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All mental disorders cause distress for those who live with them, but few conditions are more disruptive than schizoaffective disorder. This chronic mental health condition is relatively rare, impacting only 0.3% of the population. However, for those living with the disorder and the people who love them, schizoaffective disorder can be devastating. At SanCharles Behavioral Healthcare Services LLC in Addison, Texas, Sandra Nwanganga-Anusiem, DNP, PMHNP-BC, offers compassionate care to those affected by schizoaffective disorder. To get the care and support you need, call SanCharles Behavioral Healthcare Services LLC or request an appointment online today.
What is schizoaffective disorder?
Schizoaffective disorder is a serious, chronic mental health condition that shares features of both schizophrenia and mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder. Because symptoms overlap with other psychiatric conditions, schizoaffective disorder is frequently misdiagnosed, which can delay appropriate treatment.
An accurate diagnosis requires the presence of psychotic symptoms along with significant mood episodes over time.
Individuals with schizoaffective disorder may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Manic behavior, including elevated mood, impulsivity, or decreased need for sleep
- Depressive behavior, such as persistent sadness, low energy, or feelings of hopelessness
- Hallucinations, including hearing or seeing things that are not present
- Delusions, or fixed false beliefs not grounded in reality
- Disorganized thinking or speech that interferes with daily functioning
Research has also shown that people living with schizoaffective disorder are at a higher risk for substance use disorders. This often develops as an attempt to self-medicate distressing symptoms, but substance use can worsen both mood and psychotic symptoms over time.
What are the causes of schizoaffective disorder?
The exact cause of schizoaffective disorder remains unknown, but researchers have identified several contributing factors:
- Genetics: The condition appears to run in families, suggesting a genetic vulnerability
- Stress: Major life stressors or traumatic events may trigger symptom onset in individuals who are predisposed
- Brain chemistry and structure: Abnormalities in brain chemistry and structure, particularly involving neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, are believed to play a role
- Drug use: Research has demonstrated a strong association between the use of psychoactive substances—especially during adolescence—and the later development or worsening of psychotic disorders
What treatment options are available for schizoaffective disorder?
At SanCharles Behavioral Healthcare Services LLC, Sandra uses a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to treating schizoaffective disorder.
Treatment typically begins with psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals manage symptoms, challenge distorted thinking patterns, and improve daily functioning. Family counseling is also an important component of care, providing education and support to loved ones.
Medication is a cornerstone of treatment. A carefully tailored combination of antipsychotic medications, mood stabilizers, and antidepressants is often used to address both psychotic and mood symptoms.
In certain cases, Sandra may also provide referrals for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as part of a broader treatment plan.
If you or a loved one has schizoaffective disorder, call SanCharles Behavioral Healthcare Services LLC or request an appointment online today.