are personalized and designed to teach owners how to train their dog alongside a professional dog trainer in their home environment, as well as in small group settings. We strongly believe that the key to sustained obedience and training is to empower owners to be an integral part of the training experience. Most training programs require minimal to no involvement from owners and once the dog returns to their home environment, almost all progress is undone and owners feel just as helpless as they did before.

Our passion for dogs and service sets us apart. All our local dog trainers are trustworthy, willing to be there for our clients, and love what they do. We want to build a community for our clients that love their dogs just as much as we do, and once you begin the training process with us, you become a part of the Dog Training Elite Charlotte family. Find out more at https://dogtrainingelite.com/charlotte

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Homelessness - a Symptom of Schizophrenia

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 09:30:00 -0000

Isolation is a symptom of schizophrenia. Being homeless is isolating yourself from society, which is the extreme manifestation of the mental health condition. Host Rachel Star Withers and Cohost Gabe Howard explore how delusions, isolation, and hallucinations can lead to homelessness. Guest Bethany Yeiser shares her 4-year experience being homeless due to her schizophrenia. Learn more about Ms. Yeiser at https://www.bethanyyeiser.com/

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Incarceration and Schizophrenia

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0000

The U.S. correctional system is responsible for having 10 times more mentally ill patients receiving treatment than any state psychiatric hospital. Host Rachel Star Withers and cohost Gabe Howard examine connections between having schizophrenia and incarceration. Guest Lloyd Hale discusses living with schizophrenia and his time in the correctional system after being convicted of murder. Years later, he was found not guilty by reason of insanity. Listen Now!

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Schizoaffective Disorder vs Schizophrenia

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 11:00:00 -0000

While schizoaffective disorder and schizophrenia both share the prefix “schizo,” they remain two separate diagnoses. Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard divulge their personal experiences with schizophrenia and mental health conditions as they explore the newer-termed condition of schizoaffective disorder. Guest Dr. Michelle Maust from MindPath Care Centers joins to give a medical perspective on the differences in diagnosing these disorders.

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Evolution of Schizophrenia Treatment

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 11:00:00 -0000

Schizophrenia has been around since the dawn of time but actually treating it has only been around the past 100 years. In this episode host and schizophrenic Rachel Star Withers takes you through the dark and disturbing evolution of schizophrenia treatments. From systematic euthanasia to hydrotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy to the infamous lobotomy. Were these doctors "mad scientists" torturing the mentally ill or were they the only ones trying to help a population of people seen as a burden?

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Caregiving for Schizophrenia

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0000

A third of all people will be a caregiver at some point in their lives. Caregiving for people with schizophrenia presents challenges that many people are ill-prepared for. Host Rachel Star and Gabe Howard break down the principles of caregiving and creative ways to navigate schizophrenia. Dr. Sarah Kopelovich joins to share schizophrenia caregiver specific training.

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Love, Dating, and Marriage with Schizophrenia

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0000

Can people with schizophrenia love? Can they date or get married? Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard review their own past experiences. Andrew and Stephanie Downing, authors of “Marriage and Schizophrenia: Eyes on the Prize” join and share their incredible journey and love.

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Impact of Schizophrenia in the Minority Communities

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0000

Rates of psychosis are more strongly influenced by ethnicity and socioeconomic status than any other mental health condition. In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss the impact of schizophrenia in minority communities. Guest Sakinah “The Muslim Hippie” joins to share her experiences in mental health care.

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The Role Nurses Play in Schizophrenia Treatment

Wed, 20 May 2020 10:00:00 -0000

Some of the professionals that work most with helping people with schizophrenia are nurses. There are so many types with different skill sets. Host Rachel Star Withers and Co-host Gabe Howards learn who these often overlooked healthcare workers are. Dr. Tari Dilks, Professor and President of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, joins with insight on what goes into being a psychiatric nurse.

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Schizophrenia in Men

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0000

Men and women experience schizophrenia differently; from the age of onset to symptoms and how society treats those with mental disorders. Schizophrenic, Rachel Star Withers and co-host Gabe Howard continue the discussion of the differences from the last episode but change the focus to men. Jason Jepson, an author who has schizophrenia joins for a man’s perspective and Dr. Hayden Finch returns to explain the clinical side of the issues.

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Schizophrenia in Women

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 11:00:00 -0000

Often we don't really consider gender dynamics in treatment or medication. A lot of medications are only tested on men because of the risk of pregnancy, etc. This means there are whole drugs that have made it to market that may not have ever been tested with women. Schizophrenia affects women in many different ways than men. This episode discusses differences in age, symptoms, treatments, lifestyle, parenthood in the genders as they experience schizophrenia.

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Comorbidity with Schizophrenia

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 11:00:00 -0000

Comorbidity is the presence of one or more additional conditions co-occurring with a primary condition. In this episode, host schizophrenic Rachel Star Withers with her cohost Gabe Howard will be discussing comorbidity with schizophrenia. Comorbidity is associated with worse health outcomes, more complex clinical management and increased health care costs. Occupational therapist Brock Cook will be joining us to discuss ways that he works with people with schizophrenia to manage multiple health issues.

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Treatment Strategies for Schizophrenia

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 11:00:00 -0000

Medication, Therapy, Hospitalization, Electroconvulsive Therapy- what are the treatment strategies for schizophrenia? How do you convince someone they need help? What if someone refuses treatment? Schizophrenic Rachel Star Withers with co-host Gabe Howard reveal different treatments they have undergone over the years with various outcomes. Guest Barbara Thompson, with NAMI, shares support options for people with schizophrenia and their family in the community.

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Psychosis in Schizophrenia

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 11:00:00 -0000

What exactly is psychosis? What happens in the brain of a person with schizophrenia who is hallucinating? Schizophrenic Rachel Star Withers shares her personal hallucinations and delusions and Dr. Joseph Goldberg, who specializes in researching what goes on in the brain when someone is experiencing psychosis, joins to break down how the brain functions during psychotic episodes.

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Motivation in Schizophrenia

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 10:00:00 -0000

The word "schizophrenia" tends to conjure ideas of hallucinations, delusions, insane asylum in the general public's mind. Most people don't think of the boring parts that consume many with schizophrenia, like lacking the motivation to get out of bed, to make friends... Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss avolition and ways to help motivate loved ones.

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Working With Schizophrenia

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Everyone complains about work. Having to go to work every day, working too much- working can be challenging for many reasons. Today's episode focuses on working while having schizophrenia. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard share antidotes from their own work lives and speak with fellow schizophrenic Michelle Hammer.

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Families Impacted by Schizophrenia

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Schizophrenia does not just affect the person with schizophrenia, but their families, also. We explore the family relationships impacted by schizophrenia, both immediate and extended. Two guests join us, Chrisa Hickey, mother of an adult son with schizophrenia and started an online site for parents of children who have a severe mental illness. The other guest is Janel Star Withers, mother of host Rachel Star Withers. Janel shares her experiences with raising a schizophrenic daughter.

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Childhood Schizophrenia

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia our hosts tackle the topic of early onset – or childhood – schizophrenia. Host Rachel Star discusses her personal experiences with symptoms as an adolescent and Dr. Joseph Gonzalez-Heydrich from Harvard Medical School discusses some of the latest research. Listen in now!

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A Look into Possible Links Between Violence and Schizophrenia

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 10:00:00 -0000

An in-depth look at violence and its relation to schizophrenia. Is violence a symptom of schizophrenia? Do mass attackers always have schizophrenia? Are schizophrenics dangerous?

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What is Schizophrenia?

Wed, 29 May 2019 09:00:00 -0000

From pop culture’s view to Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, view of herself to a leading mental health doctor and professor’s view. What are the actual symptoms? What is the difference between a hallucination and delusion? What is it like to experience one? How do you manage it? How is social media changing the way it is viewed? In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, Rachel and co-host Gabe Howard with special guest Dr. Ali Mattu explore this often misrepresented mental illness.

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