Schizoaffective disorder combines symptoms of psychotic illness -- such as hallucinations and delusions -- with symptoms of a mood disorder, like depression or mania. The condition is less common than either schizophrenia or mood disorders, but it's still a serious mental health condition that needs treatment. People with schizoaffective disorder have higher rates of substance abuse problems and suicide than the general population.


Schizoaffective disorders usually appear in adolescence or young adulthood, although some adults with the disorder experience their first symptoms as early as childhood. Symptoms may be mild at times, but when they're at their peak, they can be disabling. They can include hallucinations (hearing, seeing, or feeling things that aren't there) and delusions (strongly held false beliefs). Other psychiatric symptoms of schizoaffective disorder include poor memory, difficulties with thinking and concentration, changes in sleeping patterns, and impulsive behavior. People with schizoaffective disorders often have difficulty maintaining relationships and finding employment.

The cause of schizoaffective disorder isn't fully understood, but genetics and brain chemicals play a role. Symptoms may be caused by alcohol or drug use, or they might occur as a side effect of some medications. People who have a family history of the disorder are at higher risk for it themselves.

There are no lab tests to diagnose schizoaffective disorder, but doctors will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They will also perform a physical exam and take blood tests to make sure another illness isn't causing them. The types of blood tests may include a urinalysis, liver function test, serum creatine kinase (CK) level to rule out neuroleptic malignant syndrome, and a complete metabolic panel to check for other illnesses.

People with schizoaffective disorder need both psychiatric and medical treatments to help them feel better. Medications may include antipsychotics, which treat symptoms of psychosis, and mood stabilizers or antidepressants to treat mood-related symptoms. Psychotherapy can also be helpful, and it helps family members learn how to relate to a loved one with the condition and support them. Skills training, which teaches practical activities such as work and social skills, grooming, and day-to-day tasks like money management, can improve quality of life for someone with schizoaffective disorder.

If you have schizoaffective disorder, it's important to follow your doctor's treatment plan and go to your appointments. This will help you get the most out of your treatment. You can also help yourself by getting enough sleep, eating well, staying active, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and practicing stress reduction techniques. Talking to friends and family can be helpful, as can joining a mental health support group in person or online. And if you're having suicidal thoughts, call 911 or your local emergency number right away.