Schizoaffective Disorder

At Turning Point Centers residential facility in Sandy, Utah, we provide high-quality, affordable treatment for adults age 18 and older who have schizoaffective disorder or schizoaffective disorder and a co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD). Our treatment practices are supported by science, data, and a passion for helping people. Through therapy, personalized support, and medication management as needed, we empower our clients to achieve stability and long-term wellness. 

Signs & Symptoms of Schizoaffective Disorder

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of schizoaffective disorder can be challenging, as they can vary widely from person to person. Because of this, Turning Points’ treatment of this disorder is on a case-by-case basis. Understanding and being able to identify the following indicators is an essential first step in finding out if schizoaffective disorder treatment is right for you. 

There are two main subtypes of schizoaffective disorder: 

  • Bipolar type: The person experiences the symptoms of manic episodes and, sometimes, depressive episodes. 
  • Depressive type: The person experiences the symptoms of depressive episodes. 

 

Symptoms of a manic episode may include: 

  • Finding it difficult to maintain focus or attention 
  • Feeling restless or becoming easily irritated 
  • Taking risks or engaging in potentially harmful actions 
  • Having an inflated sense of self-confidence or superiority 
  • Sleeping very little without feeling fatigued 
  • Speaking more rapidly or frequently than usual 
  • Having a constant stream of fast-paced thoughts 

 

Symptoms of a depressive episode may include: 

 

  • Speaking or moving at a slower pace than usual 
  • Feeling continually fatigued or low on energy 
  • Trouble focusing or making decisions 
  • Thoughts of death or suicide 
  • Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness 
  • Loss of interest in hobbies or activities you once enjoyed 
  • Significant changes in appetite, leading to weight gain or loss 
  • Difficulty falling asleep or sleeping excessively 

 

Usually, when a person is experiencing the symptoms of schizoaffective disorder, they will also have symptoms of psychosis, which can include: 

 

  • Displaying unusual or unpredictable behavior 
  • Showing signs of catatonia, including extreme changes in movement or speech 
  • Exhibiting a lack of emotional expression 
  • Experiencing hallucinations, such as seeing or hearing things that aren’t there 
  • Holding delusions or strongly believing things that are not true 
  • Struggling with clear or organized thinking 

 

Schizoaffective disorder can be a challenging condition to recognize, but if you are experiencing these symptoms, help is available. Reach out to Turning Point Centers’ admissions advisors for expert evaluation, and we will help you figure out if our compassionate care in Sandy, Utah, is right for you. 

Schizoaffective Disorder Causes & Risk Factors

The exact causes of schizoaffective disorder are unknown, but experts believe that it results from a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Having a family history of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or other mental health conditions can increase a person’s likelihood of developing this disorder, as these conditions may be passed down genetically. Imbalances in brain chemicals, particularly dopamine and serotonin, are also thought to play a significant role in the development of symptoms by affecting mood regulation and perception. 

Environmental stressors can be powerful triggers for schizoaffective disorder, especially in individuals who are genetically predisposed to it. Going through a traumatic event, such as the loss of a loved one, abuse, or a significant life change, can contribute to the onset or worsening of symptoms. Chronic stress, which impacts overall mental health, and substance use, particularly during adolescence or early adulthood, are additional risk factors that may trigger or intensify symptoms. 

While these factors do not guarantee that a person will develop schizoaffective disorder, early awareness of these risks can help you recognize potential warning signs in yourself or a loved one. With timely intervention, you can find effective treatment and learn how to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. 

Schizoaffective Disorder Statistics

According to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, text revision (DSM-5-TR), schizoaffective disorder is relatively rare. It affects only 0.3% of people and is about one-third as common as schizophrenia. Typically, people start to display symptoms in early adulthood, but it is possible that symptoms can occur anytime from adolescence to later in life.  

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) states that men and women are diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder at a relatively equal rate; however, men usually start to develop symptoms at an earlier age than women.  

Although this disorder is rare, the staff at our schizoaffective disorder treatment center is committed to researching and understanding this mental health condition so that we can continue to provide high-end care and best practices to help you on your journey to healing. 

Possible Effects of Schizoaffective Disorder

Schizoaffective disorder can affect many areas of a person’s life, including their emotions, relationships, and work. Left untreated, this disorder may cause you to have repeated episodes of psychosis and mood problems, making it hard to manage daily tasks and maintain your relationships. Symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking can make holding a job, going to school, or staying connected with others very difficult. 

Emotionally, people who have schizoaffective disorder may feel hopeless or experience extreme mood swings, making it hard to manage stress or control their feelings. These struggles can lead someone to isolate themselves, as relationships may become strained or distant. In serious cases, the disorder can increase the risk for self-harm or thoughts of suicide, which is why early treatment is so important. 

With care and support from our staff at Turning Point, you can manage your symptoms of schizoaffective disorder and improve your quality of life.  

Schizoaffective Disorder Treatment in Sandy, Utah

We believe that effective treatment for schizoaffective disorder involves a combination of medical oversight, therapy, and, when appropriate, medication to address its complex symptoms. At Turning Point Centers, we provide evidence-based care that is tailored to meet clients’ needs, helping them achieve stability and long-term healing. Our goal is not only to reduce your symptoms but to enhance your quality of life and emotional well-being. 

Before you begin treatment, you will complete a comprehensive assessment with our experienced team. This allows us to understand your unique needs and develop a customized care plan. Your plan may include: 

  • Group therapy: You can take part in multiple daily group therapy sessions led by program managers, therapists, social workers, and behavioral health technicians. These sessions offer a safe space for you to explore your experiences, develop healthy coping strategies, and build connections with others. Topics may include stress management, communication skills, and emotion regulation. 
  • Individual therapy: Conducted at least twice weekly, we provide individual therapy sessions where you can meet one-on-one with a therapist in a confidential setting.  
  • Experiential therapy: Weekly experiential therapy sessions include creative outlets like art and music therapy to support emotional expression and healing. 
  • Family therapy: Family therapy can help clients rebuild trust, improve communication, and strengthen support systems. 

We use a variety of therapeutic methods to treat schizoaffective disorder, including: 

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT can help you identify and change negative patterns of thinking and behavior that may be contributing to your symptoms. 
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Through DBT, you can build skills to regulate your emotions, tolerate stress, and communicate effectively. 
  • Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): ACT encourages mindfulness and acceptance of your emotions while you commit to making meaningful life changes. 

 

Our staff is also trained in trauma-informed care, ensuring that your treatment is delivered in a safe and supportive environment. Your safety and comfort are of the utmost importance to us as we aim to help you reduce your stress and promote emotional balance. We use practices like mindfulness, meditation, and music therapy to help create an environment that is relaxing and therapeutic so that you can focus on becoming the best version of yourself. 

At Turning Point Centers, we believe in taking a holistic approach to care. Our serene Utah residential facility offers a peaceful setting where adults can focus on healing from schizoaffective disorder while being supported by caring clinicians and behavioral health technicians. Through our residential care, partial hospitalization program, and intensive outpatient program, we strive to empower clients to take control of their symptoms and rediscover stability, confidence, and joy. We focus on treating you as a whole person, meaning that we also promote fitness, nutrition, and having fun throughout the healing process. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with schizoaffective disorder, reach out to us today. At Turning Point Centers, we are here to safely guide you every step of the way toward healing. 

This content was written on behalf of and reviewed by the clinical staff at Turning Point Centers. 

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