Schizoaffective disorder is on the spectrum of schizophrenia in that it affects a person’s perception of and grasp on reality. However, this mental health condition also causes mood disorder symptoms like mania and depression. While complex, the right treatment can help people cope with schizoaffective disorder.
It is not entirely clear why some people develop schizoaffective disorder. Research shows that brain chemistry, genetics, and structure of the brain all play a role. Additionally, certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing this condition:
Females also have a higher risk of experiencing schizoaffective disorders when compared to males.
People with this condition typically experience two groupings of symptoms:
Delusional thinking, hallucinations, abnormal behaviours, disordered thinking, and lack of emotional output are all aspects of psychosis.
Mood disorders are characterized by effects like impulsivity, agitation, and high energy (mania), as well as intense sadness, feelings of hopelessness, and low energy (depression).
Some people experience the bipolar type of schizoaffective disorder, which causes symptoms of mania and depression. On the other hand, the depression type only causes depression symptoms.
Prompt treatment of schizoaffective disorder can prevent the following complications:
Many people with this disorder also experience difficulty managing their daily life, which can result in decreased hygiene and failed expectations.
Medication is necessary to manage the effects of psychosis and mood disorders. Antipsychotics address psychosis symptoms, while mood stabilizers and antidepressants control symptoms of mood disorders.
While medications are an essential part of treatment, therapy is also immensely helpful. Along with individual therapy, family therapy is beneficial for helping the loved ones of a person with schizoaffective disorder better understand their condition.
When social and professional life are impacted by schizoaffective disorder, skills training can help. This can entail sessions to facilitate better connections with others, as well as training to prepare a person for gainful employment.