Key Takeaways
- Schizoaffective disorder bipolar type is a mental health condition characterized by psychotic symptoms (like hallucinations or delusions) and mood disorder symptoms. Specifically, this type includes manic episodes with occasional depressive episodes.
- We aren’t yet sure exactly what causes schizoaffective disorder bipolar type. Research suggests that genetics, brain structure, chemistry, environment, and lifestyle may play a role.
- While there’s no cure for schizoaffective disorder bipolar type, it can be managed with the right support. Treatment usually involves a combination of therapy, medication, self-care, and other services.
Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition that combines symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It can present either as the depressive or bipolar type, depending on a person’s symptoms. People with the bipolar type experience mania and psychosis (hallucinations and/or delusions).
This condition is a relatively new diagnosis, so there’s limited data on its prevalence within the general population. However, a recent study found that schizoaffective disorder affects approximately 5% to 30% of people who are hospitalized for psychosis. Fortunately, effective treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Symptoms of schizoaffective disorder bipolar type
Schizoaffective disorder bipolar type can present in a variety of ways. But some of the most common symptoms include:
- Hallucinations: Seeing, hearing, smelling, or feeling things that aren’t there
- Delusions: Odd or objectively false beliefs
- Disorganized speech: Difficulty staying on topic or communicating clearly
- Disorganized thoughts: Trouble staying focused on one train of thought
- Mania: Experiencing racing thoughts, an elevated or euphoric mood, and engaging in risky behavior
- Depressed mood: Feeling empty, hopeless, or worthless (more prominent in people who have schizoaffective disorder depressed type)
Symptoms of schizoaffective disorder bipolar type can closely mirror symptoms of other conditions. Understanding these distinctions can help ensure you get the right care for your needs.
- Bipolar disorder with psychotic features: In bipolar disorder with psychotic features, psychotic symptoms are only present during mania. People with this condition don’t experience psychosis outside of mood episodes. With schizoaffective disorder bipolar type, a person will experience at least two weeks of psychosis without a mood episode.
- Schizophrenia: Schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder (both types) can both cause psychosis. But mood disorder symptoms must also be present to warrant a schizoaffective disorder diagnosis.
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Current knowledge on possible causes
Researchers are still working to understand what causes schizoaffective disorder bipolar type. But, based on current knowledge, it appears to be linked to the following factors:
- Genetics: Having a close family member, like a sibling or parent, who has schizoaffective disorder may increase your risk.
- Biology: Certain differences in brain chemistry and structure may be linked to schizoaffective disorder.
- Environment: Increased stress due to major life events may play a role in the onset of schizoaffective disorder.
- Lifestyle: Psychoactive drug use (for example, psychedelics like LSD) may make people with underlying symptoms more likely to develop schizoaffective disorder.
Living with bipolar schizoaffective disorder
Bipolar schizoaffective disorder is a serious mental health condition that typically requires lifelong treatment. In addition to receiving professional care, you can also use some self-care strategies to help manage your mental health.
- Access group support: Living with a mental health condition can be an isolating experience. Support groups can provide an opportunity to connect with other people who understand what you’re going through, share wisdom, and help you feel less alone.
- Increase self-awareness: Whether it’s tracking your mood or working to identify your triggers, deepening your self-awareness can help you know when you might need additional support.
- Prioritize physical well-being: Taking care of your body by getting enough rest, making time for movement, and eating a balanced diet can have a positive impact on your mental health.
- Monitor your stress level: Building stress-reducing activities into your day can help you balance your mood. Try to create a routine that includes healthy activities you enjoy.
- Avoid substances: Substances like caffeine, alcohol, or other drugs can impact your mood and overall well-being. You can ask your provider about which substances you may want to avoid.
Exploring your treatment options
When it comes to treating schizoaffective disorder bipolar type, early intervention can help promote the best possible outcomes. While each person will have unique support needs, most psychotic disorder treatment plans include a combination of medication, therapy, and self-care.
For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family therapy are frequently used to manage schizoaffective disorder. Various medications can help reduce psychotic and mood symptoms as well, and you can talk to your provider about which one might be right for you.
Left untreated, this condition, like other psychotic disorders, can lead to unsafe behaviors like self-harm and suicide. So if you or someone you care about is showing signs of schizoaffective disorder bipolar type, don’t hesitate to seek help.*
*A note on safety: 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. Their counselors will provide confidential support and resources to help keep you safe.
Developing a consistent routine, practicing self-care, and seeking support from loved ones can help someone with schizoaffective disorder bipolar type manage daily life, and I encourage them to remember that they’re not alone in this journey.
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Schizoaffective disorder bipolar type is characterized by a challenging combination of mania and psychosis. Left untreated, this condition can make it difficult to work, attend school, form relationships, and stay safe. We aren’t sure exactly what causes schizoaffective disorder bipolar type. But it appears to be tied to certain risk factors like genetics, biology, environment, and lifestyle. Fortunately, with early intervention and ongoing support, people with this condition increase stability, balance their mood, and improve their 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 15,000 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.
About the author
Liz Talago
Liz Talago, M.ed. is a mental health professional turned content writer and strategist based in the Detroit metro area. As an independent consultant for mental health organizations, Liz creates meaningful connections between brands and their audiences through strategic storytelling. Liz is known for championing diverse perspectives within the mental health industry and translating bold ideas into inspiring, affirming digital experiences.
In her free time, you can find her hiking with her two German Shepherds, puttering around her dahlia garden, or spending time with her family.
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