Managing Schizoaffective Disorder
Schizoaffective disorder is a chronic mental health condition that affects approximately 0.3-0.5% of the general population worldwide. It is a combination of schizophrenia and mood disorders such as bipolar disorder or depression.
This condition is characterized by a combination of symptoms related to mood and psychosis. Individuals with schizoaffective disorder experience symptoms ranging from delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking to mood swings, depression and suicidal thoughts.
Although there is still no cure for schizoaffective disorder, different types of treatments are available to manage the condition and enable individuals with schizoaffective disorder to lead healthy and productive lives.
Symptoms of Schizoaffective Disorder
Schizoaffective disorder can be diagnosed when an individual experiences the following symptoms:
- At least two weeks of psychotic symptoms such as delusions or hallucinations without a mood disorder episode
- During the same period, at least two weeks of mood disorder symptoms such as mania, hypomania, or depression
- Delusions or hallucinations for two or more weeks during mood disorder episodes
- Symptoms are not related to substance use or a medical condition
Treatment Options for Schizoaffective Disorder
Schizoaffective disorder is a complicated condition that requires multimodal treatment. That means treatment is tailored to the individual based on their symptoms, medical history, and other factors. Some of the most common treatments include:
Medications
Antipsychotic medication can help alleviate symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations. Mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications are also given to manage symptoms of mood disorders. Different people respond differently to medication. There may be a need to try different drugs, dosages or a combination of drugs.
It is important to work collaboratively with your mental health care team to find the right medication, and monitor any side effects regularly. Some side effects such as weight gain and diabetes risk require regular monitoring from a medical care team.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy involves meeting one-on-one with a licensed therapist or mental health professional. They help the patients to identify symptoms of schizoaffective disorder and work on coping mechanisms to improve their quality of life.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a popular form of psychotherapy for people with schizoaffective disorder. It helps patients to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs, which lead to feelings of anxiety and depression.
Family therapy is also significant in helping both individuals with schizoaffective disorder and their family members who can be affected by the disorder. Family therapy helps families to understand the condition better, provide support and recognize triggers.
Self-help and Support Groups
Self-help and support groups can be a valuable resource for individuals living with schizoaffective disorder. These groups offer individuals an opportunity to connect with others living with the same condition. It can provide a supportive community, helpful tips, and experiences to help individuals manage their day-to-day life.
Hospitalization
In severe cases, people with schizoaffective disorder may need hospitalization to manage their symptoms or receive further evaluation.
Hospitalization provides the care and support staff for individuals who do not have access to their mental health support team, are a danger to themselves or others, or require complicated treatments.
Lifestyle Changes to Manage Schizoaffective Disorder
Although medication and psychotherapy are significant in managing schizoaffective disorder, lifestyle changes may provide more support. Here are some lifestyle changes that can aid in managing the disorder:
Physical Exercise
Regular exercising reduces depression, anxiety, and stress, and leads to a better mood, cognitive function, and general physical health. Physical fitness, meditative practices such as yoga or tai chi, nature walks, and other exercises may help individuals manage stress levels.
Sleep Hygiene
Sleep hygiene refers to a set of habits that can help people have better sleep quality. Good sleep hygiene promotes healthy sleep patterns, managing stress and helps to stabilize moods. Creating a regular sleep schedule that includes a consistent sleep routine with stable sleep and wake times can improve sleep quality.
Alcohol and drug avoidance
Individuals with schizoaffective disorder should avoid or minimize substance use as it can worsen their symptoms. Substance use can worsen mood disorder episodes and negatively impact on medication efficacy. Substance use increases the risk of psychotic symptoms and increases the likelihood of relapse.
Nutrition
Poor nutrition can lead to physical health complications and worsen symptoms of mood disorder episodes. Nutrition is a critical part of managing schizoaffective disorder. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and protein can boost mental and physical health.
Conclusion
Schizoaffective disorder requires lifelong treatment and management. An individual’s support network, mental health care team and lifestyle changes can improve the individual’s general wellbeing and quality of life. Treatment requires a multimodal approach of psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle management.
Individuals living with schizoaffective disorder should contact their mental health care team for further assistances and advice at any point. The support network of family, friends or support groups can also help promote mental wellness. With a well-coordinated treatment plan, an individual with schizoaffective disorder can manage the disorder and improve their quality of life.
FAQs
FAQs about Managing Schizoaffective Disorder
What is Schizoaffective Disorder?
Schizoaffective Disorder is a form of mental illness that is characterized by a combination of symptoms of schizophrenia and mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder. Individuals with Schizoaffective Disorder may experience hallucinations, delusions, disordered thoughts, and changes in mood and behaviour.
What are some effective ways to manage Schizoaffective Disorder?
Managing Schizoaffective Disorder involves a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Medication can help to control symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, while therapy can assist with addressing mood and behavioural changes. Some lifestyle changes that may help to manage symptoms include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and drugs.
Can someone with Schizoaffective Disorder lead a fulfilling life?
Yes, it is possible for someone with Schizoaffective Disorder to lead a fulfilling life with the right treatment and support. By managing symptoms and addressing any underlying mood disorders, individuals with Schizoaffective Disorder can achieve their goals and live a meaningful life. It is important to seek help from mental health professionals and establish a support system of family and friends.
References
1. Abramowitz, E. G., & Barbui, C. (2021). Pharmacological approaches to managing schizoaffective disorder. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 34(2), 163-168.
2. Efrosina, A. R., Kostyukov, A. I., & Zhukova, T. V. (2019). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for schizoaffective disorder: Efficacy and challenges. Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology, 27(3), 205-214.
3. Torniainen, M., Mittendorfer-Rutz, E., Tanskanen, A., Björkenstam, C., Suvisaari, J., Alexanderson, K., … & Sourander, A. (2018). Impact of psychiatric and somatic comorbidity on the risk of premature death among adults with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or depression in Finland. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 106, 48-54.