Anosognosia in Schizophrenia: Understanding ‘A Lack of Insight’ with Guest Host Rachel Star Withers

Imagine everyone around you — family, friends, even your doctors — insisting you have a serious mental illness, yet you’re certain they’re wrong. This isn’t denial — it’s a symptom called anosognosia, a lack of awareness that can make treatment nearly impossible. In this episode, guest host Rachel Star Withers, who lives with schizophrenia, speaks with Dr. Xavier Amador, Founder and President of the LEAP Institute and author of the bestseller “I Am Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help!” Together, they unpack what anosognosia is, why it prevents so many people from accepting help, and how loved ones can build trust and connection instead of conflict. Dr. Amador has trained tens of thousands of professionals and families in his LEAP method — Listen, Empathize, Agree, Partner — a practical, compassionate approach that helps bridge the gap between awareness and recovery. Please Note: Our regular host, Gabe Howard, will be back next week! “I refuse to get any help because this is not a diagnosis. I don't need this medication. This medication is bad for me. They really don't understand that they have an illness. We need to help people who have anosognosia... They're being pushed through the cracks. They're ending up homeless. They're ending up in our criminal justice system. They're ending up in back bedrooms alone, not talking to family. I mean, they deserve us, us to be attending to this problem.” ~​​Dr. Xavier Amador, author of I Am Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help! Our guest, Dr. Xavier Amador, Founder and President of the LEAP Institute, is a world-renowned clinical psychologist, forensic expert, and author of 9 books, including the bestseller “I Am Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help!” His extensive work, books, and clinical research in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses have been translated into 30 languages. Additionally, he has authored over 130 peer-reviewed scientific papers and has contributed his expertise to over 80 death penalty cases. He is also a family caregiver of two close relatives with schizophrenia and another with bipolar disorder. Dr. Amador has trained tens of thousands of professionals and families on LEAP® (Listen-Empathize-Agree-Partner), a communication approach that creates trusting relationships with people who have serious mental illness and anosognosia. www.leapinstitute.org Our guest host, Rachel Star Withers creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and let others like her know they’re not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written “Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids” and a tool for schizophrenics, “To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal.” Learn more at RachelStarLive.com. Also, you can now check out her kids' mental health comic book line "The Adventures of ____, Vol. I. The Fearless Star, The Unstoppable Light, The Ambitious Focus,” now available on Amazon. The Adventures of series explores what it is like for children struggling with mental health and physical differences, while teaching simple coping techniques. The series helps children understand those around them who are different and empowers them. To listen to the Inside Schizophrenia podcast, please visit the official show page at psychcentral.com/IS or use your favorite podcast player. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com.