Living with schizoaffective disorder can make life feel unpredictable, with shifts between depression or mania alongside hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking. But with professional help, people with schizoaffective disorder can improve their daily lives and functioning.
What is Schizoaffective Disorder?
Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition that combines symptoms from mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder, with psychotic disorder symptoms like schizophrenia-like hallucinations and delusions. It requires careful diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan to address both aspects of the condition.
Symptoms of Schizoaffective Disorder
- Mood changes
This involves experiencing periods of depression (feeling very low, hopeless, or tired) and then mania (feeling unusually energetic, restless, or irritable).
- Hallucinations
Persons with schizoaffective disorder may see, hear, or sense things that are not really there, such as voices or visions.
- Delusions
These are strong beliefs that are not based in reality. Examples are feeling watched or having unusual ideas about oneself.
- Disorganized thinking
Thoughts may feel scattered, making it harder to speak clearly or stay on topic.
- Difficulty functioning
People with schizoaffective disorder may struggle with work, school, or daily responsibilities because of its symptoms.
- Social withdrawal
This involves pulling away from family and friends or social situations.
- Changes in self-care
There may be neglect of hygiene, eating, or sleeping regularly.
Treatment for Schizoaffective Disorder
- Medication such as mood stabilizers, antidepressants, or antipsychotics, depending on the patient’s specific symptoms.
- Supportive therapy and counseling to help navigate daily challenges and maintain adherence to treatment.
- Lifestyle and wellness strategies, including sleep regulation, stress reduction, and mindfulness.
- Referrals for longer-term therapy or specialized support programs.
How Reverent Health Psychiatry Provides Schizoaffective Disorder Treatment
As part of our care, we offer integrated, evidence-based treatment involving the following approaches tailored to your needs:
- Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to ensure accurate diagnosis.
- Medication management for mood stabilization and reduction of psychotic symptoms.
- Brief supportive therapy to address coping skills, stress management, and emotional well-being.
- Holistic and trauma-informed care with referrals for therapy, support groups, or psychosocial rehabilitation where appropriate.
Begin your journey to stability and healing today
Managing a condition as complex as schizoaffective disorder requires the right support. Schedule a confidential telehealth appointment with Reverent Health Psychiatry in NY & TN.