005. HEALING WITH HE(ART) - PART II with Renee Schuls-Jacobson

005. HEALING WITH HE(ART) - PART II with Renee Schuls-Jacobson

Michele Waterman continues her heartfelt conversation with Renee Schuls-Jacobson in this episode of the Real Joy Recovery Podcast. Renee, an artist and author of 'Psychiatrized: Waking Up After a Decade of Bad Medicine', opens up about her intense and emotional journey of healing from an iatrogenic injury caused by prescribed benzodiazepines for insomnia. This episode dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of Renee's eight-year recovery from discontinuation syndrome, a condition that emerged after following her doctor's orders.

The discussion doesn't shy away from tough topics, including adverse childhood experiences like sexual assault and birth trauma, which contributed to Renee's struggles. However, the focus remains on the incredible power of art therapy in her recovery. What started as a simple distraction soon became a vital tool for processing her pain and eventually blossomed into a passionate career.

Michele and Renee also explore the significance of lifestyle medicine, the importance of believing survivors, and the role of community support in healing. They delve into neuroplasticity and how dedicating oneself to self-devotion can be more impactful than mere self-care. This episode offers a beacon of hope and practical insights for anyone navigating their own healing journey. Tune in to hear a powerful story of resilience and the transformative power of art.