Schizophrenia As I Live It (audio)

Send us Fan Mail

Living with schizophrenia isn't a journey walked alone, and the podcast episode, recorded by Bek La, Star Royal, and Monika Caesar for the Ikon Institute in Australia, "Schizophrenia and the Self: Living Beyond Diagnosis," is a testament to that truth. The podcast features myself, Diana Dirkby, a published author with firsthand experience of schizophrenia, not only personally but also through her mother's battles. Alongside her, the distinguished Professor Elyn Saks brings a dual lens of expertise in mental health law and her coping strategies for managing schizophrenia's symptoms. Rounding out our guest list is Elyn's best friend, Steve, who offers an ethical and psychological perspective on mental health practices, adding depth to our understanding of this multifaceted condition.

Our discussion traverses the rocky terrain of stigma, the silent adversary for many battling mental health conditions. Elyn and Diana bravely share their encounters with societal misconceptions and the perseverance it took to seek treatment and thrive. They stress the importance of having robust support systems and healthcare providers who listen and respond with tailored treatments. Their narratives aren't just stories; they are blueprints for hope and a call to action for greater empathy and acceptance of those with mental health challenges across all cultures.

The power of personal autonomy in the treatment of schizophrenia emerges as a theme, underscoring the value of advanced care directives and supported decision-making. Elyn's poignant stories of friendship and acceptance, alongside Diana's insights, illuminate a path forward that includes kindness, respect, and self-care. This episode isn't just an exploration; it's a rallying cry for supporting those with schizophrenia in maintaining hope and discovering coping mechanisms that lead to a fulfilling life. Join us as we celebrate the strength it takes to live beyond a diagnosis and the small acts of kindness that can make a profound difference.

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

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

Send us Fan Mail

Cracked ribs and broken toes didn't stop me, Diana Dirkby, an author living with paranoid schizophrenia, from reaching a thrilling milestone in my journey as an author. Join me as I recount the harrowing slip that led to physical hurdles yet propelled me to complete my latest manuscript, "Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies." 

As I navigate the intricate dance of preparing for my annual trek to Alaska, I'm also taking you through the evolution of my works, including the well-received "The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia." 

Please expect to be captivated by the elements of mystery and horror that bind my new book's narrative while also getting a glimpse into the dichotomy of my life as a writer with schizophrenia. Once settled in the Alaskan wilderness, you can anticipate the return of our more routine explorations into this complex mental health condition. Please stay tuned for what we promise to be an enlightening continuation of our shared journey.

#families #relationships #siblings #schizophrenia #mentalhealth #abuse #siblingabuse

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

Send us Fan Mail

Navigating the complexities of the festive season while managing mental health can be a solitary journey, but you're not alone. Join me, Diana Dirkby, as I share details of my experiences with schizophrenia during this time, offering solidarity and practical advice to those who may struggle with holiday blues or the pressure of societal norms. Whether you're carving out a peaceful celebration or fending off sensory overload, this episode is a short guide through the ups and downs of maintaining balance and joy amid seasonal chaos.

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

Send us Fan Mail

Are you ready to challenge your perception of mental health? Join me, Diana Dirkby, as I take you through the winding path of living with paranoid schizophrenia, a journey filled with highs and lows that has provided invaluable lessons. We delve into the importance of gaining objectivity, especially during relapse periods and the crucial role that trusted doctors and supportive friends and family play in my journey towards recovery. This isn't just my story; it's an opportunity to broaden our understanding of mental health and inspire those living with mental illness to find strength in a supportive circle.

Strap in as we venture deeper to explore the often overlooked impact of schizophrenia on processing comparative statements. This struggle, though rarely discussed, shines a light on the intricacies of mental health. Amidst this enlightening conversation, I share a bit about my new audiobook, "The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia" - a personal project that paints a vivid picture of living with this condition. I invite you, not only to support my work, but to deepen your understanding of schizophrenia and mental health in general. Your journey towards understanding starts here.

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

Send us Fan Mail

Unmasking and debunking the fears surrounding those living with Paranoid Schizophrenia, it's time to break down the stigma! I'm Diana Derpy and living with this complex mental disorder is my reality, just as it was for my mother. Join me, as I navigate through the intricate labyrinth of Schizophrenia; from hallucinations and paranoia to the misfiring in the brain that distorts reality. Equipped with knowledge from the National Institute of Mental Health and the psychiatry.org website, I aim to shed light on a misunderstood state of mind. Let's challenge the misconception that psychosis equates to dangerous behavior.

Psychosis, a term more often than not misused by popular media, has erroneously become synonymous with danger. This episode seeks to rectify this wrongful portrayal, taking you through my personal journey and experiences. I also discuss the wide array of symptoms associated with Schizophrenia, offering an in-depth understanding of this mental illness. Grounded in my own reality, I hope my shared struggle helps you understand that a majority of those experiencing psychosis pose no threat to others. Let's learn, unlearn, and relearn together, as we dismantle the enduring stigma that surrounds mental health.

#mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #schizophrenia #schizoaffective #mentalillness #psychosis #depressionsawareness #fictionwriting #family #relationships #nomorestigma #fightthestigmaofmentalillness #letstalk #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

Send us Fan Mail

As someone living with paranoid schizophrenia, I, Diana Dirkby, offer a firsthand account of the often misunderstood world of psychosis and the stigmas associated with it, for example stemming from misrepresentations in the media. Join me as we travel together through my experiences, exploring the complexities of schizophrenia and psychosis and how they contribute to feelings of social isolation and rejection.

We confront the prejudices faced by individuals with schizophrenia, prejudices that are often born out of fear and misunderstanding. Drawing from my experiences and those of my mother's life, we aim to challenge these stigmas and advocate for a shift in societal attitudes towards mental health. Tune in as we encourage openness and acceptance and invite you to venture further into our world with our book, "The Overlife, a Tale of Schizophrenia." Let's challenge the fear, break down the barriers, and foster compassion and understanding.

#schizophrenia #psychosis #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #fightthestigma #family #relationships

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

Send us Fan Mail

In this first episode, I discuss the main goals of this podcast and its accompanying book, "The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia," by Diana Dirkby.

Ever felt misunderstood or misrepresented? Often, that's the reality for those living with schizophrenia - a brain disorder that's profoundly complex and still shrouded in stigma. I'm Diana Dirkby, and I hope to break down some misconceptions by discussing my mother's experience and my own of living with paranoid schizophrenia. I will offer you an intimate view of our daily life against the backdrop of Australia—an honest, unfiltered portrayal aiming to tackle the stigmas associated with schizophrenia.

I'm thrilled also to introduce my new book, "The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia," where I've penned down my experiences. It's more than just a memoir; it's a deep dive into the intricacies of this misunderstood condition. We'll explore specific topics related to our journey each week, assuring you a better understanding of schizophrenia. So, prepare to challenge your preconceptions and join us on this enlightening journey. Who knows? It may change the way you view mental health forever.

#schizophrenia  #psychosis  #schizoaffective   #caregiver #schizophreniaawareness #schizophreniarecovery  #schizophreniasupport #schizophreniatreatment #schizophreniahelp #schizophreniamanagement  #schizophreniaspectrum #brainhealth #brainhealthmatters #brainhealthadvocate #brainhealthsupport #brainhealthisimportant #brainhealthawareness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthadvocate #mentalhealthsupport #mentalhealthrecovery #mentalhealthsupport #mentalillnesstreatment #mentalhealthmanagement #fightthestigmaofmentalilless #fightthestigma #family #relationships #motherdaughter #daughtermother #fiction

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

Send us Fan Mail

We’re thrilled to share that Diana's novel, "The Overlife, a Tale of Schizophrenia," a riveting narrative shedding light on the experiences of living with paranoid schizophrenia, is now available on Amazon in both Kindle and paperback formats.  With this episode Diana will wrap up Part 1 of her Podcast series. Part 2 will air soon!

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

Send us Fan Mail

Today, October 10, 2023, is World Mental Health Day and this occasion is the theme of this episode.

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

Send us Fan Mail

Today's episode summarizes my approach to writing about schizophrenia and psychosis, mental health, and family and relationships in my novel "The Overlife, A Tale of Schizophrenia."

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