What Is Schizoaffective Disorder?

Schizoaffective disorder combines symptoms of schizophrenia and a mood disorder like bipolar disorder or depression, which can be overwhelming to navigate on your own. Meanwhile, when you add substance use into the mix, the issue becomes much more alarming. Of course, any case of substance use and co-occurring mental disorders requires more individualized and integrated treatment. However, living a life of sobriety is possible with schizoaffective disorder and substance use disorder (SUD) with the help of a professional treatment program.

For years, West Coast Recovery Centers provided a safe and supportive environment for people struggling with SUD to get help. We are proud to offer an outpatient recovery track solely for mental health. The program embodies our unwavering commitment to fostering holistic healing for those struggling with mental health conditions, including schizoaffective disorder. If you or someone you love is struggling with their mental health and substance use, consider seeking treatment with us today. 

What Is Schizoaffective Disorder?

As mentioned, schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition including features or symptoms of schizophrenia and a mood disorder, such as depression or bipolar disorder. Further, as stated by MedlinePlus, the prefix schizo is used to refer to “the psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia that affect a person's thinking, sense of self, and perceptions.” Additionally, affective “refers to extreme shifts in mood, energy, and behavior.” 

To understand this condition better, it might be beneficial to learn a little more about schizophrenia and mood disorders. 

Schizophrenia

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) describes schizophrenia as a “serious mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.” Further, individuals with schizophrenia may appear like they have “lost touch with reality," causing significant stress to them and their loved ones. Symptoms may include experiencing hallucinations and delusions, disorganized thinking and speech, social withdrawal, cognitive impairment, paranoid thoughts, substance use, and suicidal thoughts. 

Mood Disorders

Two of the most common mood disorders we hear of are depression and bipolar disorder. However, a mood disorder is a condition that influences a person's day-to-day emotional state. That may include dysthymia, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and postpartum depression. Signs and symptoms may vary from one mood disorder to another. However, some signs to look out for include persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, low energy, changes in sleeping patterns and eating habits, trouble concentrating, social withdrawal, and suicidal thoughts. 

Now that we understand schizophrenia and mood disorders a little bit better, we should consider what some of the signs and symptoms of schizoaffective disorder are. Treatment is available, but people must recognize the signs and symptoms to seek treatment. Taking it a step further, individuals must recognize these signs and be willing to admit and accept that they have a problem. 

Signs and Symptoms

Above, we mentioned some of the symptoms of schizophrenia and mood disorders. Many of schizoaffective disorder's symptoms may overlap with the symptoms we mentioned. However, as mentioned, familiarizing ourselves with these signs can be key to helping ourselves or a loved one seek treatment. So, some of the telltale warning signs to be on the lookout for include: 

• Hallucinations and delusions
• Disorganized speech and behavior 
• Loss of interest in hobbies and enjoyable activities 
• Low energy and intense feelings of sadness 
• Manic symptoms, such as high energy, upbeat moods, and racing thoughts 
• Impulsive or risky behavior that is increasing in frequency or severity
• Difficulty functioning day-to-day at work, school, or home 
• Reduced range of emotions and trouble relating to others 
• Further disorganized or catatonic behavior
• Cognitive impairments, such as issues with memory or executive functioning  

How Is Schizoaffective Disorder Treated?

As mentioned, treatment for schizoaffective disorder is possible, but individuals must seek it out. Treatment may also differ from one person to the next. However, treatment for schizoaffective disorder will generally combine medication and psychotherapeutic interventions, typically consisting of: 

• Medications focused on managing psychotic symptoms
• Mood stabilizers and/or antidepressants
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) 
• Family therapy, education, and support 
• Social skills training, including support for employment and vocational rehabilitation 

Of course, when SUD is involved, treatment may begin to look slightly different. 

Is There Any Connection Between Schizoaffective Disorder and Addiction?

Individuals must understand the potential connection between schizoaffective disorder and addiction to seek the appropriate care. The relationship between these two conditions can become quite complex. Individuals with schizoaffective disorder may be at an increased risk for substance abuse and vice versa. Some of the factors contributing to these risks include: 

• People may self-medicate to manage their schizoaffective symptoms 
• Substance use can exacerbate symptoms or interfere with medications 
• Individuals may be at a greater risk for developing other co-occurring conditions 
• Genetic predispositions, brain chemistry, and neurobiological factors can lead people to abuse substances 
• Early exposure to trauma may significantly influence and contribute to one's chances of schizoaffective disorder and/or SUD 

Meanwhile, the best way to treat and manage schizoaffective disorder and addiction simultaneously is through: 

• Integrated dual diagnosis treatment 
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) 
• Individual psychotherapy and counseling 
• Support and relapse prevention programs 
• Family and community support and other resources

These are just a few ways you or a loved one can begin treating your schizoaffective disorder and SUD. Contact us at West Coast Recovery Centers for more information today. 

Individuals struggling with schizoaffective disorder may be at a greater risk for developing substance use disorder (SUD). Many may self-medicate to manage their symptoms while others are genetically predisposed to addiction. The complex connection between these two conditions can create a vicious cycle that makes it nearly impossible for people to function day-to-day, and though it may not seem like it right now, treatment is possible. West Coast Recovery Centers provides integrative and individualized treatment to people struggling with SUD and several other mental health conditions, including schizoaffective disorder. We encourage you to seek treatment immediately if you struggle with these conditions. Call (760) 492-6509 to start your path to recovery today.