Overcoming Maladaptive Daydreaming: What Has and Hasn’t Worked

Although there is no official treatment for Maladaptive Daydreaming, many people have found ways to reduce or even overcome it. Some, like ISMD Board Member Jayne Bigelsen, needed the help of a psychiatrist and medication to get their MD under control. For others, medication did not work at all. Former MDers Kyla Borcherds and Rumzi Yousef completely changed their lives without medication, instead addressing the root causes of their daydreaming, working through therapy, learning new coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and filling their lives with meaningful, real-world activities. Join Jayne, Kyla, and Rumzi for a candid discussion on what has and hasn’t worked in their journeys, and share your own experiences in this interactive session

Speakers: Jayne Bigelsen (ISMD Board Member), Kyla Borcherds (Former MDer), Rumzi Yousef (Former MDer)

     Moderator: Samaa Al Saedi (Student, AUB)

Date: 07/11/2025

Time: 11 AM EST / 4 PM GMT

Online

Jayne Bigelsen is an ISMD Board Member who overcame maladaptive daydreaming with the help of psychiatric support and medication.

Kyla Borcherds is a former maladaptive daydreamer who reduced her MD through therapy, mindfulness, and lifestyle changes.

Rumzi Yousef is a former maladaptive daydreamer who overcame MD by addressing its root causes and building new coping strategies.

Samaa Al Saedi is a Political Studies student at the American University of Beirut and ISMD volunteer, supporting advocacy and community engagement