Treatment for schizoaffective disorders at Lifeskills
Effective treatment for schizoaffective disorder requires a specialized, multidisciplinary approach. At Lifeskills, we use evidence-based therapies — including our cognitive remediation therapy pathway — to address cognitive deficits such as attention, memory, and processing speed. This approach incorporates BrainHQ, an advanced cognitive training program, alongside individual therapy, psychoeducation, and medication management to improve daily functioning. Our master’s-level clinicians create personalized treatment plans to help clients stabilize their mood, reduce psychotic symptoms, and build long-term coping strategies — empowering them to achieve meaningful recovery.
About Schizoaffective Disorder
Schizoaffective disorder is a chronic mental health condition characterized by symptoms of both schizophrenia and mood disorders, such as depression or mania. Schizoaffective disorder is a rare condition affecting about 0.3% of Americans — most often diagnosed between ages 25 and 35 — and occurs more frequently in women than men.
Schizoaffective disorder affects about 0.3% of Americans, or 3 in every 1,000 people.
Questions about schizoaffective disorder
What is schizoaffective disorder?
Schizoaffective disorder is a complex mental health condition that combines symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and disorganized thinking, with mood disorder symptoms, including depression or mania. Its overlapping characteristics often lead to misdiagnosis.The disorder has two subtypes: depressive type, involving major depressive episodes without mania, and bipolar type, which includes both depressive and manic episodes. Unlike schizophrenia, mood symptoms in schizoaffective disorder persist for extended periods, while psychotic symptoms tend to occur in shorter episodes. Proper diagnosis and specialized treatment are essential for effective management and long-term stability.
What are the signs and symptoms of schizoaffective disorder?
Schizoaffective disorder presents with a mix of psychotic symptoms alongside mood disturbances like depression or mania. Individuals may experience unpredictable behavior, cognitive difficulties, and mood swings that persist for extended periods.
Psychotic Symptoms (from schizophrenia):
- Delusions – False beliefs not based on reality, such as paranoia or grandiosity.
- Hallucinations – Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren’t there.
- Disorganized thinking – Difficulty organizing thoughts, leading to confused speech.
- Disorganized or abnormal motor behavior – Unpredictable movements or lack of response.
Mood Symptoms (from mood disorders):
- Depressive episodes – Persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest.
- Manic or hypomanic episodes (in bipolar type) – Elevated mood, impulsivity, and high energy.
While the exact cause is unknown, research suggests that a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors is involved. Brain structure abnormalities, traumatic experiences, substance use, and family history of mental illness may contribute to its development.
For a schizoaffective disorder diagnosis, an individual must experience both psychotic and mood symptoms either simultaneously or at different times. Treatment typically includes a combination of antipsychotic medications, mood stabilizers or antidepressants, and evidence-based therapies to help manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.
When should I seek help for schizoaffective disorder?
If you or a loved one experiences persistent psychotic symptoms, extreme mood swings, or difficulty with daily functioning, seek help for schizoaffective disorder. Warning signs include withdrawal, disorganized thinking, or challenges with work, school, or relationships. Early intervention is crucial, as untreated schizoaffective disorder can worsen over time. If symptoms are interfering with quality of life, professional treatment — such as therapy and medication — can provide stability and improve long-term outcomes. If there is a risk of self-harm or harm to others, seek immediate medical attention.
At Lifeskills, we offer specialized care tailored to individual needs, combining therapy, medication management, and comprehensive support. Reach out today to speak with our team and learn how we can help you or your loved one achieve lasting recovery.
Our Levels of Care
At Lifeskills, we offer a comprehensive continuum of care to support individuals at every stage of their recovery journey. Our levels of care include detoxification, residential treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and transitional living programs, each tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.
