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Fellow schizophrenic here. I was pregnant while on anti psychotic meds and my daughter is now 25 and in wonderful health with no signs of schizophrenia! Congratulations to you both
Congraaaaats !! Don't feel the need to over-share about this experience just because you have this platform. Keep as much of it as private as is comfortable for you. Wishing you the best !
If you feel comfortable, I’d love to see “journal” style videos throughout your pregnancy. What you’re thinking and feeling and experiencing. The videos could help SOO many people, the content you make is really high quality and there also aren’t many people doing it so I think it stands out. Rob is right, the beginning is the biggest hurdle!! You’re passed the huge shift and alllll the changes. I’m so proud of you. Everything is gonna be smooth sailing ❤️❤️❤️ you guys are amazing
I would absolutely like to see more about your journey while pregnant, becuase it's something so many people have to deal with. I don't have a uterus, but it still helps me contextualize the struggles my peers (like you) are dealing with because of their pregnancies. Also, I started a hormone therapy earlier this year, and it had made my med schedule into a bit of a circus while my body adjusted, but it's back to normal again now that my body has figured itself out. Don't be surprised if you continue to have symptoms from hormone fluctuation during (and even after) your remaining trimesters. Your body will eventually figure itself out, so keep the hope alive. One more thought: My wife had to start new meds while pregnant. That didn't make her a failure, but I totally understand why it feels that way. Please don't beat yourself up over doing your best to live with a brain and body that aren't medical ideals. Your journey and needs are valid, and I'm so glad you've found some stability. I just hope you don't feel too bad about the details of that stability, because the best thing you can give yourself, Rob, and your children is a (generally) stable parent who loves them. (Lord knows I have to remind myself of that regularly.)
*" I don't have a uterus"* You got me with this. This is the best comment I have seen a husband ever write from a husband. *Bravo you! B R A V O!* Much love to you and your wife (and child?ren). You are a wonderful person with so much compassion and such a wonderful brain to want to learn more about your wife's body.
congratulations!! Please don't be too hard on yourself with taking medication. If you were diabatic, for example, you'd continue taking your insulin- mental health meds shouldn't be different!
Congrats! My sister was pregnant and she was on antipsychotics, her doctor ask her to reduce the dose, when she did though, the symptoms came back and was severe.. So she went back to her usual dose, but the danger may occur in breastfeeding, so now she does not breastfeed her girl.. Would like to know how ut goes with you! Wish you all the best
Breastfeeding is essential for immune system. And schizophrenia is an impairment of immune system among other things (brain, nervous, digestive). The best alternative is to find a healthy woman who is breastfeeding her own child and is willing to help.
@@Burevestnik9M730 Actually, this statement is not founded in modern research. The advantage of breastfeeding over formula has been largely over exaggerated and fraught with biased research. If you are interested in the research, I recommend looking at the meta data that Emily Oster has compiled and analyzed in Crib Sheets.
@@Chezlshay In a pool of huge unknowns that characterize human physiology, I will choose a natural way over other options any time of the day. In other words, I would do it as the nature intended.
@@sabrinacorbello4428 They usually say Abilify (aripiprazole) is the one with the least amount of side effects e.g. weight gain, sedation, etc. What was your experience with Abilify and what dosages you were taking?
Yes please keep sharing updates on your pregnancy journey! I don't plan on having children, especially biological children but I think that anyone can draw strength, hope and inspiration from watching you be so brave and tackle normal life changes/challenges. No matter what you post I think it's always very well presented and very informative and I think the community can also be a big support to you!
Congratulations. My mum has schizoaffective disorder as well. She was originally diagnosed with just schizophrenia in her early 20's but a few years ago when I was a bit younger was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. She took all of her medications whilst pregnant with me as she needs medication to keep her well. As long as you have good doctors to support you and your little bub, all should be fine. Would be interesting to follow along in the new journey of yours. A new follower to by the way. Again congrats and I hope the rest of your pregnancy goes smoothly.
Always remember that mental health is health. Many people with physical illnesses stay on medications during pregnancy, and mental illness is no different. It does not make you lesser or a failure to have to remain on meds. It is a part of life. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and hoping for the best! You are so inspiring!
Congratulations!!!! Thanks for sharing. I immediately forwarded the video to my 20 yrs-old daughter. She was recently diagnosed and becoming a mother in the future is a dream of hers. I wish you three the best. Thank you!!!
Congratulations. You must be thrilled. I went through 2 pregnancies on some psychiatric medications. May babies were just fine. I was worried about causing them mental health issues with the mood disorder. They are great though, have less mental health problems than a lot of their friends, and are compassionate and open-minded about people’s challenges. I wish the same for you.
I love you guys. I’m a medical professional who has many experiences with people affected by this disorder. You help me to be able to understand this and hopefully give better care. Thank you and the BEST WISHES for you both. Another word of advice is you know your body and brain. You need to do what is best for you as healthy happy mom means healthy happy baby!!
You two are going to be fantastic parents. Your baby will have parents that love them and are always thinking about what's best for them, and that is such a beautiful thing. All of your failures, all of the times that you feel you fall short... those things are so, so small compared to the love you obviously already have for your baby. Congratulations, I'm excited to get to ride along on your journey into parenthood. 💛
I completely agree with this and more that the stats on schizophrenia are that even if your kid does get it the prognosis for recovery and better living with it increases as experience with the disease increases.
@@daisy7066 It is genetically passed down. It is one of several heterogeneous viral diseases like Cancer and Huntington's that is passed down. It doesn't guarentee that you will get it, not is it "viral" or contagious in th sense of infection as many anti-vaxxers on Vancouver Island fallaciously believe, but one's environment and events especially in early childhood make one suseptable to acquiring a variety of mental health issues that can crop up anywhere from childhood till generally age 30ish. I must add that not everyone who acquires a mental health diagnosis has a heterogeneous catalysis. I don't know the percentage off hand of that statistic. But with the massive prevalence of Cancer and Heart Disease for instance, climate change and pollution and diet have a more than 80% determination and inheritance is only at about a 15 - 20% determination at this time.
Congratulations!!!! I deal with anxiety depression and schitzophrenia and I had a child and although things aren’t perfect... children are our life and they bring out the best in you! Stay positive you will be an amazing mother !!!!! GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!
Congratulations to you both! I look forward to continuing to hear your story and how you live with Schizophrenia. Thank you for sharing your life with us and taking the stigma out of Schizophrenia, and in turn helping to take the stigma out of mental illness in general.
Oh my! I forgot to say congrats!! I also do suffer from mental illness and went off all meds when I found out. It was a disaster for me. My doc put me back on and helped me. I felt guilty for taking something that could be potentially harmful to my baby. However, I went on to have a beautiful healthy happy baby and I wish the same for you. Hope that helps 😘
Congratulations! I think sharing your personal experience with navigating pregnancy and mental wellness would be extremely valuable to continue to discuss! Seems like it isn’t talked about nearly enough! Thank you for posting such important content!
My Mother has schizophrenia and was in medication when she’s was pregnant with me. I cannot tell you enough how much I value your channel. It has helped me better understand what she went through dealing with this illness. It has helped me in my healing journey. My Mom was incredibly ill and was hospitalized for several months a year but she fought so hard just to be my Mother. I was very fortunate that my father loved and supported her treatment and we had wonderful family that helped when she became ill. I would really like to follow your motherhood journey to continue to learn how she might have felt, I cannot tell you how healing hearing your journey has been. Congratulations and I hope you have a wonderful pregnancy.
Very exciting! Congratulations. This is certainly a great opportunity to explore this important topic and I’d love to see whatever you are comfortable about sharing in your journey
Congratulations!!! I’m pregnant with schizophrenia right now as well and I can tell you it can be hard, but you can do it! I’m so excited for you guys!!!!
I told my psych doctor immediately when I was pregnant and we worked on making my meds safe for the baby. All I can say is that you should work with your obgyn and your psych doctor.
Thank you for sharing your story. I do not have children nor am I pregnant, but I do have Bipolar and pregnancy is a big concern in the back of my mind. I know each person has different experiences, but it’s nice to see someone open about what they are going through. Maybe one day I will be there too. Thank you again.
Oh I so hope you will share more!!! I am a wife with mental illness and would love to see how you are able to navigate this. Its something I have been wondering if I can pursue in the future.
Thank you for sharing. I am diagnosed schizoaffective disorder & want to get pregnant in the future. Medication while pregnant is one of my concerns as well. In my journey I know it is necessary for me to stay healthy & avoid hospitalization. Thanks again for sharing your journey and pregnancy news. Congrats to you & Rob! :)
Thank you for sharing your journey! I love your videos. You are helping to normalize talking about mental health openly. Your videos help people be more understanding and compassionate when talking to people struggling with schizophrenia. You are appreciated.
I am delighted for you both and wish you a peaceful pregnancy. I know of a woman who stayed on her antidepressants while pregnant: the baby was & is fine. Do what is right for you I look forward to hearing more xo
Congratulations guys! I would love to see more. I'm pregnant and have bipolar with psychosis. I have stayed on my meds. I'm so grateful to all the other women who are posting their experiences here. It is so validating and reassuring. It can feel so isolating and lonely being pregnant with a serious mental illness and having to make decisions about meds and breastfeeding so seeing I'm not alone has just been such a blessing to come from your video. Your baby is lucky to have two wonderful parents..my prayers for a beautiful, happy healthy pregnancy 💛
A big congratulations to you both! Yes, more videos on management of schizophrenia in pregnancy. Working in behavioral health we used to given only Haldol in pregnancy....now, using both antidepressants and antipsychotics. Benzos after first trimester. This will be very informative for med. Thank you.
Congratulations! I'm schizophrenic also and going thru ECT now down to once a week. I would love to learn more information about your conditions while being pregnant and how you guys manage life. You two are a strong and tough couple. I totally respect that. I wish you guys all the best and hope to watch more videos from yall! I would love to learn more about the process of being pregnant while being diagnosed with schizophrenia. Much love. 💘
You guys are both a real inspiration to me. I will be praying that you have smooth sailing throughout this journey . Ultimately , God is the giver and sustainer of life. Peace, rest, joy and health to you.
So excited for you!! I so get the reasoning behind not wanting to be on medication with the uncertainty of med implications on pregnancy and the lack of research on safety during pregnancy. BUT it’s so important to remember for baby to be healthy you have to be healthy. You’re making the best decision for your baby which makes you awesome parents ❤️
The biggest mistake my mother makes all the time is thinking that one day she won't need her medication. Bipolar, schizophrenia etc are physical problems no different from any other condition that requires medication. Your medication fixes a problem you will always have, why would you ever want to come off them? Hospitalisation swiftly ensues whenever my mum tries withdrawing which isnt fair on anyone.
As an inpatient psychiatric therapist I would be absolutely honored for you to share your experiences. Anything that allows me to be more mindful and effective with my patients is invaluable ❤️
@@lizsidilau1126 hi ,so happy ,You talked about getting pregnant in the future,I know about a daughter's pain incase of my daughter and even if it'll be somebody's else daughter...being a single mum and also my daughter first time became ill,diagonsed from sczophernia,also I'm broken,because I've lots of dreams incase of my daughter..I've forget all my pain,continue pray for a good,loving husband from God incase of my daughter....so,please all mum's should leave encouraging messages,also should encourage incase of diet and incase of healthy tips,incase of precautions....
How exciting! Congratulations! It sounds like you are addressing your issues thoughtfully, and you have a good doctor who is willing to research on treatment options. Best of luck to you both.
You two are such a beacon of knowledge and hope for people with mental illness. Congratulations to you both on this exciting new chapter! Please continue to share your experiences if you can because your presentation and authenticity contributes to normalizing mental health for general audiences.
Congratulations! All the best wishes for health and happiness in this human journey. Share what you feel comfortable sharing, or feel is important. I trust you to be the judge of that.
Congratulations! Thanks for sharing so openly. It was very helpful. I hope to hear more about your pregnancy journey. Glad you have stabilized. Stay well.
I would love to follow your journey. I have a lot of chronic health conditions and stayed on most of my medications in my pregnancies (including a set of twins) and all 3 of my kids are completely unaffected. Shockingly, both of my twins tested negative for even having one of my meds (that can cause NAS) in their systems.
Yes! I'm interested. I have bipolar 1 with psychotic features and am trying to prepare to get pregnant next fall. Maternal healthcare is so important. Hoping to hear more, thank you.
Congratulations!!!! I myself am weary of carrying a child whilst taking medication for mental illness. Thank you for being open with sharing your journey! Would love to see more
Congratulations!!! I am so happy for you two! You both are very courageous & just wonderful people. Yes, I would like to be part of your journey! It's not easy to go through pregnancy & parenting is very difficult, but I believe in the two of you! You will get through it & will make wonderful parents to your child. I am very excited to be a part of it.
I don't have schizophrenia nor do I have people in my personal life who struggle with it. But I would love to see your journey through pregnancy while dealing with schizophrenia cause it helps me empathize more with people who struggle with mental illnesses. A lot of people can benefit from that.
Please don’t worry! Taking care of your baby starts with taking care of yourself first! I wish you a beautiful pregnancy, you WILL get through the ups and downs. Good luck.
As someone who recently attempted to reduce/go off medications in preparation for conceiving and “failed” for lack of a better word, it would mean so much to me so see someone else navigate this.
Congratulations to you both!!!!Absolutely want to hear all about this journey! There are so many aspects to this journey. It is so rare for people to discuss any of it.
Congratulations!!! This is such beautiful news!! I wish you a healthy plus happy pregnancy and labor. I would love to see the journey too but only if it isn't too taxing on you.
Huge congratulations to your family, you are already glowing! ♡ I have three girls, all while navigating through my own mental health journey. Being a mother is my biggest motivation to make sure I am okay, although remembering my own self care has been challenging and some days are better than others, my children are my biggest blessing. Thanks for sharing your experiences in such an educational and open way. Your bravery helps make me brave too. Congratulations again!
Thank you so much for sharing your story and being vulnerable with us. I felt compelled to comment and let you know that I do not see you as a failure for taking your medication, and I also think you're ON the lowest possible dose (even though you said you had to increase). We are our own biggest critic. Don't be harsh on yourself for things you cannot control. That mom guilt is real! I want to wish the best of luck to you and your family!! and congratulations!!
Congratulations you guys!!! As ever, thank you for sharing your experience. Medication and pregnancy is so rarely spoken about - whether it's for schizophrenia or any other psychiatric condition. I have felt so afraid of getting pregnant precisely because of the fear of being unable to protect my child. I would love to hear you speak about this more. It's a mental health issue, but it's also very much a women's issue! But difficult topics aside, I'm so happy for you both. This baby will be so loved, by its family and by the community you two have been building! xxx
Congratulations!! This definitely is big news! As low dopamine levels can lead to high prolactine levels that prevent pregnancies, I would not have imagined this to be possible! But there is medication you can be on and that is tested. Some medication is tested better than others. If you feel balanced, your child will feel it as well. We all know what stress can do to our bodies, so stay in touch with your doctor. I am very happy for you guys!!!
Thank you so much for sharing so openly. Though I don't have Schizophrenia, I deal with my own mental health issues and work with clients with diverse mental health needs as a social worker and counselor. As I'm preparing to talk with my partner about trying to get pregnant, I have so many fears about parenting/pregnancy with my mental health. I'm so excited to watch you both embark on this journey! And I'm honestly really relieved to hear about your successes and challenges now and ongoing, to remind me that I can do this
After watching your "Becoming a Mother with Schizophrenia" video from 10 months ago and seeing where you are now I believe you will be an amazing mother. Wish you a happy and healthy family!
I am so happy for both of you! What wonderful news. I wish you all the best in your pregnancy, and I am certain you will both be incredible parents. Dealing with medications while pregnant sounds very stressful but I know you are doing what is best for you and your baby. I look forward to seeing how the journey goes. Your insights add so much to the conversation about mental illness.
You and one of my daughters look enough alike you can be sisters, and you have the same diagnosis. She and I enjoy following you. I have learned a lot from you which has helped me with my daughter and has helped me to explain my daughter's condition easier when needed. My daughter said that it is a BIG "YES" to learn more about your pregnancy as you progress, and I agree. How exciting! Congratulations to you both! My daughter says, and I agree, that you have so much courage to carry out your pregnancy while being on some medications. We are happy for you and so glad you are making these videos.
Congratulations! Share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with; anything you guys have to say is helpful and valuable. (And the thumbnail is so cute!!!)
So happy for both of you!! I have schizoaffective disorder, and made it through two pregnancies with reduced medications, with two very healthy outcomes, and also felt great while I was pregnant. It is possible. I hope you and your doctor find the right balance of meds/dosages for a happy and healthy pregnancy for you. My daughters are now 17 and 14, and like another who responded to this video, pregnancy was a game changer for me. Only two relapses to speak of in the past 18 years, other than those just requiring med changes or some time off work. I hope you both have an amazing experience, and you will both be amazing parents!!! Congratulations!
@@Burevestnik9M730 Likely stress coupled with a need for, or at that time changes in, my medications. I do have to say that those were the two worst relapses I’ve ever had, but only two in over 18 years...I’ll take it. Those were separated by two years or so, but I have now not had a relapse in at least eight years. You just have to keep in mind that when you have infants or babies/toddlers that your sleep will not be regular, you will be running on empty a lot, and you NEED to take care of yourself as well. When you have a serious mental illness, self-care is not optional. I suspect Lauren and Rob will shine because they are very supportive of each other. That’s key. Although I am married, I had to handle everything by myself without any emotional support, and that makes a huge difference.
@@kristenfarley-vasquez3478 Since you had no relapse for the last 8 years or so, what was your medication regimen in that period? (types and dosages). I assume this regimen did not change for the last 8 years?
@@Burevestnik9M730 I can’t recall what meds I was on at any given time in the past, only that I have tried dozens of medications over the last 30 years or so, in varying combinations and at different doses. Yes, I’ve required changes in the cocktail over the past eight years of course. Can’t ever get too comfortable with the status quo, but those times were relatively minor blips on the radar screen.
I am so happy for you, two, or rather three! Hormonal changes can be very difficult in any pregnancy in the first few months, but it does settle. You two will make loving and caring parents.
Yes yes yes!!! I would love content surrounding your pregnancy and mental health. I’m wishing you both nothing but light and love throughout this entire process💛
I am so so so proud of you both!!! Thank you for talking about this issue. There is so much judgement and bullying on the internet with pregnant women. Mental health doesn’t have a chance! The thing is- if the medication helps you stay alive and function, that is best for YOUR baby, with the help of your doctor. You are shedding light on a topic that many people face and keep hidden, like there is shame in making the best choice you can for your health and the health of your unborn child. Congratulations!!!!!!
Congratulations 🎉🎊🥰🥳 🎈!!! Please know you are NOT a failure! You’re about to be a MOM - Again! Take a deep breath and slow down. Long enough to enjoy this season. So happy for you both!
Yes I would love to follow along on the pregnancy journey!! I'm at extremely high risk of developing schizophrenia, my whole life I've sworn off having children due to a fear of pregnancy being a "catalyst" to what causes me to go into psychosis. I love your channel, it's so great to see positive representations of people with schizophrenia!
Congratulations to you both! I completely stopped my meds when I got pregnant, and I highly regret it as my pregnancy was incredibly miserable. I think I should have found alternative meds that were known to be safer in pregnancy and trying out lower doses, just as you are doing! I wish you a smooth and healthy pregnancy!
Congratulations! Wonderful news and I’m so happy for you both. I would love you to keep making videos as there is literally nothing online about pregnancy whilst living with schizophrenia.
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Fellow schizophrenic here. I was pregnant while on anti psychotic meds and my daughter is now 25 and in wonderful health with no signs of schizophrenia! Congratulations to you both
What was your medication regimen?
@@Burevestnik9M730 I don’t remember exactly which meds I was on, sorry. It was 25 years ago and I’ve been through so many meds tbh.
@@fatelessdancer36mom Does it mean that you only took medications 25yr ago, for a few years, and never again?
@@Burevestnik9M730 No, she means her daughter doesn’t have schizophrenia which is survivorship bias
@@Happycactus-s1q I asked about her medications not her daughter's
Congraaaaats !! Don't feel the need to over-share about this experience just because you have this platform. Keep as much of it as private as is comfortable for you.
Wishing you the best !
Very well put!
If you feel comfortable, I’d love to see “journal” style videos throughout your pregnancy. What you’re thinking and feeling and experiencing. The videos could help SOO many people, the content you make is really high quality and there also aren’t many people doing it so I think it stands out. Rob is right, the beginning is the biggest hurdle!! You’re passed the huge shift and alllll the changes. I’m so proud of you. Everything is gonna be smooth sailing ❤️❤️❤️ you guys are amazing
I would absolutely like to see more about your journey while pregnant, becuase it's something so many people have to deal with. I don't have a uterus, but it still helps me contextualize the struggles my peers (like you) are dealing with because of their pregnancies.
Also, I started a hormone therapy earlier this year, and it had made my med schedule into a bit of a circus while my body adjusted, but it's back to normal again now that my body has figured itself out. Don't be surprised if you continue to have symptoms from hormone fluctuation during (and even after) your remaining trimesters. Your body will eventually figure itself out, so keep the hope alive.
One more thought: My wife had to start new meds while pregnant. That didn't make her a failure, but I totally understand why it feels that way. Please don't beat yourself up over doing your best to live with a brain and body that aren't medical ideals. Your journey and needs are valid, and I'm so glad you've found some stability. I just hope you don't feel too bad about the details of that stability, because the best thing you can give yourself, Rob, and your children is a (generally) stable parent who loves them. (Lord knows I have to remind myself of that regularly.)
*" I don't have a uterus"* You got me with this. This is the best comment I have seen a husband ever write from a husband. *Bravo you! B R A V O!* Much love to you and your wife (and child?ren). You are a wonderful person with so much compassion and such a wonderful brain to want to learn more about your wife's body.
congratulations!! Please don't be too hard on yourself with taking medication. If you were diabatic, for example, you'd continue taking your insulin- mental health meds shouldn't be different!
Absolutely.
I disagree. She should’ve spoken to her doctor before she ever planned on getting pregnant. That would have been the responsible thing to do.
I agree! Many women with chronic illnesses have kids and do so very responsibly (e.g. talk to their doctors, have frequent gynecologist appointments).
@@Happycactus-s1q that's very subjective as people know themselves and what they can handle and can't.
Congrats! My sister was pregnant and she was on antipsychotics, her doctor ask her to reduce the dose, when she did though, the symptoms came back and was severe.. So she went back to her usual dose, but the danger may occur in breastfeeding, so now she does not breastfeed her girl.. Would like to know how ut goes with you! Wish you all the best
Breastfeeding is essential for immune system. And schizophrenia is an impairment of immune system among other things (brain, nervous, digestive). The best alternative is to find a healthy woman who is breastfeeding her own child and is willing to help.
@@Burevestnik9M730 Actually, this statement is not founded in modern research. The advantage of breastfeeding over formula has been largely over exaggerated and fraught with biased research. If you are interested in the research, I recommend looking at the meta data that Emily Oster has compiled and analyzed in Crib Sheets.
@@Chezlshay In a pool of huge unknowns that characterize human physiology, I will choose a natural way over other options any time of the day. In other words, I would do it as the nature intended.
As a younger lady with psychosis who takes a lot of antipsychotics I would LOVE to see how to handle pregnancy when the time comes for me...thanks
What AP you are taking and what dosages?
@@Burevestnik9M730 I’ve been on so many honestly. Right now they are experimenting with 15mg Haldol
@@sabrinacorbello4428 I assume you tried Abilify, Risperidon, Olanzapine already?
@@Burevestnik9M730 Yes, all with nasty side effects that made me stop
@@sabrinacorbello4428 They usually say Abilify (aripiprazole) is the one with the least amount of side effects e.g. weight gain, sedation, etc. What was your experience with Abilify and what dosages you were taking?
Yes please keep sharing updates on your pregnancy journey! I don't plan on having children, especially biological children but I think that anyone can draw strength, hope and inspiration from watching you be so brave and tackle normal life changes/challenges. No matter what you post I think it's always very well presented and very informative and I think the community can also be a big support to you!
Congratulations. My mum has schizoaffective disorder as well. She was originally diagnosed with just schizophrenia in her early 20's but a few years ago when I was a bit younger was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. She took all of her medications whilst pregnant with me as she needs medication to keep her well. As long as you have good doctors to support you and your little bub, all should be fine. Would be interesting to follow along in the new journey of yours. A new follower to by the way. Again congrats and I hope the rest of your pregnancy goes smoothly.
Always remember that mental health is health. Many people with physical illnesses stay on medications during pregnancy, and mental illness is no different. It does not make you lesser or a failure to have to remain on meds. It is a part of life. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and hoping for the best! You are so inspiring!
It is different, it's not scientifically detectable like physical health ailmemts. The medication is dangerous for the baby.
Congratulations!!!! Thanks for sharing. I immediately forwarded the video to my 20 yrs-old daughter. She was recently diagnosed and becoming a mother in the future is a dream of hers. I wish you three the best. Thank you!!!
Congratulations. You must be thrilled. I went through 2 pregnancies on some psychiatric medications. May babies were just fine. I was worried about causing them mental health issues with the mood disorder. They are great though, have less mental health problems than a lot of their friends, and are compassionate and open-minded about people’s challenges. I wish the same for you.
I love you guys. I’m a medical professional who has many experiences with people affected by this disorder. You help me to be able to understand this and hopefully give better care. Thank you and the BEST WISHES for you both. Another word of advice is you know your body and brain. You need to do what is best for you as healthy happy mom means healthy happy baby!!
You two are going to be fantastic parents. Your baby will have parents that love them and are always thinking about what's best for them, and that is such a beautiful thing. All of your failures, all of the times that you feel you fall short... those things are so, so small compared to the love you obviously already have for your baby.
Congratulations, I'm excited to get to ride along on your journey into parenthood. 💛
I completely agree with this and more that the stats on schizophrenia are that even if your kid does get it the prognosis for recovery and better living with it increases as experience with the disease increases.
@@jacquelineleitch7050 why would the child "get it" if it's not genetically passed down?
@@daisy7066 It is genetically passed down. It is one of several heterogeneous viral diseases like Cancer and Huntington's that is passed down. It doesn't guarentee that you will get it, not is it "viral" or contagious in th sense of infection as many anti-vaxxers on Vancouver Island fallaciously believe, but one's environment and events especially in early childhood make one suseptable to acquiring a variety of mental health issues that can crop up anywhere from childhood till generally age 30ish.
I must add that not everyone who acquires a mental health diagnosis has a heterogeneous catalysis. I don't know the percentage off hand of that statistic. But with the massive prevalence of Cancer and Heart Disease for instance, climate change and pollution and diet have a more than 80% determination and inheritance is only at about a 15 - 20% determination at this time.
How wonderful! You two do what's best for your family, now and when you become parents. Your kiddo will know love. Go from there.
Congratulations!!!! I deal with anxiety depression and schitzophrenia and I had a child and although things aren’t perfect... children are our life and they bring out the best in you! Stay positive you will be an amazing mother !!!!! GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!
Congratulations to you both! I look forward to continuing to hear your story and how you live with Schizophrenia. Thank you for sharing your life with us and taking the stigma out of Schizophrenia, and in turn helping to take the stigma out of mental illness in general.
I send you so many happy wishes. Please if it is not too much share with us this amazing and brave journey.
Oh my! I forgot to say congrats!! I also do suffer from mental illness and went off all meds when I found out. It was a disaster for me. My doc put me back on and helped me. I felt guilty for taking something that could be potentially harmful to my baby. However, I went on to have a beautiful healthy happy baby and I wish the same for you. Hope that helps 😘
Congratulations! I think sharing your personal experience with navigating pregnancy and mental wellness would be extremely valuable to continue to discuss! Seems like it isn’t talked about nearly enough! Thank you for posting such important content!
My Mother has schizophrenia and was in medication when she’s was pregnant with me. I cannot tell you enough how much I value your channel. It has helped me better understand what she went through dealing with this illness. It has helped me in my healing journey. My Mom was incredibly ill and was hospitalized for several months a year but she fought so hard just to be my Mother. I was very fortunate that my father loved and supported her treatment and we had wonderful family that helped when she became ill. I would really like to follow your motherhood journey to continue to learn how she might have felt, I cannot tell you how healing hearing your journey has been. Congratulations and I hope you have a wonderful pregnancy.
Very exciting! Congratulations. This is certainly a great opportunity to explore this important topic and I’d love to see whatever you are comfortable about sharing in your journey
Congratulations!!! I’m pregnant with schizophrenia right now as well and I can tell you it can be hard, but you can do it! I’m so excited for you guys!!!!
I told my psych doctor immediately when I was pregnant and we worked on making my meds safe for the baby. All I can say is that you should work with your obgyn and your psych doctor.
Thank you for sharing your story. I do not have children nor am I pregnant, but I do have Bipolar and pregnancy is a big concern in the back of my mind. I know each person has different experiences, but it’s nice to see someone open about what they are going through. Maybe one day I will be there too. Thank you again.
Oh I so hope you will share more!!! I am a wife with mental illness and would love to see how you are able to navigate this. Its something I have been wondering if I can pursue in the future.
Congrats! I'm interested in following the pregnancy and even further than that parenting as someone with schizophrenia. I wish you luck with this!
Thank you for sharing. I am diagnosed schizoaffective disorder & want to get pregnant in the future. Medication while pregnant is one of my concerns as well. In my journey I know it is necessary for me to stay healthy & avoid hospitalization. Thanks again for sharing your journey and pregnancy news. Congrats to you & Rob! :)
Happy for you. I am inspired by both of your courage and honesty in finding joy and truth amidst challenges
You guys look so happy. What a great guy to be there with you to support you and love you unconditionally. This baby is going to be so loved
I would love to have videos on your mental health experience while pregnant! I feel like it could help other people
Congratulations. Please share your pregnancy journey. I wish you all the best! You will be wonderful parents.
Thank you for sharing your journey! I love your videos. You are helping to normalize talking about mental health openly. Your videos help people be more understanding and compassionate when talking to people struggling with schizophrenia. You are appreciated.
I am delighted for you both and wish you a peaceful pregnancy. I know of a woman who stayed on her antidepressants while pregnant: the baby was & is fine.
Do what is right for you
I look forward to hearing more xo
I'm inspired by the two of you and by all the work you're doing to share the journey you're on. Congratulations! I'm happy for you!
Congratulations guys! I would love to see more. I'm pregnant and have bipolar with psychosis. I have stayed on my meds. I'm so grateful to all the other women who are posting their experiences here. It is so validating and reassuring. It can feel so isolating and lonely being pregnant with a serious mental illness and having to make decisions about meds and breastfeeding so seeing I'm not alone has just been such a blessing to come from your video. Your baby is lucky to have two wonderful parents..my prayers for a beautiful, happy healthy pregnancy 💛
A big congratulations to you both! Yes, more videos on management of schizophrenia in pregnancy. Working in behavioral health we used to given only Haldol in pregnancy....now, using both antidepressants and antipsychotics. Benzos after first trimester. This will be very informative for med. Thank you.
I am so happy for you guys! God bless you on this amazing journey! Sending much love and light your way now and always!
Congratulations! I'm schizophrenic also and going thru ECT now down to once a week. I would love to learn more information about your conditions while being pregnant and how you guys manage life. You two are a strong and tough couple. I totally respect that. I wish you guys all the best and hope to watch more videos from yall! I would love to learn more about the process of being pregnant while being diagnosed with schizophrenia. Much love. 💘
Yes!! Give me all the mental health-pregnancy content. Biggest congrats to you both and your family
This is an amazing news. I am so happy for you guys waiting to see more of this video so excited. Congratulations
You guys are both a real inspiration to me. I will be praying that you have smooth sailing throughout this journey . Ultimately , God is the giver and sustainer of life. Peace, rest, joy and health to you.
Congratulations! So excited for you to be parents!!! Can’t wait to follow your journey.
So excited for you!! I so get the reasoning behind not wanting to be on medication with the uncertainty of med implications on pregnancy and the lack of research on safety during pregnancy. BUT it’s so important to remember for baby to be healthy you have to be healthy. You’re making the best decision for your baby which makes you awesome parents ❤️
The biggest mistake my mother makes all the time is thinking that one day she won't need her medication. Bipolar, schizophrenia etc are physical problems no different from any other condition that requires medication. Your medication fixes a problem you will always have, why would you ever want to come off them? Hospitalisation swiftly ensues whenever my mum tries withdrawing which isnt fair on anyone.
How wonderful !!! Best wishes on your new chapter .... god makes no mistakes .... god bless !!
Congratulations Lauren and Rob! I wish you a peaceful and safe pregnancy. Keep us updated and as always share your experience and learning
Congrats! Thank you for sharing this. Your journey has been so informative and inspiring.
As an inpatient psychiatric therapist I would be absolutely honored for you to share your experiences. Anything that allows me to be more mindful and effective with my patients is invaluable ❤️
I would love to see more content on this as I hope to get pregnant in the future and I live with schizoaffective.
Also, Congrats!! 🎉
I can help you with that. O.o
@@hansoloyolo1839 how please can you tell the details?
@@lizsidilau1126 hi ,so happy ,You talked about getting pregnant in the future,I know about a daughter's pain incase of my daughter and even if it'll be somebody's else daughter...being a single mum and also my daughter first time became ill,diagonsed from sczophernia,also I'm broken,because I've lots of dreams incase of my daughter..I've forget all my pain,continue pray for a good,loving husband from God incase of my daughter....so,please all mum's should leave encouraging messages,also should encourage incase of diet and incase of healthy tips,incase of precautions....
Please folks, at least wait until we have this pandemic under control. FFS
How exciting! Congratulations! It sounds like you are addressing your issues thoughtfully, and you have a good doctor who is willing to research on treatment options. Best of luck to you both.
You two are such a beacon of knowledge and hope for people with mental illness. Congratulations to you both on this exciting new chapter! Please continue to share your experiences if you can because your presentation and authenticity contributes to normalizing mental health for general audiences.
Congratulations! All the best wishes for health and happiness in this human journey. Share what you feel comfortable sharing, or feel is important. I trust you to be the judge of that.
Congratulations! Thanks for sharing so openly. It was very helpful. I hope to hear more about your pregnancy journey. Glad you have stabilized. Stay well.
I would love to follow your journey. I have a lot of chronic health conditions and stayed on most of my medications in my pregnancies (including a set of twins) and all 3 of my kids are completely unaffected. Shockingly, both of my twins tested negative for even having one of my meds (that can cause NAS) in their systems.
Yes! I'm interested. I have bipolar 1 with psychotic features and am trying to prepare to get pregnant next fall. Maternal healthcare is so important. Hoping to hear more, thank you.
I'm bipolar 1 and I have two children. I would say I'm a good mom, my kids are amazing and well adjusted, I homeschool, etc.
Congratulations! I’ve really enjoyed following your channel since it began and I’m excited to hear about this new experience.
I would like to here about journey....! Congrats so special moment for u guys....! Cant wait for positive videos im so happy for u guys....!
Congratulations!!!! I myself am weary of carrying a child whilst taking medication for mental illness. Thank you for being open with sharing your journey! Would love to see more
Congratulations!!! I am so happy for you two! You both are very courageous & just wonderful people. Yes, I would like to be part of your journey! It's not easy to go through pregnancy & parenting is very difficult, but I believe in the two of you! You will get through it & will make wonderful parents to your child. I am very excited to be a part of it.
I don't have schizophrenia nor do I have people in my personal life who struggle with it. But I would love to see your journey through pregnancy while dealing with schizophrenia cause it helps me empathize more with people who struggle with mental illnesses. A lot of people can benefit from that.
CONGRATULATIONS from a fellow Canadian!!!!! Wishing you a smooth pregnancy in which you are well
Please don’t worry! Taking care of your baby starts with taking care of yourself first! I wish you a beautiful pregnancy, you WILL get through the ups and downs. Good luck.
As someone who recently attempted to reduce/go off medications in preparation for conceiving and “failed” for lack of a better word, it would mean so much to me so see someone else navigate this.
Wonderful - if you are both comfortable with sharing more about your journey with the pregnancy, it would be very helpful to hear about it.
Wonderful news! So delighted for you both.
Congratulations to you both!!!!Absolutely want to hear all about this journey! There are so many aspects to this journey. It is so rare for people to discuss any of it.
Congratulations!!! This is such beautiful news!! I wish you a healthy plus happy pregnancy and labor. I would love to see the journey too but only if it isn't too taxing on you.
Huge congratulations to your family, you are already glowing! ♡ I have three girls, all while navigating through my own mental health journey. Being a mother is my biggest motivation to make sure I am okay, although remembering my own self care has been challenging and some days are better than others, my children are my biggest blessing. Thanks for sharing your experiences in such an educational and open way. Your bravery helps make me brave too. Congratulations again!
Thank you so much for sharing your story and being vulnerable with us. I felt compelled to comment and let you know that I do not see you as a failure for taking your medication, and I also think you're ON the lowest possible dose (even though you said you had to increase). We are our own biggest critic. Don't be harsh on yourself for things you cannot control. That mom guilt is real! I want to wish the best of luck to you and your family!! and congratulations!!
Congrats!!!! Thanks for sharing your experience. Sending so many well wished to you all
Congrats......having children makes us whole and complete, needing less of the world because we have our children.
CONGRATULATIONS!!!~ 🎊🎉🎊🎉🥳🙏🏼💖💕 May you have a happy, healthy and blessed pregnancy!!
Congratulations you guys!!! As ever, thank you for sharing your experience. Medication and pregnancy is so rarely spoken about - whether it's for schizophrenia or any other psychiatric condition. I have felt so afraid of getting pregnant precisely because of the fear of being unable to protect my child. I would love to hear you speak about this more. It's a mental health issue, but it's also very much a women's issue! But difficult topics aside, I'm so happy for you both. This baby will be so loved, by its family and by the community you two have been building! xxx
Congradulations!!!
Thank you for sharing with us such good news.
Congratulations!! This definitely is big news! As low dopamine levels can lead to high prolactine levels that prevent pregnancies, I would not have imagined this to be possible! But there is medication you can be on and that is tested. Some medication is tested better than others. If you feel balanced, your child will feel it as well. We all know what stress can do to our bodies, so stay in touch with your doctor. I am very happy for you guys!!!
Thank you so much for sharing so openly. Though I don't have Schizophrenia, I deal with my own mental health issues and work with clients with diverse mental health needs as a social worker and counselor. As I'm preparing to talk with my partner about trying to get pregnant, I have so many fears about parenting/pregnancy with my mental health. I'm so excited to watch you both embark on this journey! And I'm honestly really relieved to hear about your successes and challenges now and ongoing, to remind me that I can do this
Late to the party, but congratulations Rob & Lauren! Thanks for sharing this exciting news with us, so happy to hear that your family is growing!
Congratulations! Please try not to worry. Try to assume that everything is going to be fine because it may very well be fine.
After watching your "Becoming a Mother with Schizophrenia" video from 10 months ago and seeing where you are now I believe you will be an amazing mother. Wish you a happy and healthy family!
I am so happy for both of you! What wonderful news. I wish you all the best in your pregnancy, and I am certain you will both be incredible parents. Dealing with medications while pregnant sounds very stressful but I know you are doing what is best for you and your baby. I look forward to seeing how the journey goes. Your insights add so much to the conversation about mental illness.
Congratulations!! I gasped when I opened RUclips and saw this :) I'm so happy for the two of you!
stay strong rob she will need as much support and understanding from you.
Agreed and he is the perfect guy for het because he will 100% do that. May we all have a partner like Rob.
You and one of my daughters look enough alike you can be sisters, and you have the same diagnosis. She and I enjoy following you. I have learned a lot from you which has helped me with my daughter and has helped me to explain my daughter's condition easier when needed. My daughter said that it is a BIG "YES" to learn more about your pregnancy as you progress, and I agree. How exciting! Congratulations to you both! My daughter says, and I agree, that you have so much courage to carry out your pregnancy while being on some medications. We are happy for you and so glad you are making these videos.
Congratulations! Share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with; anything you guys have to say is helpful and valuable. (And the thumbnail is so cute!!!)
Congratulations!!! You two will be great parents! Thanks so much for sharing your journey with us!
So happy for both of you!! I have schizoaffective disorder, and made it through two pregnancies with reduced medications, with two very healthy outcomes, and also felt great while I was pregnant. It is possible. I hope you and your doctor find the right balance of meds/dosages for a happy and healthy pregnancy for you. My daughters are now 17 and 14, and like another who responded to this video, pregnancy was a game changer for me. Only two relapses to speak of in the past 18 years, other than those just requiring med changes or some time off work. I hope you both have an amazing experience, and you will both be amazing parents!!! Congratulations!
What was the cause of those two relapses?
@@Burevestnik9M730 Likely stress coupled with a need for, or at that time changes in, my medications. I do have to say that those were the two worst relapses I’ve ever had, but only two in over 18 years...I’ll take it. Those were separated by two years or so, but I have now not had a relapse in at least eight years. You just have to keep in mind that when you have infants or babies/toddlers that your sleep will not be regular, you will be running on empty a lot, and you NEED to take care of yourself as well. When you have a serious mental illness, self-care is not optional. I suspect Lauren and Rob will shine because they are very supportive of each other. That’s key. Although I am married, I had to handle everything by myself without any emotional support, and that makes a huge difference.
@@kristenfarley-vasquez3478 Since you had no relapse for the last 8 years or so, what was your medication regimen in that period? (types and dosages). I assume this regimen did not change for the last 8 years?
@@Burevestnik9M730 I can’t recall what meds I was on at any given time in the past, only that I have tried dozens of medications over the last 30 years or so, in varying combinations and at different doses. Yes, I’ve required changes in the cocktail over the past eight years of course. Can’t ever get too comfortable with the status quo, but those times were relatively minor blips on the radar screen.
@@kristenfarley-vasquez3478 Are you saying that you are currently not on any anti-psychotic?
Congrats to you both! I am very interested in this aspect of your life and would love if you guys continued to share!
I would love to see as much as you are comfortable sharing!! Congratulations, I'm so happy for you guys.
congratulations im so happy for you all. thank you for including us, id love to see more updates and see how you all navigate everything !
Many Congratulations!!! I would love to hear about your pregnancy journey on this channel. Much love and support to you guys ❤️
I am so happy for you, two, or rather three! Hormonal changes can be very difficult in any pregnancy in the first few months, but it does settle. You two will make loving and caring parents.
Yes yes yes!!! I would love content surrounding your pregnancy and mental health. I’m wishing you both nothing but light and love throughout this entire process💛
I am so so so proud of you both!!! Thank you for talking about this issue. There is so much judgement and bullying on the internet with pregnant women. Mental health doesn’t have a chance! The thing is- if the medication helps you stay alive and function, that is best for YOUR baby, with the help of your doctor. You are shedding light on a topic that many people face and keep hidden, like there is shame in making the best choice you can for your health and the health of your unborn child. Congratulations!!!!!!
Congratulations 🎉🎊🥰🥳 🎈!!! Please know you are NOT a failure! You’re about to be a MOM - Again! Take a deep breath and slow down. Long enough to enjoy this season. So happy for you both!
Yes I would love to follow along on the pregnancy journey!! I'm at extremely high risk of developing schizophrenia, my whole life I've sworn off having children due to a fear of pregnancy being a "catalyst" to what causes me to go into psychosis. I love your channel, it's so great to see positive representations of people with schizophrenia!
Congrats! Such good news :) long time viewer, you're doing such good work!
Congratulations to you both! I completely stopped my meds when I got pregnant, and I highly regret it as my pregnancy was incredibly miserable. I think I should have found alternative meds that were known to be safer in pregnancy and trying out lower doses, just as you are doing! I wish you a smooth and healthy pregnancy!
Congratulations! Wonderful news and I’m so happy for you both. I would love you to keep making videos as there is literally nothing online about pregnancy whilst living with schizophrenia.
Absolutely! Your experiences with pregnancy are so important, please do create content around these life changes