A Schitzo Life - Elijah Payne

What happens when the world you see isn't the world others live in? You get Elijah Pay—a resilient soul who’s faced the terrifying depths of psychosis, survived near-death hallucinations, and emerged with compassion for those society often overlooks. In this deeply vulnerable episode of Tulsa Talks, Elijah opens up about his diagnosis with schizoaffective bipolar disorder, his journey through drug use, his experiences in mental hospitals, and what it’s like to live with vivid, terrifying hallucinations—seeing torture, death, and delusions so real they left permanent marks. But more than that, Elijah shares hope—hope found in medication, exercise, therapy, online communities, and self-awareness. He reminds us that understanding, not fear, is what builds bridges between mental illness and healing. His raw, unfiltered story reflects the 10 Stages of Life: Humility – Admitting addiction, brokenness, and needing help. Redemption – Choosing recovery, support groups, and new direction. Power – Taking control through medication, therapy, and honest conversation. Being – Learning to accept himself and his mind, exactly as he is. Mercy – Extending empathy to those on the streets and struggling in silence. Abundance – Finding strength in the gym, structure in his days, and clarity through routine. Witness – Sharing his story to help others not feel alone in their mental illness. Sovereignty – Trusting that even in chaos, he’s not forgotten—and his mind has meaning. Reconciliation – Restoring relationships, rebuilding his dignity, and finding new ways to connect. Completion – Realizing his purpose is to help others understand, survive, and heal. 🧠 Want to understand schizophrenia better? Start by listening. 🎙️ Tulsa Talks – Everyday people. Real transformation. Conversations that matter.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tulsa-talks--6590488/support.