Inside Schizophrenia

When facing a difficult health journey with schizophrenia, you may feel vulnerable and isolated. It can be challenging to focus on managing a severe mental illness if you don't have a solid support system around you. A support team can be a group of people who provide resources, help you accomplish tasks, or simply offer you compassion. Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard break down who should be on your support team, how you build one and unconventional team members you may be missing out on. Dr Jerry McKee, a board certified psychiatric pharmacy specialist, joins as the guest. His work focuses on expanding the capacity of community pharmacies to support individuals with serious mental illness, substance abuse disorders, and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Dr. Jerry McKee is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Pharmacy (BCPP) specialist with more than 42 years of leadership experience across public mental health, inpatient psychiatry, residential IDD services, academia, and behavioral-health…

Schizophrenia has long been intertwined with the anti-psychiatry movement. The anti-psychiatry movement is based on the belief that psychiatric treatments often cause more harm than good. It challenges the legitimacy of mental illness diagnoses, medical interventions, and institutional authority. But the anti-psychiatry movement has also helped to significantly transform modern mental health care, patient rights, and legal, ethical, and clinical reforms. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard break down the core parts of the ever evolving anti-psychiatry movement and how to navigate it as someone with schizophrenia and their loved ones. Guest Psychiatrist Dr. Daniel Morehead joins. He is an advocate for mental health and the author of Science Over Stigma: Education and Advocacy for Mental Health, published by the American Psychiatric Association. Our guest, Dr. Daniel Morehead, is a psychiatrist and director of training for the general psychiatry residency at Tufts…

There are many myths that surround people with a schizophrenia diagnosis. Some examples of these myths are that people with schizophrenia have multiple personalities, that those with schizophrenia are dangerous and need to be hospitalized permanently, or that schizophrenia is caused by childhood abuse. None of these are true. Schizophrenia spectrum disorder is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions. Dispelling these myths is crucial for reducing stigma. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard break down the common myths surrounding schizophrenia and how to respond when you hear them, in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. Guest Kit Wallis, who goes by SchizoKitzo, joins later in the show. She is a content creator who advocates for schizoaffective and bipolar disorders. Kit was diagnosed with the bipolar type of schizoaffective disorder in late 2020, but has been managing symptoms since she was in middle school. The mission of SchizoKitzo is to raise…

The intersection of schizophrenia and an acute mental health crisis typically involves a profound, overwhelming disruption of cognitive processing, emotional stability, and grasp on reality. During these periods, symptoms of the disorder such as hallucinations or delusions frequently intensify, leaving someone unable to distinguish internal psychiatric distress from the external reality. This internal chaos is often compounded by severe agitation, a sudden withdrawal from social support systems, or a complete breakdown in the ability to communicate, which can rapidly escalate into a dangerous medical and social emergency. Helping a family member experiencing a mental health crisis is an incredibly stressful and frightening situation. Safety, both yours and theirs, is the immediate priority. In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss how to navigate an active schizophrenia mental health crisis while prioritizing safety for everyone involved. Guest…

Sometimes, you are so consumed by caring for a loved one with a serious mental illness, like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, that taking a moment for yourself feels like a betrayal. In this episode, host Gabe Howard and Dr. C. Alec Pollard reveal the hidden crisis of caregiver burnout in the world of serious mental illness. They dismantle the myth that self-care is selfish, showing how neglecting your own needs can worsen stress and strain the very relationships you cherish. Dr. Pollard dives into the toxic beliefs that trap caregivers—those who support individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other severe conditions—into a cycle of resentment and exhaustion. With breakthrough strategies and compassionate advice, this episode offers a wake-up call for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the relentless demands of caregiving. Learn how nurturing yourself not only protects your well-being but also empowers you to care more effectively for your loved one. “If you can do no good, at least do no harm. A…

Treating schizophrenia in America is often described as a broken system, not because of a lack of medical knowledge, but due to structural and policy failures. The failures of these systems has created a cycle where individuals often move between homelessness, emergency rooms, and the criminal justice system rather than receiving ongoing care. Many families and caregivers struggle to get help even when the situation turns dangerous. In this episode, hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard discuss how the government and health care system failures lead to these tragedies and what needs to change. They unpack cases like the one involving Rob Reiner, where his son, who has schizophrenia, is suspected of murdering both his parents during a severe mental health crisis. Guest Gail Freedman joins later in the episode. She is the director, writer, and producer of a new documentary, “No One Cares About Crazy People.” It's inspired by Ron Powers acclaimed book of the same name and it's an intimate, immersive dive…

Whether you've been diagnosed with schizophrenia or you're supporting someone living with the condition, connecting with others who understand schizophrenia can be a great help. Talking to those who are dealing with the same things you’re experiencing can not only help you feel less alone, but also help you learn tips and coping mechanisms from each other, share resources, encourage treatment, and allow you to tell your stories in a safe and accepting environment. But how do you find other people with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia to connect with? What should you say? Where do you even go? Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard break down how to find other people with schizophrenia and give you a simple opening you can use to build new connections. Finally, guest Amber (who lives with mental illness) joins. Amber's mental health advocacy journey began when she found out she had schizoaffective disorder and decided to share it on social media. She decided…

“Paranoid schizophrenic admits to attacking dog walker.” When we watch a horror movie, we know the “madman” on screen is a work of fiction. But when the nightly news leads with a diagnosis to explain a tragedy, the fear it creates is very real — and often permanent.Why does the media lead with schizophrenia only when the story involves violence, yet remain silent when it comes to stories of recovery, hope, and humanity? In this hard-hitting episode, host Rachel Star Withers (who lives with schizophrenia) explores the Lead with Fear phenomenon — the dangerous journalistic trend of linking a diagnosis to a crime before the facts are even in — and why schizophrenia seems to have the worst PR team in the world. Later in the show, we sit down with two media heavyweights who are using their platforms to overhaul how the world views mental health.: Janet Yang, an Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning producer and former President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Frank Kosa, an Emmy-nominated…

“How do I talk to my loved one?” It is the most frequent question the show receives. In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers (who lives with schizophrenia) and co-host Gabe Howard dive deep into the nuances of communication, moving away from reactionary "crisis mode" toward intentional, empathetic connection. They explore why validating emotions and feelings — rather than schizophrenia symptoms — is the key to building trust and how to ask for permission before broaching difficult topics. Later in the show, Gail Simmons, culinary expert and judge on Bravo's Top Chef, joins the conversation to share her personal story. Gail opens up about her brother’s schizophrenia diagnosis and how her family used the universal language of food and the dinner table to maintain their bond during challenging years. Listeners will learn: how to acknowledge someone's fear without confirming their delusions why caregivers must prioritize their own mental health and boundaries to be effective supports lessons from Gail Simmons…

How does a woman with schizophrenia manage life as an entertainer, stuntwoman, and “Inside Schizophrenia” podcast host, all while managing a severe mental illness? In this bonus episode (that originally aired for the “Inside Mental Health” podcast series), Rachel Star Withers shares her intense and often shocking journey — from growing up believing her hallucinations were demons to undergoing an exorcism before finally receiving an accurate medical diagnosis. She candidly discusses the stigma she faced and how she overcame it to become a thought leader in schizophrenia advocacy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in psychology, mental health advocacy, or learning more about Rachel’s “badass life” as a stunt performer in blockbuster movies like Marvel’s “Black Panther.” Rachel’s story is a testament to resilience, and she opens up about what it truly means to live with schizophrenia while pursuing your passions and defying expectations. Hit play to learn more about this inspiring story of…

Living with schizophrenia is traumatic — full stop. Hallucinations, delusions, hospitalizations, lost relationships, and stigma can fracture how you see yourself and the world. But how do you process all of that without being labeled dangerous, unstable, or misunderstood? In this episode of “Inside Schizophrenia,” Rachel Star Withers (who lives with schizophrenia) and cohost Gabe Howard explore practical, safe ways to express your schizophrenia journey — without needing to be an artist, writer, or performer. From journaling (even if you hate it) to movement, storytelling, and simple word exercises, they break down how expression can support emotional regulation, restore personal agency, and help organize traumatic experiences. Listeners will learn: why you don’t need artistic talent to benefit from expressive outlets how storytelling helps organize traumatic memories into something manageable what caregivers and loved ones should know about encouraging safe expression Later, Rachel is joined by singer,…

For decades, the narrative surrounding schizophrenia has focused almost exclusively on controlling symptoms. But with no cure, can someone actually get better? Recovery in the context of schizophrenia isn’t about the absence of symptoms. It’s a deeply personal process — one that centers on restoring hope, self-determination, and a meaningful life, even when hallucinations, delusions, and setbacks continue to exist. In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers, who lives openly with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard explore what recovery really means for people with serious mental illness. From clinical symptom remission and functional abilities to redefining purpose and identity, they unpack how recovery can look — and why it rarely fits the “back to normal” expectation held by loved ones and society. Later in the episode, Dr. Mark Ragins, who is a pioneer and leading voice in person-centered, recovery-based psychiatry, joins the conversation. Listener takeaways why people — not illness — should be at the…

Many people manage symptoms of serious mental illness but hesitate to seek help. Fear, embarrassment, and uncertainty about what actually happens during a psychological assessment can keep someone from taking that crucial first step. In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers (who lives with schizophrenia) undergoes an initial psych evaluation with psychologist Dr. Aaron Brinen to show you exactly what the process looks like for someone experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia. Their conversation demystifies the assessment, removes fear from the unknown, and helps you understand what professionals are really looking for. Dr. Aaron P. Brinen, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in private practice who uses evidence-based treatments to support people living with serious mental health conditions. He is the co-developer of Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy (CT-R) and trains clinicians worldwide. Dr. Brinen is also the author of the new book Living Well With Psychosis. Our guest, Dr. Aaron P. Brinen, PsyD, is a…

The integration of artificial intelligence, AI, in mental healthcare holds promise for enhancing treatments, diagnosing, personalizing care, and more. An emerging new use of AI is in therapy, but is it ready for schizophrenia? In today’s episode, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard are going to explore the benefits and dangers of AI therapy in schizophrenia care. Our guest is Dr. Nick Haber. Dr. Haber is a researcher and assistant professor at the Stanford Graduate School of Education. His research group develops artificial intelligence systems meant to mimic and model the ways that people learn in early life, exploring their environments through play, social interaction, and curiosity. He is the senior author of a new study about exploring the dangers of AI in mental healthcare. Our guest, Nick Haber, is an Assistant Professor at the Stanford Graduate School of Education, and by courtesy, Computer Science. After receiving his PhD in mathematics on Partial…

What if you were certain you were perfectly healthy — but everyone around you insisted you had schizophrenia? This may not be denial; it could be anosognosia — a neurological symptom that prevents people from recognizing they have a mental illness. In this special bonus episode, host Rachel Star Withers, who lives with schizophrenia, sits down with Dr. Xavier Amador, world-renowned psychologist and founder of the LEAP Institute, to unravel one of the most misunderstood symptoms in psychiatry. Dr. Amador, author of the bestselling book “I Am Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help!,” shares the science behind anosognosia, why logic and education often fail, and how empathy and connection can bridge the gap between awareness and treatment. Drawing from his own family’s experience, Dr. Amador introduces the LEAP method (Listen, Empathize, Agree, Partner) — a revolutionary communication strategy proven to help loved ones accept treatment, even when they don’t believe they’re ill. Listen and learn: the brain science behind…

Childhood schizophrenia is one of the rarest — and most controversial — diagnoses in psychiatry. In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers (who lives with schizophrenia) and co-host Gabe Howard, joined by board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington, explore the complexities of diagnosing schizophrenia in children and teens. Together, they unpack the challenges of distinguishing symptoms from typical childhood imagination, the life-altering implications of early treatment, and the risks of misdiagnosis with conditions like autism, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. Rachel also shares her own childhood experiences with hallucinations, offering a rare personal perspective on what it’s like to grow up with symptoms that may go unnoticed for years. Takeaways for listeners: why diagnosing schizophrenia in children is so complicated — and controversial how to tell the difference between usual childhood behavior and red flags the risks of misdiagnosis and overmedication what parents and clinicians should consider…

The experiences of living with schizophrenia can be traumatic: hospitalizations, treatments, psychotic episodes. Even though the prevalence of comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in people with psychosis varies from 11% to 52%, treatment for traumatic experiences is rarely prescribed to people with schizophrenia. In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss managing the trauma of living with schizophrenia and why it’s important. Our hosts welcome guest expert Dr. Hector Rodriguez, who is trained in psychiatry, trauma-informed care, and neuroimaging. He blends neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and lifestyle interventions to help people strengthen their minds and reclaim their power. Our guest, Dr. Hector Rodriguez, is trained in psychiatry, trauma-informed care, and neuroimaging. He blends neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and lifestyle interventions to help people strengthen their minds and reclaim their power. As the founder of The…

For individuals living with schizophrenia, the world can be populated by voices, visions, or other sensory experiences that are intensely real yet imperceptible to others. These hallucinations, which are a defining feature of schizophrenia, are not mere figments of imagination but rather vivid, often distressing, and deeply influential aspects of their daily reality. Today’s exploration aims to shed light on the phenomenon of hallucinations in schizophrenia, going beyond a diagnostic perspective to consider the actual experience, and the profound impact on an individual's sense of self and connection to the world around them. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and guest Christopher Grant have a real, raw discussion about what experiencing schizophrenia hallucinations is like. “By the time I was in university, I started hearing whispering in the vents of my apartment. Then it suddenly became more focused. Like Command, go take a walk right now or this will happen to you. It continued on and…

Schizophrenia may develop in people of all ages, and the early signs of the disorder vary greatly from person to person. While the symptoms are the same, the presentation of them can change due to age of onset, gender, and severity. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore how the early signs of schizophrenia can present differently and specific behaviors to watch for. Joining them is Dr. Gus Alva, a distinguished fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Geriatrics. As an author and coauthor, Dr. Alva's work has been published in peer-reviewed medical journals, including the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and the Journal of the American Psychiatric Association. He has been featured on numerous media outlets and has served as an expert guest in various television programs, such as CNN News. About Our Guest & Hosts Our guest, Dr. Gus Alva, is a…

“Schizophrenia” is a scary word. A scary word that 1% of the population manages. Movies and TV shows have long created stigma around those with schizophrenia. But how do you stop fear? With knowledge. On a special bonus episode of the Inside Schizophrenia podcast, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, sits down with Dr. Derin Cobia to break down the symptoms of schizophrenia, current treatments, and what is on the horizon of schizophrenia research. Our guest, Dr. Derin Cobia, is a neuropsychologist and neuroscientist with particular interest in utilizing neuroimaging techniques to study how changes in brain structure influence cognition and behavior. He is also a professor at Brigham Young University. Dr. Cobia's laboratory is focused on the implementation of computational anatomy tools to study neuropsychiatric diseases, particularly schizophrenia. His interests are in the clinical and biological heterogeneity that exists in schizophrenia by taking a cognitive neuroscience perspective. His…

Psychosis is a state of impaired reality which may include hallucinations and delusions. Experiencing psychosis can impair your functioning and have a negative effect on various aspects of your daily life, such as work, school, and the ability to maintain relationships. Being in a state of psychosis can be extremely frightening and confusing. Many times, it can be difficult for loved ones, caregivers, and even medical professionals to understand what it's like to experience psychosis. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss what psychosis is like and how you can help someone who is experiencing psychosis in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. Clinical psychologist Dr. Aaron Brinen joins as the guest. Dr. Brinen is the co-developer of recovery-oriented cognitive therapy (CT-R), and has been active in adapting CT-R for different settings and training therapists from around the world. He also has a new book out, “Living Well with Psychosis.” Our guest, Dr. Aaron P.…

The story of schizophrenia has too often been told through a lens of fear and misunderstanding. But that’s changing. Thanks to relentless advocates, awareness campaigns, and policy reform, stigma is being challenged and access to care is improving. But how do we join this fight? What does real advocacy look like — and where do we even begin? In this episode, host Rachel Star Withers, who lives with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard share their own advocacy journeys and break down the many ways you can make a difference. Joining them is Dr. Tracy Hicks, a doctor of nursing practice and dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. With years of hands-on experience pushing for mental health reform, Dr. Hicks offers insight into what effective advocacy really takes — from the clinic to the capitol. Guest Information: Dr. Tracy Hicks, MBA, APRN, FNP- BC, PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP, FIAAN, FAANP Doctor of Nursing Practice, Dual Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner,…

Up to 70% of people with schizophrenia don’t take their medication as prescribed. This nonadherence is tied to higher risks of psychosis, relapse, ongoing symptoms, and even suicide attempts. So why do so many people with schizophrenia struggle to stay on their meds — despite such serious consequences? And what can actually be done about it? In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers — who lives with schizophrenia — and co-host Gabe Howard explore the complicated reality behind medication adherence. Rachel shares her own experiences with skipping or stopping meds, shedding light on the emotional and psychological challenges that aren’t often discussed. They’re joined by Dr. Alberto Augsten, a toxicologist and psychopharmacologist who consults with pharmaceutical companies and helps shape best-practice guidelines for psychiatric medications. Dr. Augsten brings expert insight into how treatment can be improved and what steps can be taken to support long-term recovery. Listen now to learn…

Many adults with schizophrenia rely on family members for daily support, often depending on parents in their 50s or 60s. As these parents grow older, they face mounting physical and emotional challenges — along with the pressing question of who will care for their child in the future. In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers, who lives with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard dive into the unique struggles of aging parents caring for an adult child with schizophrenia. Joining the conversation is Maye Jepson, a mother and caregiver to an adult son with schizophrenia. As a passionate advocate and a master's-level counselor, Maye offers invaluable insights on navigating the caregiving journey and preparing for the future. Maye Jepson lives in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and, along with her husband Phil, is the caregiver/TRUST PARTNER and parent of Jason Jepson who has a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder. Remembering the uncertain days when her family first learned of her…

Schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental illness, and misinformation and stigma surrounding the condition are still prevalent in our societies. The stereotypes and the myths of schizophrenia create challenges for people with diagnosed schizophrenia, but also for healthcare workers, family members, and caretakers. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard break down the top myths surrounding schizophrenia. Remember, just because society believes that it’s true doesn’t mean it is. Guest Psychiatrist Dr. Richard W. Miller joins to discuss the myths he is confronted with daily working in the mental health field. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our Guest, Dr. Richard (Rick) W. Miller, is a psychiatrist in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including South County Hospital and Landmark Medical Center. He received his medical degree from Rutgers New Jersey Medical…

Everyone has felt overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or strong smells — but for people with schizophrenia, sensory overload can be constant and intense. Sensory processing dysfunction can make everyday sights, sounds, and touches feel overwhelming, leading to a phenomenon called “sensory flooding.” It can also make it harder to filter out background noise, identify sensory sources, and focus on tasks — sometimes even contributing to symptoms of psychosis like hallucinations and delusions. Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore how schizophrenia affects the senses and what this means for daily life. They’re joined by Dr. Ray Kotwicki, a psychiatrist and Chief Medical Officer at Hightop Health, who shares expert insights into the science behind sensory processing challenges and how to manage them. Tune in for a fascinating look at the intersection of schizophrenia, sensory overload, and mental health! To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our…

The average age of onset for schizophrenia is in early adulthood, late teens to early 30s. This is an intense stage of life for anyone — graduating high school, first time living on your own, entering the workforce, attending college, and figuring out what you want to do with your life and who you want to be. Now add experiencing psychosis for the first time, hallucinations, delusions and losing touch with reality. In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore the challenges of managing early adulthood with a schizophrenia diagnosis. Why does schizophrenia emerge so often in this time frame, what experiences contribute to schizophrenia symptoms, and what are the challenges for young adults with schizophrenia? Joining us later in the episode is Jules, a 22-year-old artist and college student studying marine biology at Columbia University who lives with schizophrenia. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our guest,…

Approximately one-fifth of the U.S. population lives in a rural area, and about one-fifth of those living in rural areas, or about 6.5 million individuals, have a mental illness. People living in rural areas have a more difficult time getting proper diagnoses and treatment for serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia. This is due to multiple factors, including a lack of healthcare providers, costs, and social stigmas surrounding schizophrenia in these areas. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss the challenges and solutions about access to schizophrenia treatment in rural areas in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. Guest Tarrah Holliday, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience working with people in rural America who live with schizophrenia and helping rural populations get access to care, joins to share her expertise. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our guest, Tarrah…

Cognitive deficits are a core feature of schizophrenia and account for much of the impaired functioning associated with this disorder. What are the cognitive deficits associated with schizophrenia? When do they start? Do they ever stop? And does cognitive decline continue throughout our lives? And most importantly, how do we treat these cognitive deficits? In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers and co-host Gabe Howard discuss how the cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia impact people’s lives. Rachel opens up about her ongoing struggles and fears over her cognitive decline. Guest Dr. Derin Cobia, a clinical neuropsychologist and associate professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University, joins to share the research his lab is doing on how changes in brain structure influence cognition and behavior in schizophrenia. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced…

Hope is a crucial element that can significantly influence recovery for people with schizophrenia. It offers a pathway to resilience, empowerment, and a fulfilling life. However, schizophrenia is a disabling psychiatric condition that impacts 1% of people worldwide and ranks among the top ten global causes of disability. It can be difficult to remain hopeful with statistics like that. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore how to find hope with a schizophrenia diagnosis in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. Our guest, Christopher Grant, a Mi'gmaw filmmaker and artist who lives with schizophrenia, joins. His work has been exhibited in galleries, museums, and film festivals internationally. He is also known on TikTok as XO Rad Magical, where he has over 1.5 million followers. There, he has created schizophrenia simulators of what he experiences. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. This episode is sponsored, in part,…

A common symptom of schizophrenia is anosognosia. Anosognosia is when a person is unaware that they have mental health condition or cannot perceive their condition accurately. It is believed that between 50% to 98% of people with schizophrenia have some form of anosognosia. Is anosognosia that common? Could it be confused with denial? And how can caregivers, family, and loved ones of people with schizophrenia help them gain awareness into the disorder? Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss the symptom of anosognosia and the popular way of treating it, the LEAP method, in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. Dr. Xavier Amador, creator of the LEAP method, world renowned clinical psychologist, and forensic expert joins in a conversation with Rachel on how caregivers and loved ones can use the LEAP method to help those in their lives struggling with schizophrenia symptoms. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. This…

Since the 1950s, the go-to treatment for schizophrenia has been oral antipsychotics. However, the landscape of schizophrenia treatment is changing and evolving, from advancements in antipsychotic long-acting injections to promising new treatments targeting muscarinic receptors to different types of neuromodulation stimuli of the brain, and even new theories connecting schizophrenia to other diseases like chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore the innovations in schizophrenia treatment in this episode of “Inside Schizophrenia.” Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Desiree Matthews, who is at the forefront of helping people with treatment-resistant depression and schizophrenia, joins as a guest to discuss some of the current and upcoming treatments. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our guest, Desiree Matthews, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified psychiatric nurse…

“Schizoposting” is a growing internet trend that involves posting violent images, videos, text posts, and memes as if the creator is having a mental breakdown. It has become associated with hate movements, and people are using schizoposting as a medium to desensitize and encourage others to violent impulses and unpredictable behavior. In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers, who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard explore the online world of schizoposting and how this affects people diagnosed with schizophrenia. Guest Dr. Jim Johansson, who has been studying schizoposting and its growth on alt-right internet platforms, joins for a discussion. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode page. Our guest, Dr. Jim Johansson, is a nursing clinical instructor (mental health) and a registered nurse based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. His program of research focuses on the intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system. He…

How do you refer to a person who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia? “Person with schizophrenia” or “schizophrenic?” What about other words, for example, “crazy, insane, psycho, or schizo?” The words we use carry meaning and stigma but also information and identity. Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore person-first language versus condition-first language when discussing people with schizophrenia. NAMI’s (National Alliance on Mental Illness) chief medical officer, Dr. Ken Duckworth, joins to introduce a schizophrenia and psychosis lexicon guide to assist in conversations about schizophrenia. Our guest, Ken Duckworth’s, journey into psychiatry started when he was a boy growing up with a dad who experienced severe bipolar disorder. His father was loving, kind, and periodically quite ill, hospitalized for months at a time. Ken became a psychiatrist, in part, to help his father. He serves as the chief medical officer for NAMI and feels fortunate to be a part of this community. Ken recently…

People with schizophrenia are at a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes than the general population. Diabetes is seen in 1 in 5 people with schizophrenia. Metabolic syndrome occurs in 1 in 3 people with schizophrenia. What is causing these physical illnesses in people with schizophrenia? Is this just due to our lifestyle factors? How significant a role does medication for schizophrenia play in developing these illnesses? And how can we manage to stay physically healthy with schizophrenia? Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard share their struggles with weight issues and connections to mental disorders. Guest Fran Hinson, a registered nurse, personal trainer, and behavior modification specialist, joins us. She works with special populations to help create small, sustainable habits inside and outside the gym. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Fran Hinson is passionate about helping people step into their new lives. She has worked in the health and…

Treatment for schizophrenia is a tough journey for people with the illness but also for caregivers and loved ones. Due to cognitive symptoms, hallucinations, and delusions, a person with schizophrenia may not be able to make decisions on treatment or take care of themselves. When should caregivers step in to legally take control over a person with schizophrenia? What are the types of involuntary treatment? What are the other options available to people with schizophrenia and caregivers? Host Rachel Star Withers, a person with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss involuntary treatment options in schizophrenia and the moral issues around forcing treatment on a person. Guest Nicole Drapeau Gillen joins the discussion. Nicole was an IT executive and chief marketing officer turned caregiver and the author of “Schizophrenia & Related Disorders: A Handbook for Caregivers.” Nicole recognized that caregivers like herself often find themselves thrust into this challenging, complex, and stressful situation…

People with schizophrenia have a 10% rate of suicide compared with the general population population’s 1.3% rate of suicide. Suicide is the biggest reason for the decreased life expectancy of people with schizophrenia. Around 40–79% of people with schizophrenia have reported having suicidal thoughts. Why is the rate of suicide higher among people with schizophrenia? Are there specific risk factors that have been identified for our population? And most important, how can we prevent suicide and keep going? Host Rachel Star Withers, who has schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss suicide in relation to schizophrenia in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. Rachel shares her chronic struggles with the desire to end her life and how she has learned to keep going. Guest Tim “The Sack Man” from SackLifeOfficial joins to share his journey of finding an interesting way to cope with his depression and suicidal ideation through punching bag training. He now travels the country in a VW bus, providing free…

There is a huge gap in how people with schizophrenia are expected to recover and then integrate back into society. Many of us are in active treatment and managing symptoms. Now what? How do we function in life? How do we fit into society? We all want friends, to have a purpose, to belong. These desires fall under community involvement. Integration into the community is recognized as an important component of recovery for those with severe mental illness. It is also one of our biggest challenges. Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore different programs all over the world that work to assist people with schizophrenia to integrate into their local communities. Faydra Aldridge, CEO of the British Columbia Schizophrenia Society and host of their podcast, “Look Again: Mental Illness Re-Examined,” joins and shares the programs and goals of the BCSS. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our guest, Faydra Aldridge’s career has spanned over twenty years in the…

Impulsive thoughts to harm yourself or others, confusing delusional thoughts, thoughts commanding you to do things — all of these are terrifying to experience. A breakdown in the thought process is a hallmark of schizophrenia. When does an intrusive thought become delusional and something a person might act upon? If a person has disturbing violent thoughts, are they dangerous? Host Rachel Star Withers, who has schizophrenia, shares her personal struggles with disturbing, intrusive, violent thoughts. Rachel is joined by guest Kassie Love, who is a marriage and family therapist specializing in working with people having unusual thoughts or experiences. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Guest Bio & Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Hosts Therapist Kassie Love, MMFT/MPH Hi there! My name is Kassie Love. In my line of work as a mental health provider, I’ve come to understand that what most people really want is to be heard and supported. Nobody wants to feel like…

Living with a diagnosis of schizophrenia means that you and those around you will experience multiple losses as you navigate the disorder. It can take away relationships, employment, education, performance, independence, and sense of self. Will I keep getting worse? What happens if I have another psychotic episode? What will my life look like in 10 years? What if I can’t take care of myself? It’s normal to grieve the life you or a loved one lost to schizophrenia. But, what does that grief look like and how do you keep going? Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore grieving the life you lost due to schizophrenia in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. Guest Paulie VonEdWærd-Benjamin, owner of Earth Star, Heart Root, specializing in holistic, soulful, metaphysical self-healing, joins to share how their life has changed multiple times through living with schizophrenia and how they keep going. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode…

When a mental health crisis hits, it can catch everyone off guard—the person experiencing the crisis and those around them. For many with schizophrenia, this is a person’s first psychotic episode. As a caregiver, friend, or loved one, how do you get help for them? And how does the system work? Today, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard are discussing navigating schizophrenia as a caregiver. Their guest, Scott Joffrion, father of an adult son with schizoaffective disorder, also joins to share what he wishes he had known when starting this journey of navigating schizophrenia. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our guest, Scott Joffrion, is a father of a son with schizoaffective disorder. “My personal mission is to give my loved ones the best possible recovery they can have and to help other families do the same for their loved ones. I want to make a meaningful impact in the region for awareness and education with…

The LGBTQIA+ community and psychiatry have had a very troubled past, especially when it comes to schizophrenia. Some of the first theories for the causes of schizophrenia actually centered around bisexual desires. There were even theories that people living with schizophrenia were all asexual due to the negative symptoms of schizophrenia. And those are just two examples. In this episode, we discuss LGBTQIA+ issues in relation to schizophrenia, what psychiatry got wrong, and what current studies are showing. We also hear directly from an openly transgender man who lives with schizophrenia. We’re joined by guest Lucas Silveira, a Canadian vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter from Toronto. He was the frontman of The Cliks, and is credited with being the first openly transgender man to have signed to a major record label. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our guest, Lucas Silveira, frontman of The Cliks, now a solo artist, made history as the first openly…

When managing schizophrenia, many of us have come to accept that there is a stigma around the disorder. But what happens when the stigma is from the medical professionals who are supposed to be treating, diagnosing, and helping you? Mental health professionals can even turn away people with a schizophrenia diagnosis. When we've been turned away by a therapist, psychologist, what happens next? Where do we end up? Studies have found that mental health professionals have a tendency to view people with serious mental illnesses more negatively than positively, characterizing them as manipulative, lacking in willpower, disturbing, ineffective, and difficult to communicate with. In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers and co-host Gabe Howard look at schizophrenia stigma in the medical community. Joining is guest Desire’ Brown, a mental health counselor who has worked with various social work organizations. She currently works with Monarch, which provides hope, promotes wellness, and…

Up to 80% of people with schizophrenia aren't aware they're experiencing early schizophrenia symptoms. Most people with schizophrenia go through a prodromal stage, where there's subtle changes in mood, thinking, and behavior. It's an evolution of the symptoms to come. Early indicators vary based on the age they start. An adult who develops schizophrenia will experience different signs than a child who develops the condition. Host Rachel Star Withers and cohost Gabe Howard explore the early signs of schizophrenia in children, teens, and adults. Joining to discuss the future of identifying biomarkers for schizophrenia is Carlos Larrauri, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who also lives with schizophrenia. Mr. Larrauri co-chairs the steering committee for the Accelerating Medicines Partnership® Schizophrenia (AMP® SCZ), which is working to identify early indicators of schizophrenia. To learn more about the research AMP SCZ is undertaking, please visit www.ampscz.org. To learn more -- or read the…

True crime TV shows, podcasts, and books love to explore the minds of serial killers. To perform such heinous acts a person must be “insane,” “crazy,” and “mentally unstable.” Over time, the “schizophrenic serial killer” became the monster behind many of these crimes. But is it true? Where did the stereotype of serial killers having schizophrenia come from? When was schizophrenia first considered to be a violent mental illness? What's the truth to the myth of the schizophrenic serial killer? In this episode of Inside Schizophrenia, host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard track down when schizophrenia first became associated with violence and how the myth grew. They are joined by guest Dr. Ann Wolbert Burgess, a pioneer in the assessment and treatment of victims of trauma and abuse who helped shape the FBI's behavioral analysis methods in her prolific study of the criminal mind. Warning: this episode of Inside Schizophrenia contains graphic content and offensive language…

Are you having trouble with mental illness or are you really good at managing it? Humor can heal or hurt. Is schizophrenia something to joke about? Should you make jokes about mental illness? Schizophrenia is a very serious topic, but it can be exhausting to be serious all the time. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard find the humor in having schizophrenia in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. TikTok star comedian Kody Green joins to share his journey that includes addiction, incarceration, schizophrenia, and comedy. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page. Guest Bio Kody Green (He/Him) is 28 years old with a diagnosis of undifferentiated schizophrenia. Kody is also the founder of a nonprofit, a motivational speaker, and content creator with over 1 million followers across social media platforms. He has struggled in the past with drug addiction, incarceration, and serious mental health issues. In order to be a better advocate and…

Schizophrenia affects approximately 24 million people worldwide. But does schizophrenia present the same way in every country? How do culture, religion, tradition, or even politics influence the presentation of schizophrenia? Cross-cultural awareness of psychiatric symptoms helps us to understand our ever-changing global society. In today’s episode, hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore studies and cases across the world and throughout history to discover how culture influences schizophrenia and its treatment. Joining is guest Nidhi Sinha, a final year PhD student in psychology who has been researching thematic analysis of individual experiences of audio hallucinations in India. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the episode page. Guest Bio Nidhi Sinha is a final year PhD student in cognitive psychology at the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH), where she is exploring the affective, cognitive, and cultural cues of subclinical depression. She is also a visiting…

One of the scariest things about schizophrenia is the very beginning, getting that diagnosis and learning that you — or a person that you love — has a lifelong serious mental illness. Especially in the beginning, it can be a difficult thing to accept. In fact, many people reject the idea that they're sick at all, often choosing to think, “Hey, I have a problem, but I don't need help” instead. However, accepting a diagnosis of schizophrenia is the first step to getting treatment, which is the first step toward living a full and fulfilling life. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard share their personal journeys coming to acceptance of their diagnosis and ways that family, friends, and caregivers can help their loved ones in this episode of Inside Schizophrenia. Guest Leif Gregersen, writer, teacher, and public speaker living with schizoaffective disorder, joins to discuss his journey of accepting his diagnosis and his need for treatment. To learn more -- or read the…

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been shown to be an effective treatment for people with schizophrenia, especially those with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. However, it’s not often brought up as an option for treatment. Host Rachel Star Withers, a diagnosed schizophrenic, and co-host Gabe Howard explore Rachel’s own past treatment with ECT, the intense side effect of memory loss, and why ECT is not being offered to more people with schizophrenia. Today’s guest is “Ashley” who is currently undergoing electroconvulsive therapy and shares her journey of navigating ECT while being a mother. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Guest Bio “Ashley” has schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type. She had a series of acute ECT treatments 4 years ago and has been receiving maintenance treatments ever since. Inside Schizophrenia Podcast Hosts Rachel Star Withers creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone…

Why are some people with schizophrenia able to live alone and others can’t? Why do some seem to recover while others have symptoms that persist for their entire lives? Why is suicide the leading cause of premature death in people with schizophrenia? Many people say the answer lies in psychological resilience. So, does that mean some people have more psychological resilience than others? Does having a mental disorder mean your brain is less resilient to start with? Hosts Rachel Star Withers and Gabe Howard explore the concept of psychological resilience and how it is connected to living with schizophrenia. Dr. Nicole Washington, a psychiatrist and the co-host of Healthline’s Inside Bipolar, joins to give a medical perspective on psychological resilience. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Guest Bio Dr. Nicole Washington is an ABMS board certified psychiatrist and the chief medical officer of Elocin Psychiatric Services, a primarily virtual practice where she…