In this powerful mental health & addiction recovery story, Kody Green shares how early symptoms of schizophrenia led to meth addiction, incarceration, and ultimately a life-changing diagnosis. Now sober for 10 years, Kody is a nationally recognized recovery coach and mental health advocate.

Explore addiction and mental health treatment options: https://recovery.com

Connect with Kody: https://www.kodygreen.com/, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZfYNa7ygWpc-1bDw4wy5JA, https://www.instagram.com/schizophrenichippie/, https://www.tiktok.com/@schizophrenichippie

Key talking points:
1. Kody was a teen caregiver for his mother, who had undiagnosed schizoaffective disorder.
2. He first experienced symptoms of schizophrenia during his freshman year of college.
3. Fearing institutionalization, he isolated and turned to drugs to cope with hallucinations.
4. Cody dropped out of school and spiraled into active psychosis and meth addiction.
5. His first NA meeting was in jail, where he was incarcerated due to substance use.
6. He reached out for help after release, and his family connected him to fast-track treatment.
7. A schizophrenia diagnosis, antipsychotic meds, and peer support jumpstarted his recovery.
8. He got sober in 2015 and has maintained 10 years of sobriety.
9. Cody built a platform as the “Schizophrenic Hippie” to combat stigma and share hope.
10. He now speaks nationally, sits on the NAMI board, and helps others access recovery.

00:00 First Encounter with AA/NA in Jail

00:09 Worst Jail Meals

00:34 Introduction to Cody Green

01:12 Cody's Wisconsin Roots

02:42 Cody's Childhood and Mother's Mental Health

07:04 Cody's Own Mental Health Struggles Begin

08:36 College and Onset of Schizophrenia

09:47 Addiction and Incarceration

16:59 Life in Jail and Seeking Help

18:57 Diagnosis and Recovery

23:58 Rebuilding Life and Advocacy

25:51 Reflecting on Sobriety and Recovery

26:29 The Power of Peer Support

28:19 Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health

29:57 Challenges of Social Media Advocacy

30:39 Living with Schizophrenia

32:46 The Importance of Sharing Stories

35:08 Turning Points in Sobriety

36:47 The Role of Peer Support in Recovery

40:49 From TikTok to National Advocacy

48:12 Advocacy and Legislative Efforts

49:45 Messages of Hope and Conclusion

#addiction #schizophrenia
#addictionrecovery #mentalhealthawareness