I am a fiction writer with schizophrenia. Today, I want to discuss the advantages of daily routines for writing and schizophrenia. The renowned fiction writer Walter Mosley teaches Fiction and Storytelling in his MasterClass app
Hello! If you’re new to this Blog, my name is Diana Dirkby. I live with paranoid schizophrenia, CPTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Syndrome), and PTSD (Post Traumatic Syndrome). Today, I will focus on schizophrenia and talk
Hello! Today, I want to talk about living with paranoid schizophrenia and CPTSD. Living with schizophrenia, as did my mother, inspired me to write my novel “The Overlife: A Tale Of Schizophrenia.” Trauma from my
Trigger Warning: this Blog post features the topic of sibling abuse. For an excellent source on the topic of child abuse, especially child sexual abuse and safe parenting see the website: https://parentingsafechildren.com/. For more recommendations,
Today, we’ll explore ageism in mental health and challenge its stigma. Specifically, ageism means age-based discrimination in mental health. For example, it includes stigma against older adults. By older adults, I refer to those over
This Blog Is In Two Parts: A chaotic poet and a wise writer. (i) I begin with a poem by the famous Australian poet Roland Robinson, 1912-1992. He is the first half of a chaotic
I live with paranoid schizophrenia, so you may wonder how I earned a living doing research in and teaching mathematics in universities for many years before retiring to be a fiction writer. This leads to
When The Police Came To My Home. I live with paranoid schizophrenia. You may ask, “What Is That?” There are as many answers as people living with schizophrenia. Yet, no matter how often you explain
I am happy to announce that my new Podcast, whose full title is “Fractured Ink: Writing in Life’s Chaos,” is live. The Podcast will have an audio version and a video version. “Fractured Ink” is
In this post, I want to share three extracts from each of my two published novels. You’ll recall that these novels are “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” (https://www.amazon.com/dp/191685219X), whose title I’ll abbreviate to “The
Today, I want to announce that my Podcast, “Schizophrenia As I Live It,” will have two more episodes: today’s and a final one at a future date yet to be determined. The wait won’t be
April 1, 2025 (#WearTealDay) If you are following this Blog, you will know that I have published a book, “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies,” about three types of sibling abuse: emotional, physical, and sexual.
Blog 03/27/2025 “Tell me a story.” I, Diana Dirkby, have often said that a mental health consumer is not defined by their mental illness. The proof is that I have been plagued for many months
Imagine that your child has been kidnapped. How far would you go to save your child? Would you follow the rules of the captor, even if those rules made no sense? Or would you take
One. two, three—three missing teenagers. Three grieving families. Three cryptic punishments. Diana Dirkby’s latest book, Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies, is set to transform your ordinary day into a chilling and horrifying nightmare. It
What if your hometown suddenly became the setting for an unthinkable horror? In the fall of 2010, Vrayboro, Texas, was just another small town. It was nestled deep in the Piney Woods. Families knew one
Imagine one morning you woke up to realize the peace has been shattered. What if you discover that your beloved teenager, who comes home every day from school, did not make it through the house?
While some books just provide a good reading experience and entertain, some books keep you on the edge. These are the books that consume you, leaving you questioning every turn, every revelation, and every motive
Throughout history, myths have served as cautionary tales, moral lessons, and explanations for the unexplained and the profound. But what happens when these ancient legends come alive in the modern world? The result will be
The disappearances in Vrayboro in “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” are baffling, leaving residents and law enforcement searching for answers. In the midst of this unsettling situation, Isabel Morse, a resident and expert in
The town of Vrayboro, nestled in the dense woodlands of “Texas in the novel, Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” was known for its tight-knit community and peaceful environment But when there comes a strange
Vrayboro might seem like a quaint town nestled in the Piney Woods of eastern Texas—a community with charm and tranquility. But that peace was soon shattered on a fateful day in the fall of 201.
You are missing out big if you are not reading these two gems! Whether you prefer a thought-provoking book or an exciting, suspenseful story, the right book can make your time more enjoyable—a moment that
Believe it or not, sibling relationships are often a sweet temptation and shaped with love and care. However, in some cases, it can be complicated and shaped by rivalry, hatred, and jealousy. In Three Kidnapped,
Honestly, very few of us know the reality of schizophrenia. And those who lived it, like Diana Dirkby, know the stigma and fear. Due to media misrepresentation and lack of awareness, we are often unaware
Are you someone who is into books that have more to discover through every turning page of the book? If yes, then you need to dive into Diana Dirkby’s novel, “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three
Diana Dirkby’s novel, “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies,” captures the tension of a small-town crisis, highlighting the interplay between law enforcement and the community when faced with the unthinkable. The disappearances of three teenagers—Sebastian
Imagine being eight years old and tasked with responsibilities far beyond your years. You are not just helping with homework or tidying up your room—you are managing your mother’s paranoid schizophrenia while navigating your father’s
On December 16, 2024, I received an email informing me that I had won a 2024 International Impact Book Award for my book “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia” by Diana Dirkby. You’ll recall that
Big News: My new book, “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies,” by Diana Dirkby, is now published as a Kindle book. It’s a steal at $4.99 (and $0.00 with enough credits.) The paperback is also
Today, I wanted to discuss the solitude many people living with schizophrenia feel tempted by. I am one such person. These days, solitude means just me and my spouse. My love for my spouse and
With November approaching Thanksgiving, it is almost time for us to anticipate the best time of the year. Yes, you guessed it right. We are talking about Christmas! The time when you can enjoy the
Living with a mental condition is not that easy. From mental stigma to anxiety trauma and challenges—there is so much to ask for! Diana Dirkby’s “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” offers a poignant and
Have you ever heard of Vrayboro, a small town nestled in the dense woodlands of Piney Woods, Texas? Perhaps the town is not that peaceful anymore. It all begins in the fall of 2010. With
Justice, punishment, and resilience. While all of these subjects are different, they deeply discuss fundamental human experiences. Diana Dirkby’s novels “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” and “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” intertwine these
Do you crave for a unique and mind-boggling narrative? Perhaps a book that will keep you glued till the very end? A story that will chill your blood? In that case, Diana Dirkby’s upcoming second
Because of its complex nature, only some books have targeted mental health issues like Schizophrenia! “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia“ by Diana Dirkby, in this context, is no different. Presenting a raw and authentic
Living with a mental health condition like Paranoid Schizophrenia can feel like trying to steer through a storm without a clear map!The stress can be intense, overwhelming, and potentially destabilizing. In my latest podcast episode,
With “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” Schizophrenia is often misunderstood and misrepresented! But this mental toll can lead individuals and their families to stigma. Diana Dirkby’s novel “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” tackles
Set against the suspenseful backdrop of a kidnapping in the fictional town of Vrayboro, my new book, “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies,” takes readers on a terrifying journey into the complexities of sibling relationships.
A Look Into “The Overlife” A fictitious yet realistic look into schizophrenia! Despite the abundance of books, articles, and publications on schizophrenia, many people continue to live in a bubble and fail to comprehend the
A Peek At “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” The best thriller in town! There are many mind-bending stories in town, but nothing makes a significant impact like “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” by
What will happen when three teenagers—Sebastian Ward, Mary Bell, and Fred McCarthy go missing unexpectedly? Families are left in turmoil, authorities scramble for answers, and rumors spiral out of control. In Diana Dirkby’s gripping psychological
Every new day offers a world of possibilities and untapped potential-which makes it a perfect time to count on new and promising resolutions. However, we often find ourselves confused, feeling tangled within a web of
Living with schizophrenia is a nightmare and can be a daunting and isolating experience for both the individual and their loved ones! The complexities of this mental illness often lead to feelings of helplessness and
Schizophrenia is a serious and complex mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. People with schizophrenia may seem like they have lost touch with reality. It usually involves delusions (false beliefs),
Everyone wants to have a healthy, happy, and beautiful life. But we often take a stand for it! Just when our lives get stuck, frustrated, slowed, boring, dull, and stressful, we tend to turn to
The Most Notorious Kidnappings To Date Imagine living happily, cherishing moments of joy and fun with your family, when suddenly one of your loved ones seems nowhere to be found. Maybe they got vanished without
Have you ever read a book so captivating that you won’t be able to put it down? Perhaps a mystery, a thriller, or a touching read where the coronary heart pounding chases or the emotional
schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition. It affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, it is frequently misrepresented or oversimplified. Diana Dirkby’s novel, The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia, offers
Diana Dirkby’s Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies is a remarkable story that melds suspense, horror, and mythology into a riveting and ever-chilling story. With enriched storytelling and an eerie atmosphere, this book makes it
Weekends are precious — a time when we can escape the daily grind and recharge. But we often find ourselves caught up in a whirlwind of mundane tasks that make our weekends more boring than
Are you someone seeking a captivating escape from the ordinary? Do you relish stories that delve into the complexities of the human experience, challenging your perspectives and leaving a lasting impact? If so, then prepare
Luckily, we have plenty of days throughout the year—-365—which makes each day a perfect opportunity to reflect, recharge, and change towards betterment. However, with the increasing chaos, responsibility, and digital detox, we often find ourselves
Attention readers, this is your chance to read something exceptional with a gripping yet exciting storyline that will keep you glued to your seats. Yes, you guessed it right—we are talking about thriller books! A
Luckily, we have plenty of days throughout the year—-365—which makes each day a perfect opportunity to reflect, recharge, and change towards betterment. However, with the increasing chaos, responsibility, and digital detox, we often find ourselves
Frustration can sometimes be confused with anger or anxiety. However, it is a similar type of emotional reaction to stress. It is common to have this feeling when you encounter daily stressors at home, at
In today’s fast-paced world, dominated by screens and constant information streams, curling up with a good book does not seem to be a nice idea—right? But the truth is the benefits of reading books extend
You might have heard the word schizophrenia, but let me tell you that this is much more than that. In its simplest forms, schizophrenia is a serious mental illness or disorder that affects how a
If you think that it is easy to deal with schizophrenia, think again! Because Diana Dirkby’s poignant novel, “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia,” explores its bitter reality. Through the eyes of Sarah, a character
Paula Tretkoff is writing under the pseudonym Diana Dirkby, has crafted two riveting novels that bound by a profound and compelling theme: schizophrenia. In both The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia and Three Kidnapped, Three
Why “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” Will Leave You Breathless There are a lot of stories that offer both entertainment and thrill—narratives that will run a chill down your spine—or make your blood cold.
“Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” — A Trio Of Deception And Evil Have you ever read a story so chilling that it will chill your blood? Perhaps a story that will make you think
Diving Deeper into “The Over life” Diana Dirkby’s “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” is more than just a book. It is an intimate exploration of a family’s journey through the complex web of mental
Two Novels—One Connection “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” and “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies.” In a world riddled with stigma, misunderstanding, and chaos, it can be difficult to find time to unwind and
Diana Dirkby takes us on a captivating journey through contrasting realities in her latest releases, “The Overlife” and “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies.” Both novels delve into the darker aspects of the human experience,
To be honest, there’s something unsettling about idyllic towns. The picture-perfect facade often hides a dark undercurrent, a secret waiting to be unearthed. Diana Dirkby masterfully exploits this unsettling truth in “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings,
Diana Dirkby’s “The Overlife” isn’t a book you simply read; it’s an experience you inhabit. It’s a raw and unflinching portrayal of life lived in the shadow of schizophrenia – not just one life, but
In Diana Dirkby’s poignant novel, “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia,” Sarah emerges as a beacon of hope for countless individuals living with schizophrenia. Her character is a testament to the human spirit’s incredible resilience
What if you could journey into the heart of a family grappling with mental illness, experiencing their triumphs and struggles firsthand? What if you could be transported to a seemingly idyllic town where darkness lurks
You might have heard many chilling stories or seen many horror motives that will shock you to the core, but Diana Dirkby’s “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” is unlike any other—a novel that will
Setting firm boundaries is essential when living with a mental illness or brain disorder. If by over-stepping them, you feel stress, then that can be a harmful trigger for you. It’s quite OK to say
There are a lot of good books out there for people who want to understand schizophrenia. An example is Surviving Schizophrenia, 7th Edition: A Family Manual, by E. Fuller Torrey. It’s a non-fiction book available
If someone has trouble understanding you because you live with a mental illness, that is not a stigma if they research what it means to live with it in good faith. Most people exercising stigma
When struggling with a bad time for your mental health or your brain disorder, you can lose the desire to do what you enjoy. At those times, it’s as if a closed door separates me
May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the USA. It’s an excellent time to reach out to mental health advocacy groups to see how you can be involved and supported by them. For example, NAMI
Paranoia, a term misunderstood by and scary to many, is, for someone like me living with paranoid schizophrenia, a lot of hard work. What is it? The explanation takes more than a blog post, so
Today I am copying the Blog post from my Blog on my dianadirkby.com site, because music is so important to me. Here goes: “There was always classical music in our home when I was growing
In an attempt to show that a mental illness or brain disorder need not stop you from doing anything you like, mental health advocacy groups often talk about highly successful people who are also mental
We all have goals for the day, week, or month ahead. Still, those with a brain disorder or a mental illness need to recognize that comparing themselves to others or an unrealistic version of themselves
I take medication to help control the symptoms of my schizophrenia, and it’s a suitable medication for me. However, it was a long road with a lot of support to reach where I am now.
When a mental health consumer is in crisis, sometimes others cannot understand that they can’t simply “snap out of it” and jump from their world into another. Typically, once your mental health crisis is evident
There are mental advocacy organizations that provide online and in-person support groups. For example, NAMI (National Alliance On Mental Illness) provides support groups across the USA that are moderated by trained individuals. These support groups
Most of you have probably been admonished for saying something politically incorrect without feeling it’s a big deal. There are so many ways to be labeled politically incorrect that the growing list of what we
Unfortunately, some family members and close friends can abandon the mental health consumer during a mental health crisis. Such people may offer nothing more than a request that the mental health consumer keeps away from
It’s often overlooked that the caregivers of mental health consumers also need support. They have to negotiate caring for someone who needs a lot of understanding, time spent with them, and the stigma against mental
Today is Mother’s Day! Like me, my mother lived with schizophrenia. She was a wonderful mother despite this brain disorder, especially until we were pre-teens when her schizophrenia worsened. Despite this disability, she could not
To quote from the website https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia of the American Psychiatric Association, schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder that affects less than one percent of the U.S. population. When schizophrenia is active, symptoms can include delusions,
I have found that a pet can be a tremendous support when I feel alone and stressed. Their love is unconditional; all they ask is love and reasonable care in return. You may be able
A trigger automatically upsets or traumatizes a mental health consumer due to past trauma or their current mental health symptoms. Rather than the word “trigger,” which evokes “guns,” I prefer to use the expression “lights
It’s often challenging to fight the symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia and find pleasure in engaging with others. That can drive you to remain in the confines of your home rather than venture outdoors. This gut
In an earlier post, I encouraged you to write about your experiences with mental illnesses and brain disorders, whether as a mental health consumer or someone who cares about one. A different project is to
Today, I uploaded the first Chapter of my Podcast: “Schizophrenia As I Live It.” You can find it in the Podcast section of this website https://overliveschizophrenia.com. In this Podcast, I will talk about my experiences
The stigma of mental illnesses or brain disorders can make mental health consumers hard on themselves as they seek to incorporate the prejudice exercised against them. Taking care of someone else’s ignorance is not your
On days when I struggle to free my mind from paranoid loops or obsessive thoughts going nowhere, I find that stopping to do a guided meditation session helps. I use a meditation app on my
As someone who has endured multiple psychotic breaks due to living with schizophrenia, I know that you cannot always “return to normal” if that means going back to where you were before a psychotic break.
May 24 is World Schizophrenia Day, also called World Schizophrenia Awareness Day. I display an image of a rhinoceros and her calf because animals are such a source of inspiration and tranquility to me when
I once confided in a friend about problems I was having with my family. They advised: “Think about a worse problem for a while, then return to your problem. You may find you aren’t quite
I live with paranoid schizophrenia, as did my mother. My mother’s condition worsened due to her inability to admit she had psychiatric problems and the failure of her doctors to handle her denial. She became
When describing schizophrenia, experts usually put “not knowing what is real” near the top of the significant symptoms. Undoubtedly, someone undergoing a relapse of schizophrenia often misinterprets what their senses tell them and can harbor
I am recording a Podcast entitled “Schizophrenia As I Live It” to accompany my forthcoming book “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia.” So far, I have posted three chapters on the website for that book:
When living with a mental illness or brain disorder, you can be so relieved when you are doing better that you can forget, or prefer to ignore, that you may struggle with your mental health
Today’s blog gives tips on creating a schedule to suit your mental health. Everyone’s mental health needs are unique, so finding a program that prioritizes self-care and promotes positive mental health may require some work.
In my book “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia,” I write about the substantial benefits of the correct antipsychotic medication from a competent psychiatrist. We often see phrases like “With the appropriate medication and therapy,
Here are some tips on choosing a suitable psychiatrist for paranoid schizophrenia. Most of these tips can apply to other mental illnesses: Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a psychiatrist for paranoid
Here are some tips on how to find a good psychologist for paranoid schizophrenia. They apply equally well as tips for any mental health consumer: When you are interviewing potential psychologists, there are a few
Socializing when you are paranoid can be challenging, but it is possible. Here are some tips: Here are some additional tips that may be helpful: Remember, you are not alone. Many people, even if they
The image above is an excellent summary of psychiatry versus psychology and where they meet. In mathematics, such diagrams are common in set theory and are called Venn diagrams. The light aqua areas pertain to
Once someone knows you live with a mental illness or brain disorder, that person may put you permanently under their microscope. It happens too often. You may therefore behave in a most rigid and conformist
In real life, in movies, and TV shows, you often hear people say, “The situation is so schizophrenic. I have several choices, all of which seem good to me.” More darkly, you may hear, from
It can be challenging to motivate yourself to exercise when you struggle with your mental health. On paper, the best thing to do would be to join a group of people practicing some exercise you
Some well-known insightful movies have been made about someone living with a mental illness. Examples are: “The Three Faces Of Eve (1957),” “A Beautiful Mind (2001),” and “Silver Linings Playbook (2012).” However, these movies are
What is Anosognosia? It is a Greek term meaning “to not know a disease.” NAMI (National Alliance On Mental Illness) has some information on its website about Anosognosia: click here to see it. From that
A lot of the stigma surrounding mental illness, particularly paranoid schizophrenia, is founded on a reaction of fear when someone either learns you are a mental health consumer or sees you behaving abnormally when you
The use of “people first” language in the context of political correctness when speaking about mental health is not as widespread or even acknowledged as it needs to be. For example, “Rhys is schizophrenic” is
Several Blog posts ago, we talked about Anosognosia. Today, we’ll talk about the LEAP method and schizophrenia, a mainstream, proven approach to helping people overcome anosognosia and accept treatment for their mental illness or brain
In this blog post, we will compare the meaning of “Overlife” in my book “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia” and the meaning of the same word among scholars of Ancient Egypt or Egyptologists. We
One of the often-quoted symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia is a loss of touch with reality. However, it is important to stress that the person living with schizophrenia and currently struggling with its symptoms still perceives
There are various ways that stigma against someone living with paranoid schizophrenia can arise. Many people are scared of the diagnosis itself. The words “paranoid schizophrenia” evoke fear in a person who often does not
A common symptom of schizophrenia is auditory hallucinations. Auditory hallucinations happen when you hear voices or noises that aren’t there. The sounds you hear may seem real, but they’re not. It’s essential to include noises
A common symptom of schizophrenia is visual hallucinations. Visual hallucinations happen when you see people or objects that aren’t there or when your visual perception of people and things that are real is distorted or
Ageism, or agism, is discrimination against individuals or groups based on age. The term was coined in 1969 by Robert Neil Butler to describe discrimination against seniors. Butler defined “ageism” as a combination of three
In the first post for this blog, I encouraged mental health consumers to write about their psychological and psychiatric experiences. One application of this habit is to help you to recognize the repetition of symptoms
I keep a mental health diary to help me navigate the symptoms of living with paranoid schizophrenia and as a tool to prevent me from repeating mistakes in my approach to periods of challenging mental
In this blog post, I will briefly discuss my approach to writing about schizophrenia and psychosis, mental health, and family and relationships that culminated in my novel “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia.” As I
The image is a free download by geralt on Pixabay; see this link. Today, October 10, 2023, is World Mental Health Day. World Mental Health Day takes place every year on October 10. This year’s
If you are listening to my Podcast: “Schizophrenia As I Live It, Part 1,” which accompanies my novel “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia,” then I have some news for you! First of all, my
Next week, I will be interviewed on a Podcast called “The Ikonic Podcast” put out by The Ikon Institute Of Australia. I will let you know when this interview is live. What is the Ikon
One of the powerful tools I have developed to help me live with paranoid schizophrenia is establishing a routine. I have a daily routine, a weekly routine, and a monthly routine. In addition, there are
When struggling with severe mental illnesses or brain disorders, such as schizophrenia, there are times when our symptoms may not be under control and thereby become evident to some of the people we come across
In the image, you will see a quotation from the Kindle version of my book “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia” by Diana Dirkby. It describes the moment that the narrator character of the novel,
The words “psychosis” and “psychotic” feed into the stigma of mental illness, especially against schizophrenia. This stigma is due in no small part to popular media, be it books, TV thrillers, or suspense movies, where
Last time, I talked about psychosis and the stigma attached to the word “psychosis.” I explained the devastating effect on the mental health consumer experiencing psychosis of stigma from family members or friends once these
The symptoms of schizophrenia can bring with them an overload of the senses and an inability to filter that overload. They can bring hallucinations in that you hear and see things that aren’t there, or
If you are experiencing a psychotic episode due to paranoid schizophrenia, it is a busy time. The symptoms that cause you to lose touch with reality crowd in, all begging for your attention. You have
This blog post introduces my forthcoming novel: “3 Kidnapped, 3 Siblings, 3 Furies,” to be published by amazon.com. I use the horror genre to tackle sibling abuse in this new novel, with the Three Furies
Living with schizophrenia isn’t a journey walked alone, and the schizophrenia podcast recorded by Bek La, Star Royal, and Monika Caesar for the Ikon Institute in Australia, “Schizophrenia and the Self: Living Beyond Diagnosis,” is
Living with a mental health condition like Paranoid Schizophrenia can feel like navigating through a relentless storm. Worry overload can be a schizophrenia stress trigger, meaning that schizophrenia and stress are bad bedfellows. In this
This Blog post accompanies my Podcast episode “A mental illness does not define you, a theme of my thriller horror novel,” of my Podcast “Schizophrenia As I Live It, Parts 1&2.” Exploring the intricate dance
This Blog Post accompanies the Episode: “Unveiling Unexpected Allies in the Fight Against Schizophrenia Stigma” of my Podcast “Schizophrenia As I Live It,” available on this website and most podcast platforms, like Apple Podcasts. The
This Blog post accompanies the Episode: “Harnessing Harmony: Prioritizing at a Stressful Time” of my Podcast “Schizophrenia As I Live It.” Managing stress is a universal struggle in a world that moves at breakneck speed.
This blog post accompanies the episode “A Voyage To Wellness” of my podcast, Schizophrenia As I Live It. The podcast is available on many platforms, like Apple Podcasts and on the podcast page of this
This Blog accompanies the episode “A Schizophrenic’s Guide To Rising Above The Blues” of my podcast “Schizophrenia As I Live It” by Dianan Dirkby. Navigating the choppy waters of mental health, for example, when dealing
This Blog Post is associated with the Episode “Navigating the Tightrope of Mental and Physical Health in Schizophrenia” of my podcast “Schizophrenia As I Live It.” Living with schizophrenia is often described as a balancing
Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May in the United States since 1949. It is celebrated through media, local events, and film screenings. Mental Health America started Mental Health Awareness Month in 1949.
The image is a free download by ha11ok and is featured on pixabay.com. The following blog post accompanies the episode “The Gray Area Of Stigma” of my Podcast series “Schizophrenia As I Live It.” Navigating
Today, I will discuss how I struggle with coincidence due to my paranoid schizophrenia. Often, as part of a paranoid episode, a train of thought can start with an understandable and realistic reaction. However, it
The image is a free download by johnhain on pixabay.com Today, I wanted to write again about the two-way street of stigma. The stigma of mental illness, especially schizophrenia, is an undeniable destructive force in
The image is a free download by geralt on pixabay.com This Blog is about schizophrenia and identity, what could be called schizophrenia identity disorder. However, one should contrast schizophrenia with a dissociative identity disorder as
The image is courtesy of amazon.com This week, my fiction novel The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia, achieved Best Seller status on Amazon.com. To celebrate the event, Amazon.com sent me several photos, and I chose
I am a fiction writer living with paranoid schizophrenia. There is a lack of written material, fiction and non-fiction, by mental health consumers and their caregivers, about their experiences, goals, and loves. If you are
You are not alone as a mental health consumer living with schizophrenia! In the USA alone, about 2.8 million adults aged 18 or older live with this brain disorder. In Australia, 64,000 people aged 18-64
Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that is often shrouded in misunderstanding and fear. However, Diana Dirkby’s “The Overlife” cuts through this veil, offering a raw and honest portrayal of life lived in its shadow.
Are you looking for a read that will blow your mind? Look no further because you are reading the right post! Diana Dirkby’s “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” isn’t your typical mystery book. It
Schizophrenia can be devastating, and who can interpret it better than Diana Dirkby? “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” by Diana Dirkby isn’t a book you simply pick up and read. It’s an intimate world—a
I am a fiction writer with schizophrenia. Today, I want to discuss the advantages of daily routines for writing and schizophrenia. The renowned fiction writer Walter Mosley teaches Fiction and Storytelling in his MasterClass app
Hello! If you’re new to this Blog, my name is Diana Dirkby. I live with paranoid schizophrenia, CPTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Syndrome), and PTSD (Post Traumatic Syndrome). Today, I will focus on schizophrenia and talk
Hello! Today, I want to talk about living with paranoid schizophrenia and CPTSD. Living with schizophrenia, as did my mother, inspired me to write my novel “The Overlife: A Tale Of Schizophrenia.” Trauma from my
Trigger Warning: this Blog post features the topic of sibling abuse. For an excellent source on the topic of child abuse, especially child sexual abuse and safe parenting see the website: https://parentingsafechildren.com/. For more recommendations,
Today, we’ll explore ageism in mental health and challenge its stigma. Specifically, ageism means age-based discrimination in mental health. For example, it includes stigma against older adults. By older adults, I refer to those over
This Blog Is In Two Parts: A chaotic poet and a wise writer. (i) I begin with a poem by the famous Australian poet Roland Robinson, 1912-1992. He is the first half of a chaotic
I live with paranoid schizophrenia, so you may wonder how I earned a living doing research in and teaching mathematics in universities for many years before retiring to be a fiction writer. This leads to
When The Police Came To My Home. I live with paranoid schizophrenia. You may ask, “What Is That?” There are as many answers as people living with schizophrenia. Yet, no matter how often you explain
I am happy to announce that my new Podcast, whose full title is “Fractured Ink: Writing in Life’s Chaos,” is live. The Podcast will have an audio version and a video version. “Fractured Ink” is
In this post, I want to share three extracts from each of my two published novels. You’ll recall that these novels are “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” (https://www.amazon.com/dp/191685219X), whose title I’ll abbreviate to “The
Today, I want to announce that my Podcast, “Schizophrenia As I Live It,” will have two more episodes: today’s and a final one at a future date yet to be determined. The wait won’t be
April 1, 2025 (#WearTealDay) If you are following this Blog, you will know that I have published a book, “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies,” about three types of sibling abuse: emotional, physical, and sexual.
Blog 03/27/2025 “Tell me a story.” I, Diana Dirkby, have often said that a mental health consumer is not defined by their mental illness. The proof is that I have been plagued for many months
Imagine that your child has been kidnapped. How far would you go to save your child? Would you follow the rules of the captor, even if those rules made no sense? Or would you take
One. two, three—three missing teenagers. Three grieving families. Three cryptic punishments. Diana Dirkby’s latest book, Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies, is set to transform your ordinary day into a chilling and horrifying nightmare. It
What if your hometown suddenly became the setting for an unthinkable horror? In the fall of 2010, Vrayboro, Texas, was just another small town. It was nestled deep in the Piney Woods. Families knew one
Imagine one morning you woke up to realize the peace has been shattered. What if you discover that your beloved teenager, who comes home every day from school, did not make it through the house?
While some books just provide a good reading experience and entertain, some books keep you on the edge. These are the books that consume you, leaving you questioning every turn, every revelation, and every motive
Throughout history, myths have served as cautionary tales, moral lessons, and explanations for the unexplained and the profound. But what happens when these ancient legends come alive in the modern world? The result will be
The disappearances in Vrayboro in “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” are baffling, leaving residents and law enforcement searching for answers. In the midst of this unsettling situation, Isabel Morse, a resident and expert in
The town of Vrayboro, nestled in the dense woodlands of “Texas in the novel, Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” was known for its tight-knit community and peaceful environment But when there comes a strange
Vrayboro might seem like a quaint town nestled in the Piney Woods of eastern Texas—a community with charm and tranquility. But that peace was soon shattered on a fateful day in the fall of 201.
You are missing out big if you are not reading these two gems! Whether you prefer a thought-provoking book or an exciting, suspenseful story, the right book can make your time more enjoyable—a moment that
Believe it or not, sibling relationships are often a sweet temptation and shaped with love and care. However, in some cases, it can be complicated and shaped by rivalry, hatred, and jealousy. In Three Kidnapped,
Honestly, very few of us know the reality of schizophrenia. And those who lived it, like Diana Dirkby, know the stigma and fear. Due to media misrepresentation and lack of awareness, we are often unaware
Are you someone who is into books that have more to discover through every turning page of the book? If yes, then you need to dive into Diana Dirkby’s novel, “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three
Diana Dirkby’s novel, “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies,” captures the tension of a small-town crisis, highlighting the interplay between law enforcement and the community when faced with the unthinkable. The disappearances of three teenagers—Sebastian
Imagine being eight years old and tasked with responsibilities far beyond your years. You are not just helping with homework or tidying up your room—you are managing your mother’s paranoid schizophrenia while navigating your father’s
On December 16, 2024, I received an email informing me that I had won a 2024 International Impact Book Award for my book “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia” by Diana Dirkby. You’ll recall that
Big News: My new book, “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies,” by Diana Dirkby, is now published as a Kindle book. It’s a steal at $4.99 (and $0.00 with enough credits.) The paperback is also
Today, I wanted to discuss the solitude many people living with schizophrenia feel tempted by. I am one such person. These days, solitude means just me and my spouse. My love for my spouse and
With November approaching Thanksgiving, it is almost time for us to anticipate the best time of the year. Yes, you guessed it right. We are talking about Christmas! The time when you can enjoy the
Living with a mental condition is not that easy. From mental stigma to anxiety trauma and challenges—there is so much to ask for! Diana Dirkby’s “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” offers a poignant and
Have you ever heard of Vrayboro, a small town nestled in the dense woodlands of Piney Woods, Texas? Perhaps the town is not that peaceful anymore. It all begins in the fall of 2010. With
Justice, punishment, and resilience. While all of these subjects are different, they deeply discuss fundamental human experiences. Diana Dirkby’s novels “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” and “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” intertwine these
Do you crave for a unique and mind-boggling narrative? Perhaps a book that will keep you glued till the very end? A story that will chill your blood? In that case, Diana Dirkby’s upcoming second
Because of its complex nature, only some books have targeted mental health issues like Schizophrenia! “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia“ by Diana Dirkby, in this context, is no different. Presenting a raw and authentic
Living with a mental health condition like Paranoid Schizophrenia can feel like trying to steer through a storm without a clear map!The stress can be intense, overwhelming, and potentially destabilizing. In my latest podcast episode,
With “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” Schizophrenia is often misunderstood and misrepresented! But this mental toll can lead individuals and their families to stigma. Diana Dirkby’s novel “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” tackles
Set against the suspenseful backdrop of a kidnapping in the fictional town of Vrayboro, my new book, “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies,” takes readers on a terrifying journey into the complexities of sibling relationships.
A Look Into “The Overlife” A fictitious yet realistic look into schizophrenia! Despite the abundance of books, articles, and publications on schizophrenia, many people continue to live in a bubble and fail to comprehend the
A Peek At “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” The best thriller in town! There are many mind-bending stories in town, but nothing makes a significant impact like “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” by
What will happen when three teenagers—Sebastian Ward, Mary Bell, and Fred McCarthy go missing unexpectedly? Families are left in turmoil, authorities scramble for answers, and rumors spiral out of control. In Diana Dirkby’s gripping psychological
Every new day offers a world of possibilities and untapped potential-which makes it a perfect time to count on new and promising resolutions. However, we often find ourselves confused, feeling tangled within a web of
Living with schizophrenia is a nightmare and can be a daunting and isolating experience for both the individual and their loved ones! The complexities of this mental illness often lead to feelings of helplessness and
Schizophrenia is a serious and complex mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. People with schizophrenia may seem like they have lost touch with reality. It usually involves delusions (false beliefs),
Everyone wants to have a healthy, happy, and beautiful life. But we often take a stand for it! Just when our lives get stuck, frustrated, slowed, boring, dull, and stressful, we tend to turn to
The Most Notorious Kidnappings To Date Imagine living happily, cherishing moments of joy and fun with your family, when suddenly one of your loved ones seems nowhere to be found. Maybe they got vanished without
Have you ever read a book so captivating that you won’t be able to put it down? Perhaps a mystery, a thriller, or a touching read where the coronary heart pounding chases or the emotional
schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition. It affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, it is frequently misrepresented or oversimplified. Diana Dirkby’s novel, The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia, offers
Diana Dirkby’s Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies is a remarkable story that melds suspense, horror, and mythology into a riveting and ever-chilling story. With enriched storytelling and an eerie atmosphere, this book makes it
Weekends are precious — a time when we can escape the daily grind and recharge. But we often find ourselves caught up in a whirlwind of mundane tasks that make our weekends more boring than
Are you someone seeking a captivating escape from the ordinary? Do you relish stories that delve into the complexities of the human experience, challenging your perspectives and leaving a lasting impact? If so, then prepare
Luckily, we have plenty of days throughout the year—-365—which makes each day a perfect opportunity to reflect, recharge, and change towards betterment. However, with the increasing chaos, responsibility, and digital detox, we often find ourselves
Attention readers, this is your chance to read something exceptional with a gripping yet exciting storyline that will keep you glued to your seats. Yes, you guessed it right—we are talking about thriller books! A
Luckily, we have plenty of days throughout the year—-365—which makes each day a perfect opportunity to reflect, recharge, and change towards betterment. However, with the increasing chaos, responsibility, and digital detox, we often find ourselves
Frustration can sometimes be confused with anger or anxiety. However, it is a similar type of emotional reaction to stress. It is common to have this feeling when you encounter daily stressors at home, at
In today’s fast-paced world, dominated by screens and constant information streams, curling up with a good book does not seem to be a nice idea—right? But the truth is the benefits of reading books extend
You might have heard the word schizophrenia, but let me tell you that this is much more than that. In its simplest forms, schizophrenia is a serious mental illness or disorder that affects how a
If you think that it is easy to deal with schizophrenia, think again! Because Diana Dirkby’s poignant novel, “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia,” explores its bitter reality. Through the eyes of Sarah, a character
Paula Tretkoff is writing under the pseudonym Diana Dirkby, has crafted two riveting novels that bound by a profound and compelling theme: schizophrenia. In both The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia and Three Kidnapped, Three
Why “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” Will Leave You Breathless There are a lot of stories that offer both entertainment and thrill—narratives that will run a chill down your spine—or make your blood cold.
“Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” — A Trio Of Deception And Evil Have you ever read a story so chilling that it will chill your blood? Perhaps a story that will make you think
Diving Deeper into “The Over life” Diana Dirkby’s “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” is more than just a book. It is an intimate exploration of a family’s journey through the complex web of mental
Two Novels—One Connection “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” and “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies.” In a world riddled with stigma, misunderstanding, and chaos, it can be difficult to find time to unwind and
Diana Dirkby takes us on a captivating journey through contrasting realities in her latest releases, “The Overlife” and “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies.” Both novels delve into the darker aspects of the human experience,
To be honest, there’s something unsettling about idyllic towns. The picture-perfect facade often hides a dark undercurrent, a secret waiting to be unearthed. Diana Dirkby masterfully exploits this unsettling truth in “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings,
Diana Dirkby’s “The Overlife” isn’t a book you simply read; it’s an experience you inhabit. It’s a raw and unflinching portrayal of life lived in the shadow of schizophrenia – not just one life, but
In Diana Dirkby’s poignant novel, “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia,” Sarah emerges as a beacon of hope for countless individuals living with schizophrenia. Her character is a testament to the human spirit’s incredible resilience
What if you could journey into the heart of a family grappling with mental illness, experiencing their triumphs and struggles firsthand? What if you could be transported to a seemingly idyllic town where darkness lurks
You might have heard many chilling stories or seen many horror motives that will shock you to the core, but Diana Dirkby’s “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” is unlike any other—a novel that will
Setting firm boundaries is essential when living with a mental illness or brain disorder. If by over-stepping them, you feel stress, then that can be a harmful trigger for you. It’s quite OK to say
There are a lot of good books out there for people who want to understand schizophrenia. An example is Surviving Schizophrenia, 7th Edition: A Family Manual, by E. Fuller Torrey. It’s a non-fiction book available
If someone has trouble understanding you because you live with a mental illness, that is not a stigma if they research what it means to live with it in good faith. Most people exercising stigma
When struggling with a bad time for your mental health or your brain disorder, you can lose the desire to do what you enjoy. At those times, it’s as if a closed door separates me
May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the USA. It’s an excellent time to reach out to mental health advocacy groups to see how you can be involved and supported by them. For example, NAMI
Paranoia, a term misunderstood by and scary to many, is, for someone like me living with paranoid schizophrenia, a lot of hard work. What is it? The explanation takes more than a blog post, so
Today I am copying the Blog post from my Blog on my dianadirkby.com site, because music is so important to me. Here goes: “There was always classical music in our home when I was growing
In an attempt to show that a mental illness or brain disorder need not stop you from doing anything you like, mental health advocacy groups often talk about highly successful people who are also mental
We all have goals for the day, week, or month ahead. Still, those with a brain disorder or a mental illness need to recognize that comparing themselves to others or an unrealistic version of themselves
I take medication to help control the symptoms of my schizophrenia, and it’s a suitable medication for me. However, it was a long road with a lot of support to reach where I am now.
When a mental health consumer is in crisis, sometimes others cannot understand that they can’t simply “snap out of it” and jump from their world into another. Typically, once your mental health crisis is evident
There are mental advocacy organizations that provide online and in-person support groups. For example, NAMI (National Alliance On Mental Illness) provides support groups across the USA that are moderated by trained individuals. These support groups
Most of you have probably been admonished for saying something politically incorrect without feeling it’s a big deal. There are so many ways to be labeled politically incorrect that the growing list of what we
Unfortunately, some family members and close friends can abandon the mental health consumer during a mental health crisis. Such people may offer nothing more than a request that the mental health consumer keeps away from
It’s often overlooked that the caregivers of mental health consumers also need support. They have to negotiate caring for someone who needs a lot of understanding, time spent with them, and the stigma against mental
Today is Mother’s Day! Like me, my mother lived with schizophrenia. She was a wonderful mother despite this brain disorder, especially until we were pre-teens when her schizophrenia worsened. Despite this disability, she could not
To quote from the website https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia of the American Psychiatric Association, schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder that affects less than one percent of the U.S. population. When schizophrenia is active, symptoms can include delusions,
I have found that a pet can be a tremendous support when I feel alone and stressed. Their love is unconditional; all they ask is love and reasonable care in return. You may be able
A trigger automatically upsets or traumatizes a mental health consumer due to past trauma or their current mental health symptoms. Rather than the word “trigger,” which evokes “guns,” I prefer to use the expression “lights
It’s often challenging to fight the symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia and find pleasure in engaging with others. That can drive you to remain in the confines of your home rather than venture outdoors. This gut
In an earlier post, I encouraged you to write about your experiences with mental illnesses and brain disorders, whether as a mental health consumer or someone who cares about one. A different project is to
Today, I uploaded the first Chapter of my Podcast: “Schizophrenia As I Live It.” You can find it in the Podcast section of this website https://overliveschizophrenia.com. In this Podcast, I will talk about my experiences
The stigma of mental illnesses or brain disorders can make mental health consumers hard on themselves as they seek to incorporate the prejudice exercised against them. Taking care of someone else’s ignorance is not your
On days when I struggle to free my mind from paranoid loops or obsessive thoughts going nowhere, I find that stopping to do a guided meditation session helps. I use a meditation app on my
As someone who has endured multiple psychotic breaks due to living with schizophrenia, I know that you cannot always “return to normal” if that means going back to where you were before a psychotic break.
May 24 is World Schizophrenia Day, also called World Schizophrenia Awareness Day. I display an image of a rhinoceros and her calf because animals are such a source of inspiration and tranquility to me when
I once confided in a friend about problems I was having with my family. They advised: “Think about a worse problem for a while, then return to your problem. You may find you aren’t quite
I live with paranoid schizophrenia, as did my mother. My mother’s condition worsened due to her inability to admit she had psychiatric problems and the failure of her doctors to handle her denial. She became
When describing schizophrenia, experts usually put “not knowing what is real” near the top of the significant symptoms. Undoubtedly, someone undergoing a relapse of schizophrenia often misinterprets what their senses tell them and can harbor
I am recording a Podcast entitled “Schizophrenia As I Live It” to accompany my forthcoming book “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia.” So far, I have posted three chapters on the website for that book:
When living with a mental illness or brain disorder, you can be so relieved when you are doing better that you can forget, or prefer to ignore, that you may struggle with your mental health
Today’s blog gives tips on creating a schedule to suit your mental health. Everyone’s mental health needs are unique, so finding a program that prioritizes self-care and promotes positive mental health may require some work.
In my book “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia,” I write about the substantial benefits of the correct antipsychotic medication from a competent psychiatrist. We often see phrases like “With the appropriate medication and therapy,
Here are some tips on choosing a suitable psychiatrist for paranoid schizophrenia. Most of these tips can apply to other mental illnesses: Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a psychiatrist for paranoid
Here are some tips on how to find a good psychologist for paranoid schizophrenia. They apply equally well as tips for any mental health consumer: When you are interviewing potential psychologists, there are a few
Socializing when you are paranoid can be challenging, but it is possible. Here are some tips: Here are some additional tips that may be helpful: Remember, you are not alone. Many people, even if they
The image above is an excellent summary of psychiatry versus psychology and where they meet. In mathematics, such diagrams are common in set theory and are called Venn diagrams. The light aqua areas pertain to
Once someone knows you live with a mental illness or brain disorder, that person may put you permanently under their microscope. It happens too often. You may therefore behave in a most rigid and conformist
In real life, in movies, and TV shows, you often hear people say, “The situation is so schizophrenic. I have several choices, all of which seem good to me.” More darkly, you may hear, from
It can be challenging to motivate yourself to exercise when you struggle with your mental health. On paper, the best thing to do would be to join a group of people practicing some exercise you
Some well-known insightful movies have been made about someone living with a mental illness. Examples are: “The Three Faces Of Eve (1957),” “A Beautiful Mind (2001),” and “Silver Linings Playbook (2012).” However, these movies are
What is Anosognosia? It is a Greek term meaning “to not know a disease.” NAMI (National Alliance On Mental Illness) has some information on its website about Anosognosia: click here to see it. From that
A lot of the stigma surrounding mental illness, particularly paranoid schizophrenia, is founded on a reaction of fear when someone either learns you are a mental health consumer or sees you behaving abnormally when you
The use of “people first” language in the context of political correctness when speaking about mental health is not as widespread or even acknowledged as it needs to be. For example, “Rhys is schizophrenic” is
Several Blog posts ago, we talked about Anosognosia. Today, we’ll talk about the LEAP method and schizophrenia, a mainstream, proven approach to helping people overcome anosognosia and accept treatment for their mental illness or brain
In this blog post, we will compare the meaning of “Overlife” in my book “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia” and the meaning of the same word among scholars of Ancient Egypt or Egyptologists. We
One of the often-quoted symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia is a loss of touch with reality. However, it is important to stress that the person living with schizophrenia and currently struggling with its symptoms still perceives
There are various ways that stigma against someone living with paranoid schizophrenia can arise. Many people are scared of the diagnosis itself. The words “paranoid schizophrenia” evoke fear in a person who often does not
A common symptom of schizophrenia is auditory hallucinations. Auditory hallucinations happen when you hear voices or noises that aren’t there. The sounds you hear may seem real, but they’re not. It’s essential to include noises
A common symptom of schizophrenia is visual hallucinations. Visual hallucinations happen when you see people or objects that aren’t there or when your visual perception of people and things that are real is distorted or
Ageism, or agism, is discrimination against individuals or groups based on age. The term was coined in 1969 by Robert Neil Butler to describe discrimination against seniors. Butler defined “ageism” as a combination of three
In the first post for this blog, I encouraged mental health consumers to write about their psychological and psychiatric experiences. One application of this habit is to help you to recognize the repetition of symptoms
I keep a mental health diary to help me navigate the symptoms of living with paranoid schizophrenia and as a tool to prevent me from repeating mistakes in my approach to periods of challenging mental
In this blog post, I will briefly discuss my approach to writing about schizophrenia and psychosis, mental health, and family and relationships that culminated in my novel “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia.” As I
The image is a free download by geralt on Pixabay; see this link. Today, October 10, 2023, is World Mental Health Day. World Mental Health Day takes place every year on October 10. This year’s
If you are listening to my Podcast: “Schizophrenia As I Live It, Part 1,” which accompanies my novel “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia,” then I have some news for you! First of all, my
Next week, I will be interviewed on a Podcast called “The Ikonic Podcast” put out by The Ikon Institute Of Australia. I will let you know when this interview is live. What is the Ikon
One of the powerful tools I have developed to help me live with paranoid schizophrenia is establishing a routine. I have a daily routine, a weekly routine, and a monthly routine. In addition, there are
When struggling with severe mental illnesses or brain disorders, such as schizophrenia, there are times when our symptoms may not be under control and thereby become evident to some of the people we come across
In the image, you will see a quotation from the Kindle version of my book “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia” by Diana Dirkby. It describes the moment that the narrator character of the novel,
The words “psychosis” and “psychotic” feed into the stigma of mental illness, especially against schizophrenia. This stigma is due in no small part to popular media, be it books, TV thrillers, or suspense movies, where
Last time, I talked about psychosis and the stigma attached to the word “psychosis.” I explained the devastating effect on the mental health consumer experiencing psychosis of stigma from family members or friends once these
The symptoms of schizophrenia can bring with them an overload of the senses and an inability to filter that overload. They can bring hallucinations in that you hear and see things that aren’t there, or
If you are experiencing a psychotic episode due to paranoid schizophrenia, it is a busy time. The symptoms that cause you to lose touch with reality crowd in, all begging for your attention. You have
This blog post introduces my forthcoming novel: “3 Kidnapped, 3 Siblings, 3 Furies,” to be published by amazon.com. I use the horror genre to tackle sibling abuse in this new novel, with the Three Furies
Living with schizophrenia isn’t a journey walked alone, and the schizophrenia podcast recorded by Bek La, Star Royal, and Monika Caesar for the Ikon Institute in Australia, “Schizophrenia and the Self: Living Beyond Diagnosis,” is
Living with a mental health condition like Paranoid Schizophrenia can feel like navigating through a relentless storm. Worry overload can be a schizophrenia stress trigger, meaning that schizophrenia and stress are bad bedfellows. In this
This Blog post accompanies my Podcast episode “A mental illness does not define you, a theme of my thriller horror novel,” of my Podcast “Schizophrenia As I Live It, Parts 1&2.” Exploring the intricate dance
This Blog Post accompanies the Episode: “Unveiling Unexpected Allies in the Fight Against Schizophrenia Stigma” of my Podcast “Schizophrenia As I Live It,” available on this website and most podcast platforms, like Apple Podcasts. The
This Blog post accompanies the Episode: “Harnessing Harmony: Prioritizing at a Stressful Time” of my Podcast “Schizophrenia As I Live It.” Managing stress is a universal struggle in a world that moves at breakneck speed.
This blog post accompanies the episode “A Voyage To Wellness” of my podcast, Schizophrenia As I Live It. The podcast is available on many platforms, like Apple Podcasts and on the podcast page of this
This Blog accompanies the episode “A Schizophrenic’s Guide To Rising Above The Blues” of my podcast “Schizophrenia As I Live It” by Dianan Dirkby. Navigating the choppy waters of mental health, for example, when dealing
This Blog Post is associated with the Episode “Navigating the Tightrope of Mental and Physical Health in Schizophrenia” of my podcast “Schizophrenia As I Live It.” Living with schizophrenia is often described as a balancing
Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May in the United States since 1949. It is celebrated through media, local events, and film screenings. Mental Health America started Mental Health Awareness Month in 1949.
The image is a free download by ha11ok and is featured on pixabay.com. The following blog post accompanies the episode “The Gray Area Of Stigma” of my Podcast series “Schizophrenia As I Live It.” Navigating
Today, I will discuss how I struggle with coincidence due to my paranoid schizophrenia. Often, as part of a paranoid episode, a train of thought can start with an understandable and realistic reaction. However, it
The image is a free download by johnhain on pixabay.com Today, I wanted to write again about the two-way street of stigma. The stigma of mental illness, especially schizophrenia, is an undeniable destructive force in
The image is a free download by geralt on pixabay.com This Blog is about schizophrenia and identity, what could be called schizophrenia identity disorder. However, one should contrast schizophrenia with a dissociative identity disorder as
The image is courtesy of amazon.com This week, my fiction novel The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia, achieved Best Seller status on Amazon.com. To celebrate the event, Amazon.com sent me several photos, and I chose
I am a fiction writer living with paranoid schizophrenia. There is a lack of written material, fiction and non-fiction, by mental health consumers and their caregivers, about their experiences, goals, and loves. If you are
You are not alone as a mental health consumer living with schizophrenia! In the USA alone, about 2.8 million adults aged 18 or older live with this brain disorder. In Australia, 64,000 people aged 18-64
Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that is often shrouded in misunderstanding and fear. However, Diana Dirkby’s “The Overlife” cuts through this veil, offering a raw and honest portrayal of life lived in its shadow.
Are you looking for a read that will blow your mind? Look no further because you are reading the right post! Diana Dirkby’s “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies” isn’t your typical mystery book. It
Schizophrenia can be devastating, and who can interpret it better than Diana Dirkby? “The Overlife: A Tale of Schizophrenia” by Diana Dirkby isn’t a book you simply pick up and read. It’s an intimate world—a
I am a fiction writer with schizophrenia. Today, I want to discuss the advantages of daily routines for writing and schizophrenia. The renowned fiction writer
Hello! If you’re new to this Blog, my name is Diana Dirkby. I live with paranoid schizophrenia, CPTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Syndrome), and PTSD (Post
Hello! Today, I want to talk about living with paranoid schizophrenia and CPTSD. Living with schizophrenia, as did my mother, inspired me to write my
Trigger Warning: this Blog post features the topic of sibling abuse. For an excellent source on the topic of child abuse, especially child sexual abuse
Today, we’ll explore ageism in mental health and challenge its stigma. Specifically, ageism means age-based discrimination in mental health. For example, it includes stigma against
This Blog Is In Two Parts: A chaotic poet and a wise writer. (i) I begin with a poem by the famous Australian poet Roland
