Schizophrenia is . . .
About six months ago, I compiled a list of statements describing what schizophrenia is to me. Unlike the psychiatric description, this is the personal description taking events from my life. Each statement begins with "Schizophrenia is . . ." and then is followed by something that has occurred in my life. It is a long list, and while I was considering picking out the highlights, I didn't know exactly which one's would give the greatest understanding. I hope you find this podcast interesting. Note: I have not added bumper music because it didn't seem appropriate.
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Andrew,
What a powerful posting. I really gained greater insights into what schizophrenia has meant in your life. I was struck by the loneliness of many of your statements and how alienated you felt from family and friends, from what it sounds like of many years, a like. I was wondering what the biggest contributing factor to the loss of these relationships and friendships was. Did you have thoughts of fearing friends' contact? Was it difficult to interact in social settings? You seem to have made tremendous progress since that time, and I am so happy to hear that you feel positive and motivated once again. You are a gift to us!
Thanks so much,
Bill
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Bill,
What great questions! I would like to respond to you in another entry, that way more people are likely to see it. I'll try to write it sometime today, so please check back for it.
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hey, that was really great. i have actually known several people with the same disorder -- a friend's brother, another friend's girlfriend, and a girl i used to do drugs with, and some others -- it's weird how everyone has basically the same delusions, about the CIA and stuff. mental illness fascinates me, actually. i've never considered myself particularly in touch with reality...
also, one of the things you said was that you can never have a family... i don't think that's true... i know of several people with your illness who have gotten married and had kids (it runs in my friend joanie's family, so both her parents and 2 of her siblings have schizophrenia, and one of them got married). her brother actually lives in a group home near lake of the isles. he has a girlfriend and a job. once we went out for coffee with him and he told the barista that jesus is 10 feet tall! they all knew him, though.
anyway this is totally random. just wanted to say i loved this podcast.
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