What is schizoaffective disorder?

Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health concern that’s similar to schizophrenia. Like other psychotic disorders, it can affect your ability to function in many areas of your life due to symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. But what distinguishes schizoaffective disorder from schizophrenia is the presence of mood disorder symptoms (like depression and/or mania). 

There’s limited information on how common this condition is because the diagnostic criteria for schizoaffective disorder have evolved over time. But research suggests that it’s relatively rare, with only about 0.3% of people experiencing it at some point in their lives. 

Symptoms of schizoaffective disorder

Some of the most common symptoms of schizoaffective disorder include:

• Hallucinations (seeing, hearing, tasting, feeling, and/or smelling things that aren’t there)
• Delusions (fixed, false beliefs that are objectively untrue)
• Disorganized thinking 
• Disorganized speech
• Odd or unusual behavior
• Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and/ or sadness (depression)
• Periods of intense energy, racing thoughts, and/or increased risky behavior (mania)

Schizoaffective disorder has two subtypes: depressive and bipolar. People with the bipolar type experience symptoms of schizophrenia with symptoms of mania. People with the depressive type experience symptoms of schizophrenia with symptoms of depression.

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What we know about potential causes

At this time, there are no conclusive studies on the causes of schizoaffective disorder. But experts think it might happen due to:

• Genetics: Having a first-degree relative, like a parent or sibling, with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder may increase your risk.
• Biology: Differences in certain areas of the brain are linked to the development of schizoaffective disorder.
• Stress: There’s evidence to suggest a strong correlation between stress, schizophrenia, and mood disorders. So, similarly, increased stress may play a role in the onset of schizoaffective episodes.
• Substance use: If you’re at higher risk of developing schizoaffective disorder (due to biology or genetics), using psychoactive substances like LSD can bring on symptoms.

Living with schizoaffective disorder

Living with schizoaffective disorder can be a challenging experience. Left untreated, it can lead to:

• Ongoing mood instability
• Ongoing psychotic symptoms (hallucinations and/or delusions)
• Significant problems with occupational, academic, and daily functioning
• Social isolation and withdrawal
• Difficulty with concentration and focus
• Increased risk of developing a substance use disorder (SUD) or other mental health conditions
• Increased risk of self-harm and suicidality*

*A note on safety: Research shows that as many as 5% of people with a psychotic disorder, like schizoaffective disorder, will die by suicide. If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You can contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 from any phone. The counselors there will provide confidential support and resources to help keep you safe.

Getting a diagnosis for schizoaffective disorder

To receive a diagnosis for schizoaffective disorder, you’ll need to meet with a licensed mental health professional, like a psychiatrist or therapist. Your provider will ask you questions about your medical, social, and mental health histories to better understand how your symptoms have affected your life. 

These conversations will serve as the basis for your evaluation. They’ll help your provider determine whether you meet the diagnostic criteria for schizoaffective disorder, as outlined below:

• You have periods when you experience symptoms of a mood disorder (depression or mania) and symptoms of schizophrenia at the same time.
• You experience delusions or hallucinations for at least two weeks when you’re not experiencing mood disorder symptoms.
• You experience major mood disorder symptoms for the majority of the time that you experience other symptoms. 
• Your symptoms aren’t the result of drug use or medication.

Treatment options for schizoaffective disorder

Although, left untreated, it’s a lifelong condition, schizoaffective disorder can be managed with the right support. And when it comes to achieving positive outcomes, early intervention and ongoing treatment are key. One study found that about 50% of people who consistently engaged with care experienced a full resolution of their symptoms. 

Some of the most effective treatments for schizoaffective disorder include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT can help you interrupt and replace unhelpful thought and behavior patterns and learn new ways to cope with stress.
• Family therapy: For some people, having loved ones involved in their care can increase support during their recovery.
• Medications: Various medications can help with mood and psychotic symptoms. You can talk to your provider about whether medication might be right for you.
• Psychoeducation: Learning more about schizoaffective disorder can encourage self-compassion, help you stay committed to treatment, and help you better understand yourself. 
• Self-care strategies: While not a replacement for professional help, maintaining a self-care routine can strengthen your mental health. This might include sharing your experiences with someone you trust, taking good care of your physical health, and doing activities that reduce stress.

Find care with Rula

Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition that combines symptoms of schizophrenia (like psychosis) with mood disorder symptoms (like depression or mania). While it’s a complex condition, with the right support, you can learn to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best.

Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 10,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we’re here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.

Get started with Rula today