Schizoaffective Disorder

Question 1

What is schizoaffective disorder?

Answer 1

It is mood disorder. It is an illness that is characterized by a combination of symptoms of schizophrenia and a mood disorder.

Question 2

What characterizes a person with schizoaffective disorder?

Answer 2

1. Primary symptoms of schizophrenia (delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech and behavior)
2. Symptoms of major depression or manic episode

Question 3

What are the two subtypes of schizoaffective disorder?

Answer 3

1. Depressive subtype

2. Bipolar subtype

Question 4

What is the depressive subtype of schizoaffective disorder marked by?

Answer 4

Major depressive episodes (depression only)

Question 5

What is the bipolar subtype of schizoaffective disorder marked by?

Answer 5

Manic episodes, with/without depressive symptoms or episodes (manic and/or depressive)

Question 6

How long do symptoms need to last in order to get a diagnosis for schizoaffective disorder?

Answer 6

2+ weeks

Question 7

What are the treatments for schizoaffective disorder?

Answer 7

Atypical psychotics
CBT
Psychotherapy
Social-skills therapy
Long-term treatment for stabilization

Question 8

What are the common side effects of medications for schizoaffective disorder?

Answer 8

Nausea, weight gain, increased risk for diabetes, sexual problems