Definition
Definition
Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition that has symptoms of a mood disorder and psychosis. It is a disorder that has some symptoms similar to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia but is considered a separate disorder.
Causes
Causes
It is not clear what causes schizoaffective disorder. Some factors that may play a role in schizoaffective disorder include:
- Imbalance of chemicals in the brain such as serotonin and dopamine
- Changes in certain areas of the brain, such as those that affect emotion and cognition
These changes in the brain and chemicals may be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
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Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Schizoaffective disorder is more common in women than men.
A family history of mental illness may also increase the risk of schizoaffective disorder.
Symptoms
Symptoms
Symptoms may vary depending on age or sex. For example:
- Males are more likely to develop symptoms which first appear during teen years or early twenties
- Women are more likely to develop symptoms in their twenties
- Younger people tend to have manic symptoms
- Older people tend to have depressive symptoms
Symptoms also vary between people but may include a mix of symptoms of depression, mania, or psychosis.
Depressive symptoms can include:
- Depressed mood
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Poor appetite
- Difficulty focusing
- Difficulty sleeping including insomnia
- Agitation
- Weight loss
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Suicidal or other morbid thoughts
Manic symptoms may include:
- Rapid or racing thoughts
- Increased activity and talking
- Easily distracted
- Agitation
- Not needing sleep
- Inflated self-esteem or lofty ideas
- Self-harming behaviors
Psychotic symptoms may include:
- Delusions
- Hallucinations
- Disorganized speech, thinking, and behavior
- Total calm
- Lack of facial expression, speech, or motivation
These symptoms can also lead to difficulty carrying out basic self-care and hygiene tasks, cause problems creating or keeping personal relationships, and holding a job.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
A diagnosis is made according to the health history and symptoms that you and those around you report to the doctor. Certain features and symptoms will help your doctor identify schizoaffective disorder from other similar conditions such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
You may be referred to a specialist for diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment
Treatment for schizoaffective disorder is focused on managing symptoms and preventing a worsening of symptoms. Most treatments include a combination of medication, counseling, and lifestyle changes.
Consistent contact with your healthcare team is important to keep treatment on track, address exacerbation, and improve quality of life.
Medication
Medication may help to manage symptoms. The exact type of medication will depend on your symptoms but may include one or more of the following types of medication:
- Antipsychotic medications—to address symptoms of psychosis
- Antidepressants—to treat symptoms of depression
- Mood stabilizers
Medication needs may change. Regular contact with your medical team can help identify when these changes may be needed.
Counseling
There are a variety of counseling options to help manage symptoms and the effects of this disorder. Some therapy options include:
- Psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy—to learn about the illness, manage problems, and create goals
- Social skill training
- Support groups
- Family counseling—to help family members understand challenges and how to best provide support
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can help cope with challenges of a mental condition and decrease worsening of symptoms. Lifestyle changes may include:
- Strive for regular daily routine.
- Aim for a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
- Identify stressors and try to avoid them.
- Keep your home environment calm and relaxed.
- Avoid alcohol and illegal drug use. Talk to your doctor if you are currently using drugs or drinking regularly.
Prevention
Prevention
Since the cause is unclear, there is no known way to prevent schizoaffective disorder.
RESOURCES:
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Mood Disorder Association of Canada http://www.mooddisorderscanada.ca
References:
http://www.ebscohost.com/nursing/products/nursing-reference-center
Updated date January 10, 2014. Accessed date August 19, 2014.
Schizoaffective disorder. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed
Updated December 23, 2013. Accessed date August 19, 2014.
Schizoaffective disorder. National Alliance on Mental Illness website. Available at:
http://www.nami.org/Template.cfm?Section=By_Illness&Template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=23043
Accessed August 18, 2014.
Last Updated: 4/7/2015