Overview

Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health disorder characterized by a combination of schizophrenia symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions, and mood disorder symptoms, such as depression or mania.

Symptoms

Symptoms of schizoaffective disorder can vary from person to person and may include psychotic symptoms like hallucinations and delusions, as well as symptoms of a mood disorder. There are two types of schizoaffective disorder: bipolar type, which includes episodes of mania and sometimes major depression, and depressive type, which includes only major depressive episodes. Defining features of schizoaffective disorder include a major mood episode and a two-week period of psychotic symptoms when a major mood episode is not present.

Common symptoms of schizoaffective disorder include delusions, hallucinations, impaired communication and speech, bizarre or unusual behavior, symptoms of depression or manic mood, impaired occupational and social functioning, and problems with managing personal care.

When to See a Doctor

If you suspect that someone you know may have schizoaffective disorder symptoms, talk to that person about your concerns and encourage them to seek professional help. If your loved one is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, call emergency responders for help or take them to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Causes

The exact causes of schizoaffective disorder are still under investigation, but genetics are likely a factor in its development.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase the risk of developing schizoaffective disorder include having a close blood relative with schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder, experiencing stressful events that may trigger symptoms, and taking mind-altering drugs that can worsen symptoms when an underlying disorder is present.

Complications

Untreated schizoaffective disorder can lead to various complications, including an increased risk of suicide, social isolation, family conflicts, unemployment, anxiety disorders, substance use problems, significant health issues, and poverty and homelessness.