Schizoaffecive Disorder

Symptoms of Schizoaffective Disorder

Symptoms of schizophrenia such as hallucinations, delusions, and greatly disorganized thinking must be concurrent with mood disorder symptoms and last at least two weeks for a diagnosis to be made. The symptoms presented will vary depending on which mood disorder is present.

With depressive type:

• Depressed mood
• Feelings of sadness
• Emptiness
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Sleep Alterations

With bipolar type:

• Dramatic shifts in mood
• Altered cognition
• Feelings of euphoria
• Racing thoughts
• Increased engagement in risky behavior
• Other manifestations of ups and downs

This disorder can arise from genetic predispositions, as it tends to run in families. Risk additionally increases when faced with stress or trauma that may change the chemistry and structure of the brain. Drug use, particularly LSD, can bring on symptoms of the illness. Schizoaffective disorder can also often be comorbid with anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and patterns of substance abuse. Mental health professionals will often approach treatment for schizoaffective disorder through a multi-faceted approach, usually a combination of psychotherapy and medication such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotic or antidepressant medications.