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Understanding Schizoaffective Disorder

By: Jackie Stephane


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Many mental health conditions can be very difficult to diagnose. One of the disorders that is the most confusing and the most difficult to identify and diagnose is schizoaffective disorder. The easiest way to explain this condition is to explain it by stating that it is when a person has some symptoms of psychosis for roughly two weeks when they are not experiencing any mood changes related to their mood disorder. Sounds confusing, does it not? But what is most important to remember is that the person does not really fit into the schizophrenia category but they do not fit into a mood disorder category like depression or bipolar either.

It can be very difficult to fully understand this condition but it is very important to remember that it can be treated. Most of the time it is treated with an antipsychotic medication such as lithium and it has been found to be very effective. Most doctors feel comfortable giving this medication because it can be used to treat schizophrenia along with mood disorders. So, as you can see, it is really a medication that will help treat any of the conditions and symptoms related to schizoaffective disorder.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with this condition you need to realize that you do have a really good chance of overcoming it with medication. You actually have a better change of overcoming this than you do schizophrenia. However, it is not as easy to treat as a normal mood disorder like bipolar disorder. All concerns and questions should definitely be discussed with your doctor. This can help you fully understand what you are dealing with and it can decrease any anxiety you may be having.

There is really no distinguishing between races when it comes to this disorder. But, for some reason, women tend to suffer from it more than men. This really does create new challenges related to treatment options. Another thing to keep in mind is that most women begin showing traits related to this condition at a later age than the men who suffer from it.

As you can see, this condition really is difficult to understand. It might take a long time for a professional to finally diagnosis someone with schizoaffective disorder. There may be a period of time when the person is diagnosed with a mood disorder or a psychotic disorder such as schizophrenia before a more accurate diagnosis is given. This can be very frustrating for the patient as well as family members. It is best to remain patient with the professionals who are working with you. Just remember that they want to help you.

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CNS Network is Southern California’s leading clinical research organization, specializing in the testing of new medications and treatments for various disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, insomnia, Alzheimer’s Disease, migraines, and epilepsy. For more information please visit www.cnstrial.com

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