Janice Arnoldi
Janice Arnoldi
Schizophrenia – The Most Stigmatized and Misunderstood Mental Illness
Schizophrenia – The Most Stigmatized and Misunderstood Mental Illness
Schizophrenia – The Most Stigmatized and Misunderstood Mental Illness
Sunday 11th February 2024
Jesse Bigelow shares his journey with schizophrenia, from misdiagnosis to peer support work, breaking down stigma and fostering empathy.
24 minutes
Informative
Honest
Compassionate
Inspiring
Supportive
About this podcast
Author:
Janice Arnoldi
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Body & Mind
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Parenting & Children
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Episodes:
102 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Breaking Down Barriers: Jesse Bigelow's Journey with Schizophrenia
Episode Overview
- Schizophrenia is often misunderstood and highly stigmatized.
- Symptoms can include delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized speech.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial but challenging due to symptom overlap with substance use.
- Peer support workers play a vital role in mental health recovery.
- Understanding and compassion can significantly impact those living with schizophrenia.
When I first heard the voices, they were actually within my head. On the left side, I heard a commanding destructive male voice that I believed was the devil.
In this eye-opening episode of 'Life Unscripted - Stories of Mental Health and Addiction', host Janice Arnoldi welcomes Jesse Bigelow, a peer support worker, to share his journey with schizophrenia. Jesse's candid account offers a rare glimpse into the realities of living with one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized mental illnesses. From childhood to his teenage years spent battling substance abuse, Jesse reveals how his initial symptoms were mistaken for drug-induced psychosis.
He discusses the eventual diagnosis of schizophrenia and the life-altering impact it had on him. Jesse describes the harrowing experiences of hearing voices and dealing with paranoia, giving listeners a raw look into the daily struggles faced by those with schizophrenia. His religious delusions, despite not being raised in a religious household, add another layer to his complex story.
Jesse's transformation from a patient to a peer support worker is both inspiring and hopeful, showing how he now helps others navigate their own mental health challenges. Janice and Jesse also explore the stigma surrounding schizophrenia and the importance of understanding and compassion. They highlight how symptoms can often be confused with substance use, making accurate diagnosis and treatment even more challenging.
Jesse's work in hospitals, assisting patients in their most vulnerable moments, underscores the value of peer support in mental health recovery. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of schizophrenia and the human stories behind the diagnosis. Jesse's bravery in sharing his experiences not only educates but also offers hope to those struggling with similar issues. Don't miss out on this powerful conversation that breaks down barriers and fosters empathy.