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I cried throught this whole video I was married to someone who delt with schizoaffective disorder. He passed from a massive heart attack last year here at home. We were married 25 years and have went through everything you have. I never thought of myself as a caregiver only his support. I loved him with my whole heart! Why do people think just because a person that has mental health issues can NOT or don't deserve love and marriage. So much bad press have been put out by the media about how dangerous people with schizophrenia are. I spent my whole life with him breaking down to people the myths and what is true about this. I am not here to tell you it wasn't hard because it was! He was hospitalized several times over our 25 years together. But he also held down a full time job and was a well thought of person within our circle of friends. Was he perfect No was I perfect No! Did I always handle things they way they should have been handled again No. We had problems at 1st with him not wanting to take his meds then it switched down the line he wanted to take everything he could find to drown out the voices he heard. He went from a very loving person to a person who barely spoke to me. It truly was a roll coaster ride. But the love we had for each other kept us together through thick and thin. I miss him so much sometimes it's hard to go on. But one thing I do know I wouldn't trade the years I had with him and all the good and terrible times we went though for anyone else! I miss you baby! Thank you so much for putting out such a true video that it can be so hard but if you really love someone enough and educate yourself on what to expect you can live and love someone without fear.
Joann, my heart aches for you because I understand how you feel. My partner for 10 years was schizophrenic. He quit taking his medication because he didn't like the side effects and started to self medicate with alcohol, which led to his death in 2019. We went through a lot in those 10 years. His mental issues never stopped us from having a good time and enjoying our life together The years when he took his meds and went to the doctor were so good. When he stopped, things were difficult. He was hospitalized. He had a few psychotic episodes. I wish this video was around then. I felt so alone in trying to give him the best support I could when he was hearing voices. He was always so ashamed of his diagnosis and it was a big secret. He was on disability and was unable to work because of it. But he was a good guy and we loved one another. I was never, ever scared of him. I hate how people are afraid. Joann you are a good person for being with your husband for 25 years. I hope the lesson you learned can help others. Blessing to you.
my boyfriend was diagnosed with it- he had several episodes of it and we didn’t know what it was. in 2018, he had it the worse- he ended up going homeless and the whole time i stayed with him. it takes a lot of patience and unconditional love and support. we’ve been together for 5 years and i wouldn’t want it any other way.❤️
I just got in a relationship with a guy who has this. I don’t know how be there for him as I know nothing about this illness. Please if you have any advice let me know. I really wanna give him a chance 😞
@@keyv5872 I’ve found only a couple videos on it but the sad reality truth is if their not on their medication it’s not safe to be around them. They can go into a manic episode at any moment.
thank all of you for sharing your experience. my girlfriend had her first psychosis episode just about 2 months ago. sadly, it was very persecutory in nature, and she held me at knife point for a few hours until I was able to get free and a crisis intervention team came to intervene. the entire time all I could think of is how alone she must feel, and how much it must suck to no longer be able to trust anybody you trusted before. she went from behavorial health facility to behavorial health facility for about a month until she was just let out, without contact being made to her family or I. when we finally got the information out of them, they told us that she had been given an all day pass to get taken to a homeless shelter. which she never made it to. she was missing for 8 days, wandering the streets. luckily she was found on that 8th day, but she and I hardly talked from that point forward, as she was with her family. I wanted to be there for her but was often met with, "that may not be the best idea, we don't want to cause any other episode." but I had known about how she had an eating disorder, which she's struggled with for quite a while, and I wanted to help in any way I could. sadly, randomly, she stopped replying to me for 8 days. on the 8th day, I tried reaching out to her family to see if anything had happened, and I was informed that she had passed that same day, but they refused to give me any information as to how she died. why? I do not know, but I am trying my hardest to come to terms with it. it's so hard. she really was the woman I loved. we had been together for 7-8 years, but known each other over 10 years. I had always tried to advocate for us getting therapy, just seems like she couldn't take that step. all I can really do now is tske everything she's taught me and given me, and apply it where I can. she gave me a new perspective on mental illness ans just how serious it can get. my entire life feels different. I want to do everything I can to help everyone I can reach. to help take stigma away from things like this. she was the kindest soul and deserves to be remembered as such. I loved her, and I always will love her.
this channel is a great way to expose people to what it actually means to live with mental disease. congrats on it: your work is important and makes a difference
In my very limited experience with primary psychotic disorders; the patients who have the best outcomes usually have one thing in common. Someone that deeply cares about them. I believe Lauren's prognosis is a lot brighter with you in her life.
It's nice that you classify yourself as her support and not her caregiver, personally I think that's a great balance to keeping peace in the relationship. Keep up the great work you guys.
I think it’s important to note though that there are romantic relationships where the term “caregiver” is appropriate for one of the partners, and that dynamic doesn’t have to diminish the ability of the person being “cared for” to contribute to the relationship. For example the RUclips channel Squirmy and Grubs is run by a couple in which one of the partners has muscular dystrophy and the other partner is his caregiver. That’s how they refer to each other and they often describe how it still very much feels like a balanced partnership
Wow! You guys are so brave ❤..I’ve been dumped by men, one a husband, for being very emotional & moody, and I’m not even schizophrenic. That’s amazing to me!
I have schizoaffective and my husband is my soulmate and a great support. We're going on 14 yrs married far from easy but so worth it! When you find your soulmate your special tried and true try your best to stay together and pray and love each other genuinely forever.
I can’t express how grateful I feel for finding your channel. My girlfriend has schizophrenia and suffers from alcohol abuse as well. We’ve been together for 2 years last month. But unfortunately right now we’re on a break. The information you’re providing is bringing me to understand more and may help us stay together. Thank you so so much🙏🏻
my girlfriend has schizophrenia and i can relate with many things you said. one of the most difficult moments is when she doesn’t want to take the medication and I always try to somehow make her understand the importance of the medication but sometimes it doesn’t work out so thank you very much for the tip you gave. it's great that you and lauren talk about what schizophrenia really is and help people to know more about it
I think my father had schizophrenia, but know I can't get a straight answer from my family. There was a lot of secretiveness, which didn't help, but actually made things scarier. It is so refreshing to see a couple working together honestly, and sharing their experiences with others. Thank you for helping to destigmatize mental illness.
All I can say is thank you for making this video and sharing your experiences with those who are currently struggling. The simplicity and genuine thoughtfulness in your words is just perfect, and the message was fully heard.
He is such a caring partner and a big support. Thanks so much for this! It really helps me and my partner deal with the day to day worries of schizophrenia. Thanks again!
My husband also has schizoaffective disorded, I can relate to most of the things you are saying. Especially hard for us are those negative symptoms because we have twins and it is something that we have been dealing with even before they were born. They are now 4 years old and sometimes it has been really challenge. Sometimes I feel like all that caring about them is on me and only me. I don't mind but I am only human and I have a job and sometimes I just need a bit of rest or support, besides they are old enough to ask for him and ask why is dad sleeping and so on. My advice to others would be to communicate (as peacefully as possible) and to not get settled with it, at least try to make it better together and even if it seems like it is not working, it will get better slowly over time, bit by bit. Like you said, every relationship has its bumps on the road and this is not different.
(from Brazil) Hello, i am diagnosed bipolar 2 and last year spent one week at the hospital. There i make good friends that has schizophrenia and while watching this videos i am very happy to understand them better. You make a delicated job presenting your particularities to others. With sharing who we are we create conditions for respect and understand. You made me more capable of understanding my new friends and i love them more because of your videos. Thank you =)
Commenting from 2024 and your line about “this is not something that’s just going to go away” really hits hard in light of Lauren’s remission thanks to the medical ketogenic diet and metabolic therapies. I wish you all the happiness. May each year be better than the one before.
Dude, this hit home. My wife just finally admitted to having schizophrenia after 2 years of going through everything you talked about in this video. Me being an Iraq veteran with my own ptsd issues, handled this all wrong and tried to fix it and reason with it. You can not do that with people that have this mental illness. You are correct about just trying to be supportive and let them just do their own thing. We haven't found a medication that has worked for her yet. If anyone has any secrets to help with this, please let me know
oh man you are both so passionated about each other and so understanding. specially when Lauren or now also Rob talks about the disorder, it feels like a thing you work *together* on - which is so beautiful
I myself have BPD so I already understand how difficult it was to love someone with mental illness but with my boyfriend, I learned when we started dating he had schizophrenia and BPD.He doesn’t take medication anymore, and was a past addict. A lot of times when he has his episodes, it takes so much of my mental willpower to remain grounded and communicate with him. Thank you so much for bringing light into this. I feel so alone.
I'm so glad that you made this video. It doesn't only show the understanding, loving and supportive partner. It shows that there have been doubts, issues, troubles and all of that. Because dealing with someone who is struggling with a disability or extreme mental condition isn't easy, for both people. You're doing great and you're both strong and wonderful people.
It is absolutely disgusting that people dismiss the intentions of the mentally ill in such a crude and personally hurtful way. I thank you for your sentiments. All humans need each other. There's no shame in that.
Thanks for correcting a misconception I had harboured. I found this very honest an admission when you say how you're not a caregiver to Lauren but more of a partner that supports and doesn't overstep their boundaries while doing that!
Thank you for this message! I just got married and have mental illness and struggle with a lot of this fear. Thanks for helping navigate some of those topics!
What a great video Rob. Both you and Lauren are so articulate and these videos are so helpful to not pmly people livi g with the condition but for those living with someone with the condition so that we can understand and help support them. I love the way you call yourself Laurens support and not her caregiver as she is your equal in all ways albeit with additional challenges. You two are an awesome partnership.
Thank you for making this video. I love someone who has this same disorder and I felt the same, thinking that he was mad at me when he wasn't at all and was suffering emotionally and mentally. Understanding what they're going through is so important! You're doing a wonderful thing by helping people understand what she goes through and what you go through too.
Awesome video. Thank you so much for sharing. I’d like to add something: a key to making your relationship work with Lauren is that she acknowledges and accepts her diagnosis and is in treatment, even if she has doubts or it is hard for her sometimes. It is extremely difficult to be in a romantic relationship (or any relationship) with someone who refuses to get diagnosed, accept their diagnosis, comply with treatment, work on coping skills, etc. I am Lauren in this equation; I have bipolar-type schizoaffective disorder like she does. My ex-fiancé has autism but refused to get diagnosed until a month before we broke up. For the entire 6 years before that, and 7 prior years of friendship before THAT, he refused to do anything to help himself and expected me to figure his life out for him. It was extremely hard on me, especially given my own challenges. I got very physically sick from all the stress and had to break it off. I just couldn’t do it anymore. Please understand, I am NOT saying that all people with autism are like my ex. Many accept it and do everything they can to help themselves. The bottom line is that no matter what a person’s challenges are, no one else can truly help or support them if they won’t help themselves. To anyone who reads this, DO NOT waste your time and energy on a person like that. You can’t force them to be an adult, and that’s not your fault.
My partner is newly diagnosed schizoaffective bipolar, and giving up on him was never an option! I love him so much, and I’m ever more determined after having to call the police yesterday whilst holding him and the knife he was cutting himself with during a psychotic crisis. He is the kindest and most loving human being and he doesn’t deserve to feel like that. But since I can’t take the illness away, I will do the next best which is stand by his side and help him manage his illness the best we can, so we can live well with schizophrenia! Thank you both for all your videos, you are saving lives rest assured!
Thank you. I can relate to everything you said here. It is possible to be in a meaningful, loving, healthy relationship. I support my spouse. The real key is to not forget your self-care or lose yourself in "all the things." It's ok to let a few things "ride" and take a moment to breathe. Go down memory lane often, but create new memories that keep it fresh!
I just found this channel, but I have been living with Schizophrenia, more specifically a subset of, called catatonic schizophrenia, for over 20 years now. I found your videos a little triggering, but, more helpful and therapeutic than anything. My ex wife divorced me 14 years ago, because of my condition, and because of her limited knowledge of the subject, her refusal to learn, and her inability to cope with me and my issues. I hope you continue to educate and inform people what it's like living with schizophrenia.
This is very similar to Clinton and myself - except my primary issue is chronic migraine. Having a partner willing to attend appts and speak from their perspective on what they’ve seen over time; willing to take and sit at the ER; or just go and pick up meds is a blessing!
I just admire and appreciate you both so much. I'm a mom who has a precious son with a beautiful heart and soul and gifted mind. You give me hope for a fulfilling life for him.
My girlfriend has DID from childhood abuse up until 4 months ago when she finally got help in a mental hospital. Her family would have her arrested for acting out. Jail IS NOT the place she needed! The last time she acted out, once again her family called the police. This time the officer made the decision to get her into the emergency room and have her evaluated mentally. I am so grateful the officer made that decision and not have her arrested for the umpteenth time. She will get out in 2 weeks. I miss her tremendously. She is doing very well and is much more coherent than before. I know there’ll be difficult times ahead but I am and I have always been there to support her. I loved her when no one else would. She is a very special person to me and I tell her all the time. She’s been taken advantage of most of her life and I am glad I met her when I did. I feel if I hadn’t met her at that point in time she would not be around today because I am the only one that cared enough to stop the abuse. She thought it was normal. It took a lot of convincing that this is not normal. There’s going to be years of therapy in the future. She and I both have a lot of learning to look forward to, she is worth every second of it. I hope I can make right all the wrongs or as many as I possibly can, that was done to her. That being said, I hope I am in her life for the long haul. It does take two , I have no plans of quitting on her. She deserves so much more than she had in the past.
Jail?! her deeply ignorant family is what made her illness WORST . just keep her far from them all please. I'm impressed...You are a Very Smart, understanding and special human being!!! I wish this world was full of people like you! just keep on loving her and you'll see...she is going to be FINE! ;)
I love you and Lauren’s relationship. I’m glad she has someone as supportive as you . I have bipolar disorder and I know how hard mental illness can be sometimes. Keep the videos coming , I love all of you and Lauren’s videos .
Howdy y'all from here in Denver, Colorado. My names Gregory Knight Tate. I'm a proud schizoaffective bipolar type. I was Diagnosed almost 5 years ago. I would like to say for one, thank you for being SO brave and confident that you were able to put your lifes obstacles up on video while well knowing the stigma and what could come of it. I value your courage and have drawn a lot of my self love from watching how you love yourself thank you Lauren, & Brad. thank you sooo much for bringing truth to what fse beliefs people have about schizoaffective and schizophrenic people. Brad, your a caring & awesome guy!! She's a lucky Girl!! I want to say that I soooooo wish this video could of been made 2 years ago before my lover broke up with me, which was mostly due to misunderstanding or misinterpreting me and what I was dealing with entirely when I was having both negative and positive symptoms Periodically the way that Rob can/Does for you. Possibly If my Ex had watched this vidkeand many others of your earlier in our relationship maybe I wouldn't be alone today. Because of his ignorance almost fear of my disorder due to society's stigma a horrible stigma we all endure, us schizoaffective and schizophrenics I mean have deal with daily tended to as I believe cause him to make fun/poke fun at or be afraid of me at times well not me I mean " my mental obstacle" He never understood, nor really tried to fully. He always thought I had multiple personalities or told me how I was feeling and to our friends and my family who doesn't believe me just him.. I'm not credinle to them these days by doing that it made me look soooooo crazy to everyone. .. had handled my symptoms well. Its be different. May I find my own Rob one day, here's to hoping Sorry for the downer story but its mine and I love it just as I Iove myself! For I'll love myself more then many have or will and I cherish that insight. . Maybe thungs would be different If he had heard robs Testimony/Story about loving you, and your "mental challenges" You're a very lucky lady to have found love that loves you hold onto him def merry this man!!! Email me at gktxd22@gmail.com I'd love to chat with you if you have time to do so. I'd love to have a lily chat or email touns kick me questions I would value your insight and your opinion. If you can't i understand it's a random request from a lone stranger. Have a wlnderful day and keep up the great work!!
Thanks for this, been waiting for something like this for a while! I'm sure there are a few subscribers who don't live with schizophrenia but are in some way close to someone who does, and I don't think there is much advice or support for that, or stories of what it might be like.
Thank You for this vídeo I was diagnosed three months ago I AM 32 when I had My schizofrenia paranoide episode I Lost Jobs studies friends and a boyfriend I hope in the future someone can love me : (
Mery, I'm so sorry for what have happened to you. I don't know you, but I believe that it you are worthy of better people in your life. People who will support you in good and bad. You will find them, sooner or later.
I got one thing to say, accept it as if now you are knowing the difference between you and whoever, stay away from any toxic relation to any thing, love yourself then other will love you back, you are not what you feel or think you are witness what you feel or think. By the way many successful people had and have this condition, art is cure. Dive your self in the world of painting and you see the best side this difference and never ever give up.
You have no idea how much this video helped me. Also, thank you for talking about the lethargy + massive need for sleep. We've been treating with medication for a year now, we've been through a dozen meds and seven doctors, no fucking single soul alive in this world ever mentioned negative symptoms or the sleep. Thank you so much.
My wife has schizophrenia. I have supported her in every aspect of her life for more than 10 years. I took her from a situation of indigence and did eveything to help her to build a good quality life: a home, a job, a medical support, a family who adore her. We passed through one hospitalization when she, accordingly with her psychiatrist, tried to suspend medication. Big mistake, she drew into delusions and never, never fully recovered from this. Now our relation is falling in pieces, for one reason: she wants a child but I am terrified about the potential consequences of this choice. So, she decided that our relation without a child is meaningless. She asked me divorce, and she is searching for renting a flat. Despite she takes all the medications regularly, now her mental health is worsening rapidly. I follow this channel since few months, and I admit I had a shock when Lauren and Rob announced their pregnancy. I really really hope everything will be the best for them. For me, for us, I strongly believe that not having children is the only safe solution for the mental health of both of us. My tips: never bet with medications. If you feel fine, keep them untouched. Caregivers and supporters: take care of yourself first and, most important, don't feel harassers in searching for external help.
My dad has schizophrenia and has a mutual relationship with my mom. My mom doesn’t have any disorder They’re married for 32 years already. And they get along well
This video has greatly helped me, my girlfriend was diagnosed with this a little over a year before we started dating, and it has been challenging. I love her more than anything, and I want this to work. I will be watching this channel more often.
I just wanted to say, your channel has helped me a lot since being diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. It's also helped my husband understand a lot more about my illness. Please don't stop making content like this- its so helpful for couples like ours to see and know. ♥
My relationship is mother and son but you have given me some great information and ways to support my son. Thank you both for sharing your lives with us so we don’t have to reinvent the wheel with everything we live through.
My husband has recently been hospitalized and I wasn't educated on what schizophrenia was until now that I'm taking the time to learn how to support him in this, he is not really sure what it is either and I want to help him understand. We found out we are pregnant with twins and these videos are so helpful in gaining an understanding of everything that has been going on because I saw him slowly go into psychosis and it's hard for him to remember some things. I really want to be there to support him and help him better understand this mental illness and that it doesn't define him as a person because he has trauma from how the hospital has handled him. It's so helpful to hear how you communicate and support your significant other. You both help and educate many people all around the world, keep doing what you do because you both do it well. I admire the love and support you give each other and I think that plays a big role in staying together because when you love someone you want to support them in their personal struggles and just help them get through the hard times because you care and love them. I'm trying my best to learn about this mental illness because I had little knowledge about it. Thank you.
Very good video ! I have bipolar disorder with psychotic features and I have had two psychotic episodes. My husband has been with me through both of them. I totally agree a serious mental illness shouldn't hinder a healthy relationship. He's definitely not a care taker I Patrice a lot of self care. He's more like a support !
@livingwellwithschizophrenia ignoring the ignorant trolls commenting on this wonderful video... You are so understanding of eachother ❤️ of course every relationship has its own diverse challenges but it works for you! It gives me some hope when my brain is full of delusions against my own partner
Thanks for speaking out so openly about this and clarifying misconceptions. Grateful for your work here. For a future video, curious about what working on this channel together has been like for your relationship, and how it shifted your relationship with Lauren's illness :)
Thank you for this video. You keep inspiring us and help break the stigma about mental health and schizophrenia. Thanks to your videos I find myself being more accepting and understanding towards people with it. Love you guys, keep inspiring 💕
Thanks a lot for sharing! I support a loved one with schizophrenia and i must say its not easy but totally worth it cz she's the most humble, caring and amazing person! Just more knowledge can help life to get easier and you both do exactly that. Thanks a lot!👌
I wish my partner would have considered the things I go through and how they could have supported me more like you have for her. that is so awesome and inspiring; being in my 30s now dealing with schizophrenia for a few years and going through these episodes and having negative and positive symptoms have really been a lot to deal with so I'm glad to see that someone is stepping up for their loved ones who are dealing with mental health.. thanking u for sharing both individual aspects.
Also I was so surprised while watching this video when it came to me you may have reached the time to rename your channel!!?❤😊 Living well withOUT Schizophrenia
This speaks volumes of similarities with my relationship with my fiancé with her supporting my having rheumatoid arthritis while we both support each other as any couple would. Even though we’re happy together..this video made me realize that therapy could help and even uncover some MORE possibilities for us. Good luck you two!!! Love your channel!!!
Just saw the end of your vid asking us to add anything regarding relationships involving someone with a chronic illness, mental or not. I’ll message you more later but what immediately pops to mind is COMMUNICATION...and thankfully, it sounds like you two do just that. Again, thank you for your channel!!!
These thoughts are amazing and so helpful! It is so heartening to hear someone who can love and find a reasonable way to live with someone who has a mental illness - and this statement is in no way meant to ignore the value of people who suffer from a mental illness. After all, many find a way to love and live with those who have a physical illness or disability. Illness is not a predictor of value or endearment. I will say that it would be even more helpful to have examples that are like re-enactments of actual situations. You know, we humans aren’t always blessed with the imagination necessary to extrapolate.
This is an excellent video. Thank you for helping people in a way doctors don’t. Relationships require some work and emotional intelligence in addition to love. ☮️
I think you’re both doing a fantastic job with this RUclips channel, hence the reason I recently become a Patreon. Rob, you are so similar to my partner and it is great I have something to show him which doesn’t make him feel so alone in his challenges living and being in a relationship with a person who lives with a chronic mental health illness. Lauren’s story is not too dissimilar to my own and I am so grateful for her courage, honesty and overall sense of kindness in these videos. I think it would be wonderful if you both thought about doing more videos with not just health professionals but others diagnosed with Schizophrenia and their story and journey, and what life is like for others in other parts of the world? Just a thought. Keep up the great work and helping people like us stamp out the stigma and get people talking about facts, not fiction. :)
Hey i just turned 16 and I’ve been recently realizing I have schizophrenia and your videos have helped me so much. Thank you very much for helping me through this
Hey man, im sorry to hear that but i hope your doing good right now. I am 18 now and i am so damn afraid of getting it.. my dad had it already :/ did one of your parents have it aswell? Did you smoke weed or took other drugs? Im really so afraid of it :(
Rob I think so highly of you (& Lauren) and you’re both so blessed to find each other. I remember when you came into Lauren’s life and y’all started these helpful videos. I pray weekly that God send “a Rob“ into my daughters life. She doesn’t believe that anyone will ever marry her with this disease and I’ve told her that wasn’t true. I don’t normally tell her bluntly that what she thinks isn’t true I usually just say I understand and I believe that you believe what you’re believing… if that makes sense. But I believe God will send her someone to love her and be a team player like you have been with Lauren. I hope I’m alive to see it. ❤
The lethargy and 14 hour sleep days is what I do but I recently talked to my doctor and with his blessing I started to take less latuda after 12 years on being on the maximum dose, I struggle with self care as well.
I learn very useful information on this channel. As someone who can relate I appreciate how well you guys deliver this knowledge on such sensitive and stigmatized subject. Thank you for your time.
I am currently dating someone who for the last 2 years has been going in and out of psychosis I got him to go to therapy and he has recently been diagnosed with schizophrenia he only just started meds so he still goes into psychosis this video has been very helpful hearing someone else who is also going through the same thing
I have to say as a person with sza this video really helped me see the other side of it. I got divorced a couple years ago, and I think one of the reasons my relationship failed was because my ex was much more of a caregiver. I also think part of the problem was that I used my wife as a therapist instead of trying to set boundaries with the things we discussed. My ex ended up traumatized by some of the delusions I was having, and I think if I was not so blunt with them about what was going on in my brain they would have been safer in their own mind.
My bf has the same thing, I’ve grown to really just love everything about him. In the beginning it was hard bc I wasn’t used to a situation like this . We’ve been together for 8mths , he’s been after me for 3yrs and I finally gave him a chance. He’s the most loving, caring, & romantic man I’ve ever met. Now that we’re getting ready to move out I question how I could better help him. How I can better aid him on his journey. You’re videos are really helpful so thank you so much for making these 🙏🏾
Were you living together previously and moving to separate living situations? I'd love to connect. My partner lives with schizophrenia and we just broke up. I'm really sad and in love with him.
My brother has schizophrenia, it was on a borderline, I think what helped in his recovery was his decision to leave the city and take up farming. He is 44 and lives with my parents. Today he has no symptoms, but he is still on medication. His memory, his articulation skills, social skills and sense of humor are still unaffected, thank god! Sometimes I feel he is better than any person without mental illness. However it’s not so easy in India, it’s a taboo , i hope he finds a partner who accepts him for what he is.
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I cried throught this whole video I was married to someone who delt with schizoaffective disorder. He passed from a massive heart attack last year here at home. We were married 25 years and have went through everything you have. I never thought of myself as a caregiver only his support. I loved him with my whole heart! Why do people think just because a person that has mental health issues can NOT or don't deserve love and marriage. So much bad press have been put out by the media about how dangerous people with schizophrenia are. I spent my whole life with him breaking down to people the myths and what is true about this. I am not here to tell you it wasn't hard because it was! He was hospitalized several times over our 25 years together. But he also held down a full time job and was a well thought of person within our circle of friends. Was he perfect No was I perfect No! Did I always handle things they way they should have been handled again No. We had problems at 1st with him not wanting to take his meds then it switched down the line he wanted to take everything he could find to drown out the voices he heard. He went from a very loving person to a person who barely spoke to me. It truly was a roll coaster ride. But the love we had for each other kept us together through thick and thin. I miss him so much sometimes it's hard to go on. But one thing I do know I wouldn't trade the years I had with him and all the good and terrible times we went though for anyone else! I miss you baby! Thank you so much for putting out such a true video
that it can be so hard but if you really love someone enough and educate yourself on what to expect you can live and love someone without fear.
You are such a good soul❤️
So sorry for you loss Joann. I know how hard it is. I lost my husband this past May. Your a wonderful person God bless you...
❤️
Joann Clubb your story sounds so much like what I’ve been going through for 32 years
Joann, my heart aches for you because I understand how you feel. My partner for 10 years was schizophrenic. He quit taking his medication because he didn't like the side effects and started to self medicate with alcohol, which led to his death in 2019. We went through a lot in those 10 years. His mental issues never stopped us from having a good time and enjoying our life together The years when he took his meds and went to the doctor were so good. When he stopped, things were difficult. He was hospitalized. He had a few psychotic episodes. I wish this video was around then. I felt so alone in trying to give him the best support I could when he was hearing voices. He was always so ashamed of his diagnosis and it was a big secret. He was on disability and was unable to work because of it. But he was a good guy and we loved one another. I was never, ever scared of him. I hate how people are afraid. Joann you are a good person for being with your husband for 25 years. I hope the lesson you learned can help others. Blessing to you.
my boyfriend was diagnosed with it- he had several episodes of it and we didn’t know what it was. in 2018, he had it the worse- he ended up going homeless and the whole time i stayed with him. it takes a lot of patience and unconditional love and support. we’ve been together for 5 years and i wouldn’t want it any other way.❤️
I just got in a relationship with a guy who has this. I don’t know how be there for him as I know nothing about this illness. Please if you have any advice let me know. I really wanna give him a chance 😞
@@keyv5872 I’ve found only a couple videos on it but the sad reality truth is if their not on their medication it’s not safe to be around them. They can go into a manic episode at any moment.
@@StacyScorpio you’re right. I found out he stopped taking them. We ended things shortly after. Thanks for the advice 🙏🏻
thank all of you for sharing your experience. my girlfriend had her first psychosis episode just about 2 months ago. sadly, it was very persecutory in nature, and she held me at knife point for a few hours until I was able to get free and a crisis intervention team came to intervene. the entire time all I could think of is how alone she must feel, and how much it must suck to no longer be able to trust anybody you trusted before. she went from behavorial health facility to behavorial health facility for about a month until she was just let out, without contact being made to her family or I. when we finally got the information out of them, they told us that she had been given an all day pass to get taken to a homeless shelter. which she never made it to. she was missing for 8 days, wandering the streets. luckily she was found on that 8th day, but she and I hardly talked from that point forward, as she was with her family. I wanted to be there for her but was often met with, "that may not be the best idea, we don't want to cause any other episode." but I had known about how she had an eating disorder, which she's struggled with for quite a while, and I wanted to help in any way I could. sadly, randomly, she stopped replying to me for 8 days. on the 8th day, I tried reaching out to her family to see if anything had happened, and I was informed that she had passed that same day, but they refused to give me any information as to how she died. why? I do not know, but I am trying my hardest to come to terms with it. it's so hard. she really was the woman I loved. we had been together for 7-8 years, but known each other over 10 years. I had always tried to advocate for us getting therapy, just seems like she couldn't take that step. all I can really do now is tske everything she's taught me and given me, and apply it where I can. she gave me a new perspective on mental illness ans just how serious it can get. my entire life feels different. I want to do everything I can to help everyone I can reach. to help take stigma away from things like this. she was the kindest soul and deserves to be remembered as such. I loved her, and I always will love her.
@@nonstopqs4188sorry to hear ❤❤❤
this channel is a great way to expose people to what it actually means to live with mental disease. congrats on it: your work is important and makes a difference
In my very limited experience with primary psychotic disorders; the patients who have the best outcomes usually have one thing in common. Someone that deeply cares about them. I believe Lauren's prognosis is a lot brighter with you in her life.
It's nice that you classify yourself as her support and not her caregiver, personally I think that's a great balance to keeping peace in the relationship. Keep up the great work you guys.
Agree. It makes it sound more like a partnership
I think it’s important to note though that there are romantic relationships where the term “caregiver” is appropriate for one of the partners, and that dynamic doesn’t have to diminish the ability of the person being “cared for” to contribute to the relationship. For example the RUclips channel Squirmy and Grubs is run by a couple in which one of the partners has muscular dystrophy and the other partner is his caregiver. That’s how they refer to each other and they often describe how it still very much feels like a balanced partnership
he's her LOVING HUSBAND not a caregiver.
You are a good man. I’ve been dealing with my wife’s negative symptoms for 15 years. It’s hard but I love her.
Wow! You guys are so brave ❤..I’ve been dumped by men, one a husband, for being very emotional & moody, and I’m not even schizophrenic. That’s amazing to me!
I have schizoaffective and my husband is my soulmate and a great support. We're going on 14 yrs married far from easy but so worth it! When you find your soulmate your special tried and true try your best to stay together and pray and love each other genuinely forever.
I can’t express how grateful I feel for finding your channel. My girlfriend has schizophrenia and suffers from alcohol abuse as well. We’ve been together for 2 years last month. But unfortunately right now we’re on a break. The information you’re providing is bringing me to understand more and may help us stay together. Thank you so so much🙏🏻
my girlfriend has schizophrenia and i can relate with many things you said. one of the most difficult moments is when she doesn’t want to take the medication and I always try to somehow make her understand the importance of the medication but sometimes it doesn’t work out so thank you very much for the tip you gave. it's great that you and lauren talk about what schizophrenia really is and help people to know more about it
I think my father had schizophrenia, but know I can't get a straight answer from my family. There was a lot of secretiveness, which didn't help, but actually made things scarier. It is so refreshing to see a couple working together honestly, and sharing their experiences with others. Thank you for helping to destigmatize mental illness.
Well said. My best friend has schizophrenia. He is such an amazing person. I have been able to recognise when he is having episodes and such.
What you do when he is dealing with his episodes?
All I can say is thank you for making this video and sharing your experiences with those who are currently struggling. The simplicity and genuine thoughtfulness in your words is just perfect, and the message was fully heard.
They sound so similar to each other. They use the same verbiage and everything. Cute
I was thinking this the entire time too :)
@@sourgummiez and a sativa and the baby doing good just working
Almost as if it's scripted :) like this channel. They're just too positive about everything, with a very special focus on taking medication.
Ah yes! wow, you noticed that too...lol...!!! little details us detail oriented folks lol
i think and believe they are soulmates xoxoxox
He is such a caring partner and a big support. Thanks so much for this! It really helps me and my partner deal with the day to day worries of schizophrenia.
Thanks again!
My husband also has schizoaffective disorded, I can relate to most of the things you are saying. Especially hard for us are those negative symptoms because we have twins and it is something that we have been dealing with even before they were born. They are now 4 years old and sometimes it has been really challenge. Sometimes I feel like all that caring about them is on me and only me. I don't mind but I am only human and I have a job and sometimes I just need a bit of rest or support, besides they are old enough to ask for him and ask why is dad sleeping and so on. My advice to others would be to communicate (as peacefully as possible) and to not get settled with it, at least try to make it better together and even if it seems like it is not working, it will get better slowly over time, bit by bit. Like you said, every relationship has its bumps on the road and this is not different.
(from Brazil)
Hello, i am diagnosed bipolar 2 and last year spent one week at the hospital. There i make good friends that has schizophrenia and while watching this videos i am very happy to understand them better. You make a delicated job presenting your particularities to others. With sharing who we are we create conditions for respect and understand. You made me more capable of understanding my new friends and i love them more because of your videos.
Thank you =)
Sounds like you're a very compassionate guy. I have a similar diagnosis so my deepest sympathies
Commenting from 2024 and your line about “this is not something that’s just going to go away” really hits hard in light of Lauren’s remission thanks to the medical ketogenic diet and metabolic therapies. I wish you all the happiness. May each year be better than the one before.
Dude, this hit home. My wife just finally admitted to having schizophrenia after 2 years of going through everything you talked about in this video. Me being an Iraq veteran with my own ptsd issues, handled this all wrong and tried to fix it and reason with it. You can not do that with people that have this mental illness. You are correct about just trying to be supportive and let them just do their own thing. We haven't found a medication that has worked for her yet. If anyone has any secrets to help with this, please let me know
oh man you are both so passionated about each other and so understanding.
specially when Lauren or now also Rob talks about the disorder, it feels like a thing you work *together* on - which is so beautiful
My cousin was diagnosed with schizophrenia few weeks ago. This channel has been grate for me, I'm learning how best help her. Thank you
I myself have BPD so I already understand how difficult it was to love someone with mental illness but with my boyfriend, I learned when we started dating he had schizophrenia and BPD.He doesn’t take medication anymore, and was a past addict. A lot of times when he has his episodes, it takes so much of my mental willpower to remain grounded and communicate with him. Thank you so much for bringing light into this. I feel so alone.
I wait so anxiously to each one of your vídeos! And you never let me down. Love you guys
Thank you both for doing this ❤️
I'm so glad that you made this video. It doesn't only show the understanding, loving and supportive partner. It shows that there have been doubts, issues, troubles and all of that. Because dealing with someone who is struggling with a disability or extreme mental condition isn't easy, for both people. You're doing great and you're both strong and wonderful people.
It is absolutely disgusting that people dismiss the intentions of the mentally ill in such a crude and personally hurtful way. I thank you for your sentiments. All humans need each other. There's no shame in that.
Very astute observations. Your patience and care is very Admirable.
19:25 awwwwwwweeeeee ❤️❤️❤️ You two are such beautiful beings. Thank you for sharing your lives with us ❤️
Thanks for correcting a misconception I had harboured. I found this very honest an admission when you say how you're not a caregiver to Lauren but more of a partner that supports and doesn't overstep their boundaries while doing that!
Thank you for this message! I just got married and have mental illness and struggle with a lot of this fear. Thanks for helping navigate some of those topics!
What a great video Rob. Both you and Lauren are so articulate and these videos are so helpful to not pmly people livi g with the condition but for those living with someone with the condition so that we can understand and help support them. I love the way you call yourself Laurens support and not her caregiver as she is your equal in all ways albeit with additional challenges. You two are an awesome partnership.
Thank you for making this video. I love someone who has this same disorder and I felt the same, thinking that he was mad at me when he wasn't at all and was suffering emotionally and mentally. Understanding what they're going through is so important! You're doing a wonderful thing by helping people understand what she goes through and what you go through too.
You're a lucky guy, Lauren is great!
Thank you for sharing .. my bf has schizophrenia and has been very challenging for us both .. I love your honesty and compassion
Where is your rlnp now? (If you don't mind sharing)
So happy you have each other. From what I've seen on this channel you are both very lovely people.
Incredible. You are so brave and real. Please continue
Awesome video. Thank you so much for sharing. I’d like to add something: a key to making your relationship work with Lauren is that she acknowledges and accepts her diagnosis and is in treatment, even if she has doubts or it is hard for her sometimes. It is extremely difficult to be in a romantic relationship (or any relationship) with someone who refuses to get diagnosed, accept their diagnosis, comply with treatment, work on coping skills, etc.
I am Lauren in this equation; I have bipolar-type schizoaffective disorder like she does. My ex-fiancé has autism but refused to get diagnosed until a month before we broke up. For the entire 6 years before that, and 7 prior years of friendship before THAT, he refused to do anything to help himself and expected me to figure his life out for him. It was extremely hard on me, especially given my own challenges. I got very physically sick from all the stress and had to break it off. I just couldn’t do it anymore.
Please understand, I am NOT saying that all people with autism are like my ex. Many accept it and do everything they can to help themselves. The bottom line is that no matter what a person’s challenges are, no one else can truly help or support them if they won’t help themselves. To anyone who reads this, DO NOT waste your time and energy on a person like that. You can’t force them to be an adult, and that’s not your fault.
My partner is newly diagnosed schizoaffective bipolar, and giving up on him was never an option! I love him so much, and I’m ever more determined after having to call the police yesterday whilst holding him and the knife he was cutting himself with during a psychotic crisis. He is the kindest and most loving human being and he doesn’t deserve to feel like that. But since I can’t take the illness away, I will do the next best which is stand by his side and help him manage his illness the best we can, so we can live well with schizophrenia! Thank you both for all your videos, you are saving lives rest assured!
I love listening to someone speak with emotional honesty and positive intention!
The work you guys are doing is so important!!
Thank you. I can relate to everything you said here. It is possible to be in a meaningful, loving, healthy relationship. I support my spouse. The real key is to not forget your self-care or lose yourself in "all the things." It's ok to let a few things "ride" and take a moment to breathe. Go down memory lane often, but create new memories that keep it fresh!
I just found this channel, but I have been living with Schizophrenia, more specifically a subset of, called catatonic schizophrenia, for over 20 years now. I found your videos a little triggering, but, more helpful and therapeutic than anything. My ex wife divorced me 14 years ago, because of my condition, and because of her limited knowledge of the subject, her refusal to learn, and her inability to cope with me and my issues. I hope you continue to educate and inform people what it's like living with schizophrenia.
This is very similar to Clinton and myself - except my primary issue is chronic migraine. Having a partner willing to attend appts and speak from their perspective on what they’ve seen over time; willing to take and sit at the ER; or just go and pick up meds is a blessing!
I just admire and appreciate you both so much. I'm a mom who has a precious son with a beautiful heart and soul and gifted mind. You give me hope for a fulfilling life for him.
So sweet, you both talk the same.
I could listen to them talk all day. Lol
My girlfriend has DID from childhood abuse up until 4 months ago when she finally got help in a mental hospital. Her family would have her arrested for acting out. Jail IS NOT the place she needed! The last time she acted out, once again her family called the police. This time the officer made the decision to get her into the emergency room and have her evaluated mentally. I am so grateful the officer made that decision and not have her arrested for the umpteenth time. She will get out in 2 weeks.
I miss her tremendously. She is doing very well and is much more coherent than before. I know there’ll be difficult times ahead but I am and I have always been there to support her. I loved her when no one else would. She is a very special person to me and I tell her all the time. She’s been taken advantage of most of her life and I am glad I met her when I did. I feel if I hadn’t met her at that point in time she would not be around today because I am the only one that cared enough to stop the abuse. She thought it was normal. It took a lot of convincing that this is not normal.
There’s going to be years of therapy in the future. She and I both have a lot of learning to look forward to, she is worth every second of it. I hope I can make right all the wrongs or as many as I possibly can, that was done to her. That being said, I hope I am in her life for the long haul. It does take two , I have no plans of quitting on her. She deserves so much more than she had in the past.
Jail?! her deeply ignorant family is what made her illness WORST . just keep her far from them all please. I'm impressed...You are a Very Smart, understanding and special human being!!! I wish this world was full of people like you! just keep on loving her and you'll see...she is going to be FINE! ;)
I love you and Lauren’s relationship. I’m glad she has someone as supportive as you . I have bipolar disorder and I know how hard mental illness can be sometimes. Keep the videos coming , I love all of you and Lauren’s videos .
This couple is so beautiful. I appreciate this so much.
This is sweet. Reminds me of my own relationship a little bit. I have learnt good communication techniques through these videos also.
Howdy y'all from here in Denver, Colorado.
My names Gregory Knight Tate. I'm a proud schizoaffective bipolar type. I was Diagnosed almost 5 years ago.
I would like to say for one, thank you for being SO brave and confident that you were able to put your lifes obstacles up on video while well knowing the stigma and what could come of it. I value your courage and have drawn a lot of my self love from watching how you love yourself thank you Lauren, & Brad.
thank you sooo much for bringing truth to what fse beliefs people have about schizoaffective and schizophrenic people.
Brad, your a caring & awesome guy!! She's a lucky Girl!!
I want to say that I soooooo wish this video could of been made 2 years ago before my lover broke up with me, which was mostly due to misunderstanding or misinterpreting me and what I was dealing with entirely when I was having both negative and positive symptoms Periodically the way that Rob can/Does for you.
Possibly If my Ex had watched this vidkeand many others of your earlier in our relationship maybe I wouldn't be alone today.
Because of his ignorance almost fear of my disorder due to society's stigma a horrible stigma we all endure, us schizoaffective and schizophrenics I mean have deal with daily tended to as I believe cause him to make fun/poke fun at or be afraid of me at times well not me I mean " my mental obstacle"
He never understood, nor really tried to fully.
He always thought I had multiple personalities or told me how I was feeling and to our friends and my family who doesn't believe me just him.. I'm not credinle to them these days by doing that it made me look soooooo crazy to everyone. .. had handled my symptoms well. Its be different.
May I find my own Rob one day, here's to hoping
Sorry for the downer story but its mine and I love it just as I Iove myself! For I'll love myself more then many have or will and I cherish that insight. .
Maybe thungs would be different If he had heard robs Testimony/Story about loving you, and your "mental challenges"
You're a very lucky lady to have found love that loves you hold onto him def merry this man!!!
Email me at gktxd22@gmail.com I'd love to chat with you if you have time to do so. I'd love to have a lily chat or email touns kick me questions I would value your insight and your opinion.
If you can't i understand it's a random request from a lone stranger.
Have a wlnderful day and keep up the great work!!
You do a great job Rob!
This was excellent! Thanks for taking time to do this.
Thanks for this, been waiting for something like this for a while! I'm sure there are a few subscribers who don't live with schizophrenia but are in some way close to someone who does, and I don't think there is much advice or support for that, or stories of what it might be like.
Thank You for this vídeo I was diagnosed three months ago I AM 32 when I had My schizofrenia paranoide episode I Lost Jobs studies friends and a boyfriend I hope in the future someone can love me : (
Mery, I'm so sorry for what have happened to you. I don't know you, but I believe that it you are worthy of better people in your life. People who will support you in good and bad. You will find them, sooner or later.
@@handsanitizermk.268 Thank You so much for your piece of advice blessings and hugs
Be at peace with thoughts, just that.
@@alitaghavi4970 thank you it Is hard
I got one thing to say, accept it as if now you are knowing the difference between you and whoever, stay away from any toxic relation to any thing, love yourself then other will love you back, you are not what you feel or think you are witness what you feel or think. By the way many successful people had and have this condition, art is cure. Dive your self in the world of painting and you see the best side this difference and never ever give up.
You really know your stuff. It shows you really care about her.
your a good man rob.
You have no idea how much this video helped me.
Also, thank you for talking about the lethargy + massive need for sleep. We've been treating with medication for a year now, we've been through a dozen meds and seven doctors, no fucking single soul alive in this world ever mentioned negative symptoms or the sleep. Thank you so much.
My wife has schizophrenia. I have supported her in every aspect of her life for more than 10 years. I took her from a situation of indigence and did eveything to help her to build a good quality life: a home, a job, a medical support, a family who adore her. We passed through one hospitalization when she, accordingly with her psychiatrist, tried to suspend medication. Big mistake, she drew into delusions and never, never fully recovered from this. Now our relation is falling in pieces, for one reason: she wants a child but I am terrified about the potential consequences of this choice. So, she decided that our relation without a child is meaningless. She asked me divorce, and she is searching for renting a flat. Despite she takes all the medications regularly, now her mental health is worsening rapidly. I follow this channel since few months, and I admit I had a shock when Lauren and Rob announced their pregnancy. I really really hope everything will be the best for them. For me, for us, I strongly believe that not having children is the only safe solution for the mental health of both of us. My tips: never bet with medications. If you feel fine, keep them untouched. Caregivers and supporters: take care of yourself first and, most important, don't feel harassers in searching for external help.
My dad has schizophrenia and has a mutual relationship with my mom. My mom doesn’t have any disorder They’re married for 32 years already. And they get along well
Did you inherit anything of his illness? I have schizophrenia and am kinda worried about passing it on.
Philipp Knechtle My dad had it and im really afraid of getting it aswell now :(
This helped me ty. My boyfriend is a recovering schizophrenic. He's on nighttime clozapine. Meds
This is beautiful! I wish my ex would have watched this or was as understanding as he is. Thank you for showing this aspect of schizophrenia
This video has greatly helped me, my girlfriend was diagnosed with this a little over a year before we started dating, and it has been challenging. I love her more than anything, and I want this to work. I will be watching this channel more often.
How is it going (if you don't mind sharing)?
I just wanted to say, your channel has helped me a lot since being diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder.
It's also helped my husband understand a lot more about my illness. Please don't stop making content like this- its so helpful for couples like ours to see and know. ♥
Can you make a video on what the hospital stay is like and what family members should be aware of and should not allow the nurses and doctors to do?
My relationship is mother and son but you have given me some great information and ways to support my son. Thank you both for sharing your lives with us so we don’t have to reinvent the wheel with everything we live through.
You guys are an inspiration-both of you..The love between you two is true love and yours is the perfect example of a healthy relationship
My husband has recently been hospitalized and I wasn't educated on what schizophrenia was until now that I'm taking the time to learn how to support him in this, he is not really sure what it is either and I want to help him understand. We found out we are pregnant with twins and these videos are so helpful in gaining an understanding of everything that has been going on because I saw him slowly go into psychosis and it's hard for him to remember some things. I really want to be there to support him and help him better understand this mental illness and that it doesn't define him as a person because he has trauma from how the hospital has handled him. It's so helpful to hear how you communicate and support your significant other. You both help and educate many people all around the world, keep doing what you do because you both do it well. I admire the love and support you give each other and I think that plays a big role in staying together because when you love someone you want to support them in their personal struggles and just help them get through the hard times because you care and love them. I'm trying my best to learn about this mental illness because I had little knowledge about it. Thank you.
Very good video ! I have bipolar disorder with psychotic features and I have had two psychotic episodes. My husband has been with me through both of them. I totally agree a serious mental illness shouldn't hinder a healthy relationship. He's definitely not a care taker I Patrice a lot of self care. He's more like a support !
God wishes to you and your Husband 🙏
This guy is a jewel. He is Lauren't guardain angel
@livingwellwithschizophrenia ignoring the ignorant trolls commenting on this wonderful video... You are so understanding of eachother ❤️ of course every relationship has its own diverse challenges but it works for you! It gives me some hope when my brain is full of delusions against my own partner
Thanks for speaking out so openly about this and clarifying misconceptions. Grateful for your work here. For a future video, curious about what working on this channel together has been like for your relationship, and how it shifted your relationship with Lauren's illness :)
Thank you for this video. You keep inspiring us and help break the stigma about mental health and schizophrenia. Thanks to your videos I find myself being more accepting and understanding towards people with it. Love you guys, keep inspiring 💕
This was very eye opening. Thank you!
Thanks a lot for sharing! I support a loved one with schizophrenia and i must say its not easy but totally worth it cz she's the most humble, caring and amazing person! Just more knowledge can help life to get easier and you both do exactly that. Thanks a lot!👌
I wish my partner would have considered the things I go through and how they could have supported me more like you have for her. that is so awesome and inspiring; being in my 30s now dealing with schizophrenia for a few years and going through these episodes and having negative and positive symptoms have really been a lot to deal with so I'm glad to see that someone is stepping up for their loved ones who are dealing with mental health.. thanking u for sharing both individual aspects.
Also I was so surprised while watching this video when it came to me you may have reached the time to rename your channel!!?❤😊
Living well withOUT Schizophrenia
This speaks volumes of similarities with my relationship with my fiancé with her supporting my having rheumatoid arthritis while we both support each other as any couple would. Even though we’re happy together..this video made me realize that therapy could help and even uncover some MORE possibilities for us. Good luck you two!!! Love your channel!!!
Just saw the end of your vid asking us to add anything regarding relationships involving someone with a chronic illness, mental or not. I’ll message you more later but what immediately pops to mind is COMMUNICATION...and thankfully, it sounds like you two do just that. Again, thank you for your channel!!!
Important work. Both of you. Thank you!
These thoughts are amazing and so helpful! It is so heartening to hear someone who can love and find a reasonable way to live with someone who has a mental illness - and this statement is in no
way meant to ignore the value of people who suffer from a mental illness. After all, many find a way to love and live with those who have a physical illness or disability. Illness is not a predictor of value or endearment. I will say that it would be even more helpful to have examples that are like re-enactments of actual situations. You know, we humans aren’t always blessed with the imagination necessary to extrapolate.
This is an excellent video. Thank you for helping people in a way doctors don’t. Relationships require some work and emotional intelligence in addition to love. ☮️
I think you’re both doing a fantastic job with this RUclips channel, hence the reason I recently become a Patreon. Rob, you are so similar to my partner and it is great I have something to show him which doesn’t make him feel so alone in his challenges living and being in a relationship with a person who lives with a chronic mental health illness. Lauren’s story is not too dissimilar to my own and I am so grateful for her courage, honesty and overall sense of kindness in these videos. I think it would be wonderful if you both thought about doing more videos with not just health professionals but others diagnosed with Schizophrenia and their story and journey, and what life is like for others in other parts of the world? Just a thought. Keep up the great work and helping people like us stamp out the stigma and get people talking about facts, not fiction. :)
God bless you both.
Thank you Rob! Glad you guys are working on this project/show.
Hey i just turned 16 and I’ve been recently realizing I have schizophrenia and your videos have helped me so much. Thank you very much for helping me through this
Hey man, im sorry to hear that but i hope your doing good right now. I am 18 now and i am so damn afraid of getting it.. my dad had it already :/ did one of your parents have it aswell? Did you smoke weed or took other drugs? Im really so afraid of it :(
Rob I think so highly of you (& Lauren) and you’re both so blessed to find each other. I remember when you came into Lauren’s life and y’all started these helpful videos. I pray weekly that God send “a Rob“ into my daughters life. She doesn’t believe that anyone will ever marry her with this disease and I’ve told her that wasn’t true. I don’t normally tell her bluntly that what she thinks isn’t true I usually just say I understand and I believe that you believe what you’re believing… if that makes sense. But I believe God will send her someone to love her and be a team player like you have been with Lauren. I hope I’m alive to see it. ❤
Thank you Rob for sharing your perspective, it has been so helpful for me!
The lethargy and 14 hour sleep days is what I do but I recently talked to my doctor and with his blessing I started to take less latuda after 12 years on being on the maximum dose, I struggle with self care as well.
You’re a good man Rob. Lucky Lauren.
I learn very useful information on this channel. As someone who can relate I appreciate how well you guys deliver this knowledge on such sensitive and stigmatized subject. Thank you for your time.
Very loving and brave inspiring .
I am currently dating someone who for the last 2 years has been going in and out of psychosis I got him to go to therapy and he has recently been diagnosed with schizophrenia he only just started meds so he still goes into psychosis this video has been very helpful hearing someone else who is also going through the same thing
I have to say as a person with sza this video really helped me see the other side of it. I got divorced a couple years ago, and I think one of the reasons my relationship failed was because my ex was much more of a caregiver. I also think part of the problem was that I used my wife as a therapist instead of trying to set boundaries with the things we discussed. My ex ended up traumatized by some of the delusions I was having, and I think if I was not so blunt with them about what was going on in my brain they would have been safer in their own mind.
This gives me hope, thank you ❤️
positive video that was helpful to me and understanding the illness better
My bf has the same thing, I’ve grown to really just love everything about him. In the beginning it was hard bc I wasn’t used to a situation like this . We’ve been together for 8mths , he’s been after me for 3yrs and I finally gave him a chance. He’s the most loving, caring, & romantic man I’ve ever met. Now that we’re getting ready to move out I question how I could better help him. How I can better aid him on his journey. You’re videos are really helpful so thank you so much for making these 🙏🏾
Were you living together previously and moving to separate living situations? I'd love to connect. My partner lives with schizophrenia and we just broke up. I'm really sad and in love with him.
Best wishes for love and happiness.
My brother has schizophrenia, it was on a borderline, I think what helped in his recovery was his decision to leave the city and take up farming. He is 44 and lives with my parents. Today he has no symptoms, but he is still on medication. His memory, his articulation skills, social skills and sense of humor are still unaffected, thank god! Sometimes I feel he is better than any person without mental illness. However it’s not so easy in India, it’s a taboo , i hope he finds a partner who accepts him for what he is.
Thank you for your channel your bravery and just straight up real info...you guys are really helpful
Ditto, a brilliant analysis of relationships with a person with mental health issues.
Okay but the thumbnail is so fucking adorable ❤️
This guy is winning. Go Lauren!!!