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Schizoaffective Disorder

What is schizoaffective disorder?

Schizoaffective disorder is a long-term mental health condition that combines symptoms of psychosis (as seen in schizophrenia) with symptoms of a mood disorder (depression or mania).

People with schizoaffective disorder may experience hallucinations or delusions alongside periods of very low or very high mood. With the right treatment and support, many people manage their symptoms and live full lives, including holding down work.

What are the different types of schizoaffective disorder?

Bipolar type: Psychosis alongside episodes of mania (very high mood and energy), and sometimes depression.

Depressive type: Psychosis alongside episodes of major depression only.

What are the signs of schizoaffective disorder?

1. Psychotic symptoms:

  • Hallucinations, such as hearing voices.
  • Delusions, such as believing you are being watched or controlled.
  • Muddled thinking or speech.

2. Depressive symptoms:

  • Low mood and hopelessness.
  • Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy.
  • Tiredness and changes to sleep and appetite.
  • Thoughts of suicide.

3. Manic symptoms:

  • Feeling extremely energetic, excited or irritable.
  • Needing much less sleep.
  • Racing thoughts and rapid speech.
  • Risky behaviour, such as overspending.

What are the statistics for schizoaffective disorder in the UK?

Prevalence: Schizoaffective disorder is less common than schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Estimates suggest it affects around 3 in 1,000 people over their lifetime.

Age: It usually first appears in early adulthood.

Treatment: Treatment usually combines medication (antipsychotics, mood stabilisers or antidepressants) with talking therapy and practical support. Many people are supported by a community mental health team.

Where to get help with schizoaffective disorder UK?

Always call 999 if you are in need of urgent help. In England you can also call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.

Rethink Mental Illness:
Website: https://www.rethink.org/
Advice line: 0808 801 0525

Mind:
Website: https://www.mind.org.uk/
Infoline: 0300 123 3393

SANEline:
Helpline: 0300 304 7000

Bipolar UK: Peer support for anyone affected by mood swings, including schizoaffective disorder.
Website: https://www.bipolaruk.org/

Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity:
Helpline: 0345 605 1956 (24/7)

Samaritans:
Helpline: 116 123 (24/7, free to call)

Your GP is the first step to a diagnosis and a treatment plan that works for you.

Conditions and diagnoses

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