Over the past several decades, mental health issues have been prevalent in several people in the United States. According to Mental Health America (MHA), around 50 million people in the United States experience mental illness and depression yearly.

Additionally, they validated that one in five individuals has a chronic condition called schizophrenia: an illness connected to mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Consult therapists on BetterHelp for quick guidance on how you or someone close to you can manage or reduce the symptoms of mental illness.

Moreover, there is another variant of mental health that combines the symptoms of schizophrenia and mood disorders. This chronic condition, called schizoaffective disorder, is the worst state of mental, emotional, behavioral, and bipolar disorder in society.

A research study reveals three out of one thousand individuals may start experiencing this mental illness at ages 16 to 28. 

However, the cause of schizoaffective disorder is mysterious and has no cure. The only option for you or someone you know having this disorder is to leverage psychotherapy with medication as the treatment approach.

Though medication is the primary treatment for managing the symptoms of schizoaffective disorders, combining talk therapy (psychotherapy), influences faster recovery from this illness. Here are a few types of psychotherapy commonly combined with medication to manage schizoaffective disorder:

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most effective approach to managing or reducing the symptoms of schizoaffective disorder. This therapeutic approach utilizes what links the patient’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to know and control his thinking and behavior disorders.

Here are some of the impacts CBT has on an individual with schizoaffective disorders:

• It helps identify and work on distorted or irrational thoughts associated with psychosis, such as delusions or hallucinations. 
• It helps individuals build up coping strategies and improve their overall emotional well-being.
• It helps identify specific triggers or stressors that may contribute to the onset of psychotic or mood episodes. 
• It helps individuals address concerns or challenges related to medication and better understand the benefits of consistent adherence. 
• It can also support individuals in developing routines and strategies to remember and manage their medications effectively.
• It helps individuals address social anxiety or isolation, enhance communication skills, and develop strategies to cope with challenges in work or educational settings.
• It improves social and occupational functioning and can contribute to a better quality of life.

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy offers several advantages in managing the symptoms of an individual with schizoaffective disorders. This approach improves overall well-being and supports recovery. Here are a few mindfulness-based therapies that may be helpful:

• It aims to cultivate non-judgmental awareness of the present moment.  
• It can help individuals develop psychological flexibility, reduce distress, and enhance functioning in various life domains.
• It helps individuals identify and respond to negative thoughts and emotions more adaptively.
• It can help individuals manage intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve interpersonal relationships.

Individual Psychotherapy

This form of therapy involves one-on-one sessions between the individual and the therapist. It provides a safe and supportive space for discussing concerns, exploring emotions, and developing insight into the disorder’s impact on one’s life.

Psychotherapy can help individuals better understand their symptoms, manage stress, and improve overall well-being.

Family Therapy

Schizoaffective disorder not only affects the individual but can also significantly impact family relationships.

Family therapy involves the participation of family members to enhance communication, educate about the disorder, and develop strategies for supporting the individual with schizoaffective disorder. It can help improve family dynamics, reduce stigma, and foster a supportive environment.

Group Therapy

Group therapy allows individuals with schizoaffective disorder to connect with others who share similar experiences.

It provides a supportive community where individuals can discuss their challenges, share coping strategies, and learn from each other. Group therapy can help reduce feelings of isolation, enhance social skills, and promote self-acceptance.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) 

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a medical procedure that involves passing electrical currents through the brain to induce a controlled seizure. Your therapist can use this approach as a treatment for severe depression, and they can use it for other psychiatric conditions, including schizoaffective disorder.

In addition, they primarily administer ECT under general anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety. During the procedure, the healthcare specialist passes an electrical current through the brain, resulting in a controlled seizure that lasts for a short duration.

Though it is unclear how ECT’s exact mechanisms function, they affect certain neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to symptom improvement.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of talk therapy may vary from person to person. Healthcare providers or therapists often combine any of these psychotherapy approaches with medication to provide comprehensive treatment. 

Working with a qualified mental health professional who can tailor the therapy to your specific needs and goals is vital. They will consider factors such as the severity of symptoms, previous treatment response, and any underlying medical conditions to make an informed decision about the appropriateness of the treatment option for schizoaffective disorder.

Therefore, book sessions with online therapists on BetterHelp today. They are professionals with a license to render therapeutic services for schizoaffective disorder.

The Causes of Schizoaffective Disorders 

The exact causes of schizoaffective disorder are mysterious as discussed earlier. Researchers opine that genetics, environment, and neurochemicals may trigger it. Here are some factors that may contribute to the development of schizoaffective disorder:

1. Genetics: There is evidence that genetic factors play a role in developing schizoaffective disorder. A family history of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or schizoaffective disorder may increase the risk of developing the condition.

2. Brain chemistry and structure: Imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) such as dopamine and serotonin may contribute to the development of schizoaffective disorder.

Additionally, abnormalities in brain structure, including changes in certain brain regions and their connectivity, may worsen this illness in individuals with mental disorders.

3. Environmental factors: Certain environmental factors may also contribute to the development of schizoaffective disorder.

These can include exposure to prenatal or childhood infections, complications during pregnancy or childbirth, early developmental trauma or stress, substance abuse, and living in an urban environment.

4. Neurodevelopmental factors: Schizoaffective disorder may happen due to the validation of neurodevelopmental origins. This can result in disruptions in early brain development, potentially contributing to the onset of symptoms later in life.

When to see a therapist?

The best time to see a therapist is the moment you observe some common symptoms of schizoaffective disorder: psychotic symptoms and mood symptoms. It’s important to note that the specific symptoms and their severity can vary among individuals.

Here are the common symptoms associated with schizoaffective disorder:

1. Psychotic Symptoms:

• Hallucinations: Sensing things that are not present, such as hearing voices, seeing things, or feeling sensations others don’t perceive.
• Delusions: Holding fixed false beliefs that are not based on reality. These beliefs can be paranoid (feeling persecuted or spied on), grandiose (believing in extraordinary abilities or powers), or bizarre (holding unusual or irrational beliefs).
• Disorganized thinking and speech: Exhibiting difficulties in organizing thoughts and expressing them coherently. Speech may be divergent, incoherent, or derailed from the topic.
• Disorganized or abnormal behavior: Displaying unusual or unpredictable behavior patterns, such as odd body movements, inappropriate emotional responses, or difficulties with daily activities and self-care.

2. Mood Symptoms:

• Depression: Feeling persistently sad, hopeless, or lacking interest and pleasure in activities. Other depressive symptoms can include changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, low energy, guilt or worthlessness, and suicidal thoughts.
• Mania or Hypomania: Experiencing periods of elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, racing thoughts, inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, impulsivity, and engagement in high-risk activities.

3. Other Symptoms:

• Anxiety: Experiencing excessive worry, fear, or restlessness.
• Disorganized thinking and speech: People with schizoaffective disorder may have difficulty organizing their thoughts and exhibit disorganized speech patterns. Their speech may be tangential or derailed from the topic.
• Cognitive difficulties: This can include problems with attention, memory, and decision-making. Some individuals may find it challenging to concentrate or experience a decline in cognitive functioning.
• Social and occupational problems: Schizoaffective disorder can interfere with a person’s ability to maintain relationships, perform well at work or school, and engage in daily activities.
• Anhedonia refers to the inability to experience or find enjoyment in previously enjoyed activities. It is a common symptom of depression that can be present in schizoaffective disorder.
• Sleep disturbances: Sleep problems, such as insomnia or excessive sleep, can occur in schizoaffective disorder, contributing to the overall impairment in functioning.

It’s important to note that not all individuals with schizoaffective disorder will experience all of these symptoms and the severity and frequency of symptoms can vary. Suppose you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms suggestive of schizoaffective disorder.

In that case, seeking professional help from a mental health provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment is recommended.

The best healthcare provider for schizoaffective disorders

When seeking therapy for schizoaffective disorder, finding a mental health professional with experience and expertise in working with individuals with this specific condition is important. Here are some types of therapists who may be well-suited to provide effective treatment for schizoaffective disorder:

1. Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health diagnoses and prescribe medication for schizoaffective disorder. They can also provide therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), supportive therapy, or psychoeducation.

2. Psychologist: Psychologists are mental health professionals who provide therapy and counseling services.

They may have expertise in evidence-based therapies for schizoaffective disorder, including CBT, family therapy, and psychoeducation. They can also conduct psychological assessments and help with developing coping strategies.

3. Clinical Social Worker: Clinical social workers have training in providing therapy and support for individuals with mental health conditions.

They may use various therapeutic approaches, including individual and group therapy, to address the challenges associated with schizoaffective disorder. They can also provide support with social and practical issues, such as accessing community resources.

4. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner: Psychiatric nurse practitioners are advanced practice nurses specializing in mental health. They can assess, diagnose, and prescribe medication for schizoaffective disorder.

Additionally, they may offer therapy and support services, often in collaboration with other mental health professionals.

5. Psychotherapist specializing in severe mental illnesses: Some therapists work with individuals with severe mental illnesses, including schizoaffective disorder. They may have specific training and expertise in providing therapy tailored to individuals with this condition’s unique needs and challenges.

It is essential to consider the specific needs and preferences of the individual seeking treatment. Finding the right therapist involves a combination of factors, including the therapist’s experience, approach to therapy, and the individual’s rapport and comfort level with the therapist.

At BetterHelp, our therapists are adept at managing and controlling schizoaffective disorders. They don’t prescribe medications but only refer you to medical practitioners if the condition calls for it.

Consult only therapists who have the license and expertise in dealing with people with schizoaffective disorder. Then, consider scheduling an initial consultation to discuss your needs and treatment options. 

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