Schizoaffective is a condition which is a combination of schizophrenia and mood disorder. Individuals suffering from schizoaffective disorder are usually diagnosed with manic depression. This disorder is more common among women rather than men. Men suffering from it tend to be more antisocial and show such behaviour. Whereas in women its onset is in later ages and reason for this is still unknown. As much as 1% of the population of the world is affected by this condition. There are several factors which contribute to it such as viral infections, birth complications, abnormalities in neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. This disorder could be either genetic or by birth or childhood.
General Causes of this Disorder
- Hereditary
- Brain chemistry by disorders of Serotonin and/or dopamine which are neurotransmitters
- Psychological and surrounding factors.
Sign and Symptoms of the Disorder:
- Paranoid thoughts and ideas.
- Delusions.
- Audio and Visual Hallucinations.
- Confused thoughts.
- Depression.
- Strange thoughts and imaginations.
- Manic disorder and irritability
- Lack of attention and memory problems
- Problems in sleeping
- Improper care about cleanliness and physical appearance.
- Unorganised behaviour
Treatment of Schizoaffective Disorder is available which would help people from getting traumatized by any such symptoms. The treatments can of of varying types such as:
- Medications
- Psychotherapy
- Self-help
- Hospitalization
People who say “I hear voices” which are not heard by others should not be taken lightly rather timely and proper care could save the person’s life from being a mess. This condition when not addressed on time could lead to severe conditions. Sufferers undergoing treatments have high possibility of getting relapses but if the family is supportive enough them this relapses can be reduced to less than 10%. Concluding this article with proper treatment and support we can help such sufferers in coping up with the condition.
