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Psychosis, Schizophrenia, or Autoimmune Brain Inflammation—New Hope for Some

Psychosis, Schizophrenia, or Autoimmune Brain Inflammation—New Hope for Some

One of the most distressing things a person can go through is a break in their touch with reality—psychosis—whether in themselves or in a loved one. Psychosis is a term for no longer being able to tell what is real from what is not. The various types of psychotic symptoms include:

  • Hallucinations: These are disturbances in perception—perceiving sensory signals that are not coming from the world around us. The most common is auditory hallucination, hearing things without actual sound waves impacting the ear drums, but people can also see, smell, feel, and taste things that are not coming from their environment.
  • Delusions: These are fixed false beliefs—believing things that are objectively contrary to reality; delusional beliefs are not amenable to being changed with evidence and facts.
  • Disorganization of thought and speech: The inability to maintain a clear train of thought; jumping from topic to topic in a nonsensical way.
  • Disorganization of behavior: Gross irrational and chaotic behavior.
  • Catatonia: A severe and abnormal response to people and the environment, such as mutism, echoing sounds repeatedly, copying other’s movements constantly, rigidly holding positions for long periods of time, failure to respond to environmental stimuli, and other symptoms.
  • Severe loss of normal emotional connection: Severe emotional flatness; loss of motivation, disengagement, and isolation.

It has been long understood that psychotic problems are a result of something going wrong with normal brain function. The only exception are shared delusions, when people come to believe something that is false and are resistant to evidence that would expose the falsehood. Shared or group delusions come from social and relational pressures and not brain dysfunction. So, delusions can occur from both brain dysfunction and from social and relational pressures and stresses.

Historically, when a person presented with the various symptoms listed above, they were recognized as having a break from reality and diagnosed with psychosis. If the symptoms persisted over time, they were often diagnosed with schizophrenia.

The exact causes of schizophrenia are still poorly understood, but it is believed to have multiple causes related to brain development, structure, and function. Genetics play a role, increasing vulnerability, but genes do not tell the entire story. Intrauterine environment, toxic exposures, infections, nutritional deficiencies, and environmental stressors all impact the developing brain and can alter normal cellular development, support systems, and connectivity and, thereby, contribute to the development of psychosis later in life. The point is that every person diagnosed with schizophrenia does not have the exact same brain problem; they share a cluster of symptoms that are used to diagnose schizophrenia. But it is currently believed that there are many different underlying contributing factors and brain changes that lead to these symptoms.

 

New Discoveries

What is interesting is that recently, a condition has been discovered that shares the symptoms of schizophrenia and historically would have been diagnosed as schizophrenia but, in fact, is an autoimmune inflammation of the brain. In other words, the body has made antibodies that are acting inappropriately upon certain brain receptors (NMDA) and causing the symptoms of psychosis.

Recently I read an article entitled “Is it psychosis, or an autoimmune encephalitis?” in which the differences between psychosis and this brain inflammatory condition were described. This is important and exciting because the presentations of both these conditions are nearly identical while the underlying causes are quite distinct and the treatments are necessarily different, with the autoimmune condition having a higher likelihood of resolution with appropriate treatment.

The symptoms of the autoimmune brain condition are some combination of the symptoms of psychosis listed above. A person with the autoimmune encephalitis may become disorganized, stop going to classes or work, socially isolate, stop attending to personal hygiene, talk to self, accuse people of being against them, believe others are out to get them, may become catatonic and withdrawn and become mute, or posture in strange ways. Their thoughts may be disorganized; they may be animated or agitated. The point is, there is a marked dysfunctional change from their normal behavior that is recognized by family and friends.

Clues that this may be autoimmune rather than schizophrenia include:

  • Quick onset in less than three months. If such changes have occurred gradually over years in a person who was odd, socially withdrawn, and peculiar since childhood, then it is more likely schizophrenia. But if the person experiences a fairly sudden and acute change in function, then the possibility of autoimmune encephalitis must be considered.
  • Recent history of infection, especially viral infection, prior to the onset of the dysfunction is a red flag warranting workup for autoimmune encephalitis. The underlying problem is that something (in this case, the viral infection) triggers the body’s immune system to make antibodies that attack the NMDA receptors in the brain, thereby causing the psychosis. Thus, a history of fever, malaise, headache, nausea, diarrhea, etc., prior to the onset of symptoms is a signal warranting investigation for an autoimmune cause.
  • Seizures within one year of the onset of the psychotic symptoms. These seizures are usually not the full-body seizures with loss of consciousness, but deep brain seizures that cause moments of confusion, staring off into space, or no symptoms at all and only show electrical slowing on an electroencephalogram (EEG). But seizures of any kind during the first year suggests an autoimmune problem.
  • A recent history of cancer or any abnormality of the ovaries suggests autoimmune encephalitis rather than schizophrenia. The cancer or ovarian problem, in this case, trigger the immune system to make the antibodies that attack the NMDA receptors.
  • A prior history of herpes simplex virus (HSV) encephalitis increases the risk of autoimmune encephalitis and, thus, any person presenting with psychosis who has a history of prior HSV encephalitis should be evaluated for an autoimmune cause of their psychosis. Again, the connection is that the prior herpes viral infection triggered the body to make antibodies that are now attacking the brain.
  • Any symptoms suggestive of a neurological problem, such as a stiff neck, severe headache, neck pain, etc., should raise concerns and justify an autoimmune workup.
  • Presenting with short-term memory loss may indicate an autoimmune cause to the new psychosis.
  • Changes and instability in normal vital signs, such as a racing heart, blood pressure that changes rapidly, and light headedness when standing, are indicators of an underlying autoimmune problem.

If someone you know is suffering with such symptoms, please bring up this possibility to their doctor as autoimmune encephalitis presenting as a psychotic disorder is a newly discovered insight and may not be considered by your loved-one’s doctor. The treatment for autoimmune encephalitis is quite different than that for schizophrenia, with a much higher likelihood of a good outcome.

 

 

 

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Testimony 37

Hearing Dr. Jennings’ presentations in person came at a pivotal moment in my spiritual journey that began about nine months ago, when the fault lines inherent in my belief system began to crack under questions that most reasonable people end up asking about God and His nature. These were questions I couldn’t find answers to, and they shook my faith. I was unable let it go any longer and be satisfied. My Christian experience became distant. I was afraid; the fear in me rose like thorns, pushing me away from Jesus. And then someone heard my questions and introduced me to this ministry, and my life has totally changed.

I can tell you that this new, “present truth” message is far grander and life-changing than when I shifted from being an agnostic and then a nominal Christian. It has radically altered my worldview, because it reveals a God that makes sense. It is a revolution. I believe that Dr. Jennings’ message is the final message that must go to the world. If any message could be called “righteousness by faith,” as abused as that term is by the right and the left, this is that message, because Jennings’ biblical message identifies a God who is different, whose character isn’t an impossible contradiction.

I walk this path now without fear. I see people differently, and the Holy Spirit burns in my heart. Many call Dr. Jennings’ message false and compromising, but it isn’t false, because I’ve seen the fruits within my mind and body. It is not compromising, because in this message is the only road to holiness that makes any sense. No longer do I behold a pagan god who is always angry and suspicious. Instead, I behold a God who is freeing and loving, always working for our good, and giving me every reason to love my enemy even to my own death, just as Jesus pleads with us. God is good.

Anthony L., CA, USA

 

Testimony 21

I am absolutly on fire with the message at Come and Reason! I can’t get enough! I’ve read your book, blog, and articles. I’ve listened to your Bible study podcasts, your radio show, and your series – all excellent! It wasn’t until the past couple of years that I have I like I’m becoming “healthy,” with more to share with others than just beasts and commandments! I used to be a Bible worker and preached when the pastors were gone until I had had enough. I didnt realize at the time what the problem was, but i know now… the message wasn’t properly focused. Now my flame is rekindled. All of your little examples are so perfect in explaining something “complicated” and making it easily understood! Now I’m trying to shape it into a life changing evangelistic series! Thank you!

M.T., USA

 

Testimony 9

I really enjoy with you the view of a gracious God. Thank you for sharing the work you are allowing the Lord to do in you.

L., Queensland, Australia

 

Testimony 6

I got the book “Could It Be This Simple?” a few months ago and the reading was wonderful and I was fascinated. I lent the book to a friend at work. She is having a difficult time and the book is helping her to find Jesus and I found this very exciting. She has asked me questions and I can see her life changing.

H. S., Australia

 

Testimony 11

I would love to have a copy of “Healing the Mind” DVDs to have in my therapy office. I enjoy having clients check out materials to enhance their therapy experience. I have sat under Dr. Jennings’ teaching at an American Association of Christian Counselors convention and respect his work greatly.

K.B., LA, USA

 

Testimony 49

I came into the church at 21, but that is as far as it went. I was so confused about what love is. I couldn’t find it in the bible, because I am not a person that can read between the lines. I have no logic. I have read many, many books; trying to figure out the crux of the matter. They were helpful, but something was still missing. I have become very frustrated to the point of crying out to God, “Where can I go?”  I needed some basics.

I found two books, written by Timothy Jennings, MD, to be very helpful. God showed me that I had lived my whole life in fear. I didn’t even see it. Now, I do. God is so good.  I discovered the “The Remedy”  Dr. Jennings new book, “The God-Shaped Heart!” Oh, I was so excited, I purchased them right away.

I can get rid of most of my books, because “The Remedy” brings the Love of God out so clearly, even I can’t miss it. Now, I want to sit and read my Bible. Wow, what a revelation! It is just simply Awesome! I am so grateful to Jehovah Almighty for hearing my prayer for more understanding! I am so encouraged!

Jackie S.

 

Testimony 60

Just watched watched lesson 10 in the 1st quarter 2021 bible study classs on Isaiah. I want to thank you for your intellectual spirituality; it’s not an oxymoron! From the point of view of a teacher I also enjoy seeing how much personal pleasure you clearly take in not just tasting, but feasting on God’s word – it reminds me of Jeremiah not being able to hold it in! It makes me smile that your cup is so full and overflowing that you make it to Tuesday’s lesson (on a good day). It just goes to show the richness of God’s Word.

God bless the Come and Reason Team from our church here in Great Britain.

Andrew H., Great Britain

 

Testimony 55

I was born [into the church], then I left it for many years. 10 years ago, I came back, but I could not take the hypocrisy and the lack of answers to the missing pieces. I struggled, but I did not abandon my commitment to know the truth. God is leading me to the simple understanding of his relevance and I am relearning what the church taught me as a youth… that he loves me, that he has led me to a knowledge of him such as I have never known. He is using Dr. Jennings to connect the dots that are now so apparent and hiding in plain sight!

Dean P., Arlington, TX, USA

 

Testimony 67

I was introduced to Come And Reason by a friend of my mother-in-law, who gave me several CD’s of Dr. Jennings. The clarity of the message and recognition that God’s is a God of love was so clear, advancing beyond Dr. Maxwell’s message. However, grappled with Maxwell saying God used emergency measures for the fallen world. Now after several years of being a regular listener of the Come And Reasoning bible study class and attending Jennings’ meetings in Dallas/Fort Worth, TX, things are becoming clearer for me. Design law versus imposed law has added so much to my personal understanding of theology. This message has really impacted my work in counseling so many people miserable because they are searching for and trusting human governments to create order and peace or believing in a God who says love Me or I will kill you. I am grateful that I have an alternative view to offer my clients that makes sense. I teach a bible study class on a semi-regular basis and I value the materials that Come And Reason so freely offers to aid me in presenting this vital message. Thank you for continuing to provide advancement in our very limited understanding of a Infinite God that is rational and believable.

Dr. Roger D, Arlington, TX, USA

 

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We listen to your bible studies lessons in our class in Montana. You actually were the main reason I decided to get a laptop, so I can go to your site and listen, read, learn, and print the class notes. I am so grateful to learn the correct view of God and his character. Now, to just have others have an interest in knowing, so I can share it with them. Good thoughts your way.

R. N., MT, USA

 

Testimony 40

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Tom W., Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA

 

Testimony 26

Your teachings about our heavenly Father have changed my life. Thank you sooooooo very very much! I know He’s doing some serious healing in my heart and life and I look forward to each new day to learn something new about Him and to just hear you speak about Him. Thank you, forever.

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Testimony 54

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My heart thrills when I listen to your bible study lessons. Literally I have gone from death to life. It is a journey I look forward to every day, as God reveals areas this distortion affects. Praise GOD! I will ever be grateful to God for this ministry and your cooperation with the Spirit!

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Testimony 10

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