Schizoaffective disorder is a relatively rare mental health condition requiring intensive treatments from expert therapists and medical staff. It also requires having a sincere, long-term commitment to recovery. This highly complex disorder can be challenging. Still, treatment for this condition has helped many patients and their families manage the symptoms and overcome its physical and mental effects. At Evoke Waltham, we offer treatment for people battling schizoaffective disorder and many other conditions.
If you or a loved one has been struggling with schizoaffective disorder, the Evoke Waltham Massachusetts mental health treatment center should be your first and last stop for treatment. With proper mental health care, this condition does not have to rule a patient’s life. We offer modern, research-supported care options for a wide variety of mental health issues. Reach out to us today at 866.276.1920 to learn more about our schizoaffective disorder treatment program.
What Is Schizoaffective Disorder?
Each year, approximately three out of every 1,000 people1 will experience schizoaffective disorder. It combines two different conditions: schizophrenia and a mood disorder, such as depression or bipolar disorder. People with schizoaffective disorder experience symptoms from both conditions. It can be difficult to correctly diagnose because no single test or symptom definitively indicates its presence. Instead, doctors must consider family history and other risk factors when making their diagnosis.
Some of the significant symptoms that may indicate schizoaffective disorder can include:
- Delusions – False beliefs that are not based on reality
- Hallucinations – Hearing voices or seeing things that aren’t there
- Disorganized thinking – Difficulty concentrating or organizing thoughts
- Disorganized behavior – Unpredictable behavior such as talking to oneself or inappropriate laughing
- Social withdrawal – Avoiding social activities or contact with others
- Difficulty functioning at work/school – Struggling to complete tasks and participate in activities normally
The exact cause of schizoaffective disorder is unknown. Researchers suggest that a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, chemical imbalances in the brain, or trauma may cause it.
When Do You Need a Schizoaffective Disorder Therapy Program?
If you think you or someone you care about may have schizoaffective disorder, it is important to seek help from a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce future episodes and improve a patient’s quality of life. Some signs that it may be time to seek treatment include:
- Experiencing frequent changes in mood without any apparent reason
- Having trouble concentrating on tasks at work or school
- Feeling consistently overwhelmed
- Feeling hopelessness more often than usual
- Experiencing visual or auditory hallucinations regularly
Once a diagnosis has been made, doctors will recommend an individualized treatment plan based on the type and severity of symptoms experienced. The most common treatments for schizoaffective disorder are medications, psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and support programs. There is hope for those living with schizoaffective disorder, so long as they are willing to seek appropriate treatment and stick to it. Many individuals find significant improvement in their thinking patterns and behavior so long as they get professional treatment and have the support of their loved ones.
If you're ready to start your journey to recovery, we're here to help.
Find Schizoaffective Disorder Treatment in Waltham, MA, at Evoke Waltham
Are you concerned that a loved one may be showing signs of schizoaffective disorder? The experts at Evoke Waltham are standing by to help. Our mental health experts can assess a patient’s condition and determine the proper course of treatment. All our comprehensive mental health treatment plans are customized to each patient’s specific condition and needs as an individual. We offer our Waltham, MA community the opportunity to seek treatment that suits them. Contact us today at 866.276.1920, and we can walk you through our schizoaffective disorder treatment program and other treatment options.
