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Can the right attitude, therapy, and medication truly allow someone with a mental illness to achieve anything, even their wildest dreams? Join me, Diana Dirkby, as I challenge this widespread notion on "Schizophrenia as I Live It." Through my personal journey living with paranoid schizophrenia, I'll reveal the compromises I've had to make and the reality of managing the illness while pursuing a career. As a former research mathematician turned writer, I share how redefining success and finding fulfillment has been crucial in my journey. 

Hear the unvarnished truth about balancing ambition with acceptance and why it's important to choose supportive collaborators and projects that align with your strengths. I'll also discuss my fictional work, "The Overlife," which mirrors my experiences with schizophrenia. Whether you live with a mental illness or support someone who does, this episode offers valuable insights into achieving a fulfilling life without being unfairly blamed for struggles or pressured by unattainable role models. Listen in for a candid conversation on finding happiness and fulfillment amidst the challenges.

#DianaDirkby #TheOverlife #A TaleofSchizophrenia #Schizophrenia #MentalIllness #FamilyDynamics #CaregiverBurden #Resilience #Hope #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthStigma #Strength #Love #Compassion #SecondChance #Transformation #Fiction #MentalHealthPortrayal #FamilyStruggles #EmotionalTurmoil #PoignantStory #GrippingNarrative #UnforgettableCharacters #MustReadBook

Pastime With Good Company by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company 

Pastime With Good Company, composed by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company

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Struggling to find the perfect way to consume books while managing the symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia? Join me, Diana Dirkby, as I unravel the complexities of reading with visual and auditory hallucinations and why audiobooks have become my sanctuary. Discover my personal journey from battling the chaos of jumbled words on a page to finding comfort in the soothing cadence of a narrator's voice. Gain insight into how these auditory experiences provide a much-needed escape and allow me to stay connected to the stories I love, even when my symptoms are at their peak.

I also open up about my writing process, sharing how creating fiction remains a therapeutic outlet amidst the challenges of schizophrenia. Hear about the transformation of my novel "The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia" into an engaging audiobook, and the meticulous selection of the perfect narrator to bring my story to life. Whether you’re managing similar symptoms or curious about the intersection of mental health and literature, this episode offers a heartfelt exploration of resilience, creativity, and the power of storytelling in all its forms.

#DianaDirkby #TheOverlife #A TaleofSchizophrenia #Schizophrenia #MentalIllness #FamilyDynamics #CaregiverBurden #Resilience #Hope #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthStigma #Strength #Love #Compassion #SecondChance #Transformation #Fiction #MentalHealthPortrayal #FamilyStruggles #EmotionalTurmoil #PoignantStory #GrippingNarrative #UnforgettableCharacters #MustReadBook #Amazon

Pastime With Good Company by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company 

Pastime With Good Company, composed by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company

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Can you imagine navigating the complexities of paranoid schizophrenia while managing a busy online presence? Diana Dirkby takes us through her personal journey, filled with both challenges and triumphs, as she shares the latest updates in her life and work. From launching a new website to revamping her social media profiles, Diana’s story is both inspiring and insightful. She candidly discusses her recent accident and how it's impacted her work, illustrating the resilience and determination that defines her path.

Get the inside scoop on Diana’s brand-new website, which promises to be the ultimate hub for her books, blogs, and podcasts. Learn about the changes to her social media presence, including a fresh Instagram handle and a new Facebook page, all enhanced with the help of Amazon. Diana ensures her followers will enjoy a more engaging and professional experience across all platforms. Tune in to discover how she’s transforming her digital landscape and what you can look forward to in her upcoming projects. Thank you for continuing to support Diana on this remarkable journey.

#mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #schizophrenia #paranoidschizophrenia #schizoaffective #mentalillness #psychosis #depressionsawareness #fictionwriting #family #relationships #nomorestigma #fightthestigmaofmentalillness #letstalk #lookafteryourself #schizophreniaawareness #mentalillnessrecovery #mentalillnesstreatment #motherdaughter #brainhealth #siblingabuse #horror #thriller

Pastime With Good Company by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company 

Pastime With Good Company, composed by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company

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What if a person’s greatest insights came during their darkest hours? Join me, Diana Dirkby, as I celebrate a major milestone—my book "The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia" has become a bestseller on Amazon Kindle! I'll share exclusive details on where you can purchase this powerful story and highlight the unique experience offered by the audiobook version, narrated by the talented Wendy Moman. Plus, get an exciting sneak peek at my upcoming novel, "Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies," featuring Isabel Morse, a brilliant scholar of Greek myths who is also living with schizophrenia. Dive into the complex world of sibling abuse and uncover how Isabel’s expertise becomes instrumental in solving a series of kidnappings in the town of Vraboro.
But that’s not all—this episode goes beyond fiction to address real-world challenges of engaging with severe mental illness. By sharing Isabel’s story, we explore the importance of empathy and understanding when someone is experiencing a mental health crisis. I open up about my personal frustrations and the struggles of separating one’s identity from their illness. We emphasize that contributions made during a relapse can still be meaningful, highlighting the critical need for patience and compassion. Tune in to gain deeper insights into the lives of those living with mental health conditions and learn how we can all foster a more empathetic world.
#DianaDirkby #TheOverlife #A TaleofSchizophrenia #Schizophrenia #MentalIllness #FamilyDynamics #CaregiverBurden #Resilience #Hope #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthStigma #Strength #Love #Compassion #SecondChance #Transformation #Fiction #MentalHealthPortrayal #FamilyStruggles #EmotionalTurmoil #PoignantStory #GrippingNarrative #UnforgettableCharacters #MustReadBook

Pastime With Good Company by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company 

Pastime With Good Company, composed by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company

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Have you ever wondered what it's like to navigate the complex world of paranoid schizophrenia while trying to hold on to your true self?  My debut novel, "The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia," provides insights into this dilemma. In this heartfelt episode, I open up about my experiences with multiple relapses and psychotic breaks, highlighting the daily challenges and the constant battle to maintain my sense of identity amidst auditory and visual hallucinations.

Get ready to gain a compassionate understanding of schizophrenia, and learn the crucial role caregivers play in the lives of those affected by this illness. I discuss the often misunderstood distinction between schizophrenia and dissociative identity disorder, shedding light on the unique ways schizophrenia impacts one's reality. You'll hear about my personal strategies for preserving my true self, which include prioritizing time with loved ones and indulging in activities that bring me joy. This episode aims to foster empathy and awareness, providing a window into the life of someone living with severe mental illness.

#mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #schizophrenia #paranoidschizophrenia #schizoaffective #mentalillness #psychosis #depressionsawareness #fictionwriting #family #relationships #nomorestigma #fightthestigmaofmentalillness #letstalk #lookafteryourself #schizophreniaawareness #mentalillnessrecovery #mentalillnesstreatment #motherdaughter #brainhealth 

Pastime With Good Company by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company 

Pastime With Good Company, composed by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company

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Imagine discovering your friend has a mental health diagnosis like schizophrenia. Would you know how to respond, or would fear and hesitation cloud your judgment? This episode promises to smash through societal misconceptions and shed light on the harsh realities many face due to the stigma perpetuated by media misrepresentations. Join me, Diana Dirkby, as I unpack the damaging stereotypes often portrayed in movies, TV shows, and books, and how these contribute to personal experiences of rejection. Not all hope is lost, as we'll also celebrate movies like "A Beautiful Mind" and "The Crowded Room" for offering more accurate portrayals. With personal stories, including my insightful exchanges with John Nash, we'll explore the crucial role of education and advocacy groups like the Schizophrenia and Psychosis Action Alliance and prominent activist Michelle Hammer in combating stigma.

In friendships, the revelation of a mental health diagnosis can strain connections, but it doesn't have to. I'll discuss the fears and hesitations that might arise and suggest alternative ways to communicate, such as through social media and email, to ease the conversation. We'll emphasize that mental illness is not something to be feared. Moreover, I'll share my aspirations as a fiction writer to bridge the gap between mental health consumers and their loved ones, fostering better mutual understanding. Join me for a nuanced examination, considering diverse backgrounds and limitations, aimed at nurturing genuine relationships and understanding in the face of mental health challenges.

Pastime With Good Company by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company 

Pastime With Good Company, composed by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company

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Have you ever felt like the universe was conspiring against you through an eerie sequence of events? That's what we're unpacking today, as I, Diana Dirkby, share my personal confrontations with coincidence and its particularly intense effects on those of us with paranoid schizophrenia. The ever-present challenge of discerning reality from paranoia becomes even more complex when ordinary occurrences take on a sinister hue. I'm peeling back the layers on how I navigate the treacherous waters of coincidence, offering insights on keeping paranoia at bay, especially when life's misfortunes, like fraud, strike more than once or when social media provides an overwhelming sense of false importance.

My journey reveals the delicate balance of engaging with the world while protecting one's mental health—whether it's through hobbies or measured interactions on social media. Without a guest to distract us, this episode is an intimate deep dive into my lived experiences, strategies to block paranoia, and the continuous pursuit of understanding. I extend not just stories of my trials, but also a beacon of hope and advice for fellow travelers on this intricate path. Join me for a candid look into managing schizophrenia, mitigating symptoms, and the ongoing quest to outsmart the mind's deceptive games.

Pastime With Good Company by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company 

Pastime With Good Company, composed by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company

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When I, Diana Dirkby, began my journey with paranoid schizophrenia, the path was fraught with misconceptions and isolation. Today, I share not only my story but also engage with the difficult realities of stigma in mental health. Our latest episode ventures into the heart of these challenges, revealing the intricate dance between misunderstanding and awareness. We traverse the landscape of severe mental illnesses and the importance of organizations like NAMI, shedding light on the potent connections social media can forge. A recent interaction I had serves as a poignant example of the discomfort some grapple with when confronted with mental health discussions, laying bare the urgent need for empathy and open dialogue.

As we wrap up, I’m reminded of the strength found in community and the conversations that bridge divides. Your support as listeners is the backbone of our podcast, and for that, I’m eternally grateful. For those eager to delve deeper, my book "The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia" offers a glimpse into the life shaped by this condition. And for the curious minds, stay alert for the announcement of my second book—an expansion of this narrative that promises to enrich our understanding even further. Join me next time as we continue to champion the cause of mental health, one honest conversation at a time.

Pastime With Good Company by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company 

Pastime With Good Company, composed by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company

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As Diana Dirkby, I've walked through the shadowed valleys of paranoid schizophrenia and emerged into the light of understanding and advocacy. May, as Mental Health Awareness Month, offers a poignant backdrop to my candid narrative, where I peel back the layers of stigma and reveal the daily triumphs over the unseen battles within. Join me for a deeply personal journey that honors the history of mental health observance, champions the efforts of NAMI's "Take the Moment" campaign, and extends an empathetic hand to those wrestling with their own mental health challenges. 

Embarking on a heartfelt exploration, I reflect on not just my own experiences, but also on the legacy of my mother's struggles with the lack of acceptance she faced. This episode isn't just a conversation—it's an avenue to amplify the voices of those who often feel unheard. I intertwine the power of relationships and the significance of understanding as we navigate life with mental health conditions. With an invitation to explore my upcoming novel, "Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies," we address the complexities of mental health embedded within the intricate tapestry of family dynamics. Here's to a session that informs, inspires, and invigorates the spirit of inclusivity and support for all.

#mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #schizophrenia #paranoidschizophrenia #schizoaffective #mentalillness #psychosis #depressionsawareness #fictionwriting #family #relationships #nomorestigma #fightthestigmaofmentalillness #letstalk #lookafteryourself #schizophreniaawareness #mentalillnessrecovery #mentalillnesstreatment #motherdaughter #brainhealth 

Pastime With Good Company by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company 

Pastime With Good Company, composed by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company

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When my mother's schizophrenia cast a shadow over her physical health, the consequences were heartbreakingly irreversible. Her story, interwoven with my own, underscores the often overlooked but critical importance of holistic well-being. On today's podcast, I, Diana Dirkby, delve into the complex dance of managing both mental and physical health when living with a condition like schizophrenia. Reflecting on poignant experiences from "The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia," I'll guide you through the necessity of regular health check-ups, the impact of antipsychotic medications on the body, and share my personal strategies for maintaining balance in the face of this illness.

As we journey together, I'll offer insights into the delicate interplay of mental and physical health, illustrating how one can support or undermine the other. I'll also shed light on practical steps for managing the side effects of treatment, the importance of professional guidance, and the pitfalls of short-term solutions like crash diets. For anyone touched by schizophrenia or interested in the broader conversation about health, join me for a candid discussion that promises to educate, empower, and inspire a more systematic approach to well-being.

#mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #schizophrenia #paranoidschizophrenia #schizoaffective #mentalillness #psychosis #depressionsawareness #fictionwriting #family #relationships #nomorestigma #fightthestigmaofmentalillness #letstalk #lookafteryourself #schizophreniaawareness #mentalillnessrecovery #mentalillnesstreatment #motherdaughter #brainhealth 

Pastime With Good Company by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company 

Pastime With Good Company, composed by King Henry VIII, played by The Chestnut Brass Company