North Port’s Leading Schizoaffective Disorder Treatment Center

Schizoaffective disorder can cause people to suffer from a combination of psychotic and mood-related symptoms, depending on whether they have the bipolar or depressive type of schizoaffective disorder. It may cause a person to experience psychotic symptoms such as: 

• Hallucinations, like hearing or seeing things that aren’t real 
• Delusions, which are strongly held false beliefs 
• Trouble organizing their thoughts  
• Difficulty separating what is real from what isn’t 

Schizoaffective disorder can also cause a person to experience a wide range of mood-related symptoms. These symptoms vary widely from person to person but may include: 

• Extreme feelings of sadness 
• Loss of interest in things they once enjoyed 

On the other hand, people who have the bipolar type of schizoaffective disorder may display symptoms including:  

• Manic episodes during which they feel extremely happy, full of energy, or irritable, followed by periods of depression  
• Impulsive or risk-taking behavior 
• Pulling away from friends or family 
• Having trouble with daily activities, like work or school 
• Loss of interest in taking care of themselves 

If you or someone you love is showing symptoms of schizoaffective disorder, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional as soon as possible to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment. Schizoaffective disorder can be challenging to navigate, but at North Port Behavioral Health, we are here to provide expert care and support. 

The exact causes of schizoaffective disorder aren’t fully known, but research suggests that a combination of factors can play a role. Having a family history of mental health conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder has been shown to increase a person’s risk for developing schizoaffective disorder. Chemical imbalances in the brain and changes in a person’s brain structure or function can also play a role because they can affect the person’s mood and perceptions. 

In addition to a person’s genetics and biology, environmental factors have been known to increase the likelihood that a person will struggle with schizoaffective disorder. Experiencing stressful events, like abuse or the loss of a loved one, can trigger a person’s symptoms. Long-term stress can also harm a person’s mental health. Finally, if a person abuses substances like alcohol or drugs, especially during their teen years or early adulthood, their risk for having schizoaffective disorder can increase. 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), schizoaffective disorder is relatively rare and affects only about 0.3% of the population in the United States. Schizoaffective disorder is diagnosed equally in men and women, but men tend to develop it earlier, often in their late teens or early 20s. Women are more likely to be diagnosed later, often in their 30s.  

Statistically, schizoaffective disorder is less commonly diagnosed than schizophrenia and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder. However, because symptoms of schizoaffective disorder can overlap with symptoms of other conditions, diagnosing it is more challenging.  

When schizoaffective disorder is left untreated, it can lead to a variety of personal challenges, such as: 

• Worsening symptoms: Hallucinations, delusions, and confused thinking can become severe, making it hard for a person to manage their daily life. 
• Trouble with daily activities: A person may have difficulty concentrating or managing their emotions, which can lead to problems at work, school, or home. 
• Social isolation: People may withdraw from their friends and family, leading to a lack of support systems and strained or broken relationships. 
• Other mental health concerns: Untreated schizoaffective disorder can increase a person’s risk for depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. 
• Physical health concerns: Lack of motivation or energy can cause a person to neglect their basic needs, like eating properly and going to the doctor. 
• Higher risk for self-harm or suicide: Extreme mood changes can increase a person’s risk for suicidal thoughts or actions. 

Early schizoaffective disorder treatment can help a person manage their symptoms better, so it’s important to seek treatment as soon as it becomes evident that it is needed. You don’t have to face schizoaffective disorder alone. With expert guidance from the compassionate staff at our schizoaffective disorder treatment center, you can begin the journey to improving your mental and overall health today.  

Schizoaffective disorder treatment usually includes a mix of therapy, medication, and support that can help people manage their symptoms with more ease. Common treatments include:  

• Medication: If needed, a doctor may prescribe medication such as antipsychotics (to help with hallucinations or delusions), mood stabilizers (for bipolar symptoms), or antidepressants (for depression). At North Port Behavioral Health, whether medication is included as part of a person’s care plan is always up to the individual. 
• Evidence-based therapies: A variety of therapeutic modalities can help people who have schizoaffective disorder better manage their emotions, improve their personal relationships, and cope with everyday challenges.  
• Group therapy sessions: The symptoms of schizoaffective disorder can make people feel isolated. Connecting with people who have had similar experiences can provide an environment of understanding and encouragement. 
• Family therapy: Family involvement can be an important part of a person’s healing journey. Participating in family therapy can lead to a better support system at home and improved relationships with loved ones. 

For it to be most effective, schizoaffective disorder treatment should be personalized to the individual. At North Port Behavioral Health, we collaborate with each patient to figure out what combination of treatment options is best for their unique needs. 

Schizoaffective disorder treatment at North Port Behavioral Health may include group therapy and family therapy. Our staff incorporates evidence-based methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which have been shown to help people who are struggling with schizoaffective disorder. We also focus on a person’s holistic wellness and long-term health, and we provide individualized aftercare plans to support our patients long after they have left treatment. 

Located in North Port, Florida, North Port Behavioral Health is committed to providing those entrusted to our care with evidence-based, tailored treatment for schizoaffective disorder. When you choose our treatment center, you are choosing a long-term partner in health. Our care team is dedicated to supporting you every step of your healing journey. Our goal is not only to reduce your current symptoms, but to enhance your future quality of life. 

At North Port Behavioral Health, we have designed our treatment center to be a peaceful, welcoming setting where our patients can seek relaxation and restoration. Here, you can step away from the everyday pressures of life and focus solely on improving your mental health. If you or someone you love is struggling with schizoaffective disorder, we are here with expert guidance and care to support you.