Schizoaffective Disorder – Symptoms and Causes

Overview

Schizoaffective disorder combines features of schizophrenia with mood disorders. People with this condition experience both psychotic symptoms and significant mood changes.

The psychotic symptoms include hallucinations (perceiving things that aren’t there) and delusions (believing things that aren’t true). These occur alongside mood disturbances that vary by type.

There are two main types of schizoaffective disorder:

• Bipolar Type – includes episodes of mania or hypomania, sometimes with major depression.
• Depressive Type – features only major depressive episodes.

The condition affects each person differently. Without proper treatment, schizoaffective disorder can significantly disrupt daily functioning.

People may struggle with work, education, and social relationships.

Treatment is essential for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Many individuals with schizoaffective disorder benefit from ongoing support to help them navigate daily challenges and maintain their wellbeing.

Understanding this complex condition helps both patients and their support networks develop effective strategies for living with schizoaffective disorder.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of schizoaffective disorder can differ from person to person. This condition combines psychotic symptoms (like hallucinations and delusions) with mood disorder symptoms.

There are two main types: the bipolar type, which includes periods of mania and sometimes depression, and the depressive type, which primarily features depressive episodes.

The way this condition develops varies, but it typically includes a major period of depressed or manic mood along with at least two weeks of psychotic symptoms when mood issues aren’t present.

Common symptoms include:

• False beliefs that don’t change despite evidence to the contrary.
• Hallucinations, such as hearing voices or seeing things others don’t.
• Confused thinking and speech that’s hard to follow.
• Unusual behavior that seems strange to others.
• Depressive feelings of emptiness, sadness, or worthlessness.
• Manic episodes with increased energy and reduced need for sleep.
• Difficulty functioning at work, school, or in social settings.
• Poor self-care, such as neglecting personal hygiene or appearance.

When to Get Medical Help

If you notice these symptoms in someone you know, talk with them about your concerns. You can’t force someone to seek help, but you can offer support and assistance in finding a healthcare or mental health professional.

For someone who may be unable to care for their basic needs like food, shelter, or clothing, you might need to contact emergency services, a mental health hotline, or social services to get professional help.

Warning Signs of Suicide Risk

People with schizoaffective disorder may talk about or attempt suicide. If someone you care about seems at risk:

1. Don’t leave them alone
2. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7).

Quick action can save lives when someone shows warning signs of suicide.

Causes

Scientists don’t fully understand what causes schizoaffective disorder. However, research suggests that genetics likely plays an important role. When family members have this condition, it increases the risk that others in the family might develop it too.

This hereditary connection points to specific genes that may be passed from parents to children. Family history is often a significant factor that doctors consider when diagnosing this disorder.

Risk Factors

Several factors may increase the chance of developing schizoaffective disorder:

• Family History: Having a parent or sibling with schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder.
• Stress: Experiencing highly stressful life events that might trigger symptoms.
• Substance Use: Using mind-altering drugs, which can worsen symptoms when an underlying condition exists.

These risk factors don’t guarantee someone will develop the disorder, but they may contribute to its development.

Risks and Challenges

People with schizoaffective disorder face several important risks. They have a higher chance of suicide attempts and suicidal thoughts.

Social isolation is common, as are family conflicts and relationship problems.

Employment difficulties often occur. This can lead to financial problems, poverty, and sometimes homelessness. Many experience additional mental health issues like anxiety disorders or substance abuse problems.

Physical health risks include:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Obesity

These individuals may become victims of assault. While they can also have aggressive episodes, they are more frequently the targets rather than perpetrators of violence.