Schizoaffective Disorder is a psychological disease with both psychotic and mood disorder features. It tends to be more common in women than in men, but, is a less common diagnosis than Schizophrenia.
Most sufferers of Schizoaffective Disorder begin to experience symptoms in early adulthood. Due to the severity of the disease, there tend to be problems with occupations and social relationships due to the disease. Those with the disease tend to show an increased risk of suicidal and self mutilating behavior.
Heredity can be a factor. Evidence has shown that for parents with Schizoaffective Disorder, the risk for their child developing Schizophrenia later in life is higher than that of someone who does not have a parent with Schizoaffective Disorder. Those with relatives who suffer from Schizoaffective Disorder, are also at more of a risk to develop a mood disorder (Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, etc).
Prognosis for those with the disorder is better for those who suffer from the Bipolar Subtype. Also, if a stressor or event related to the disorder is present, prognosis is improved over those who lack any related stressors or events.
Below is a list of links to "youtube" videos of people discussing their personal struggles with Schizoaffective Disorder. It's important to remember that these people are suffering from the disease, and are only giving their personal opinions and takes on what it's like to be afflicted with Schizoaffective Disorder. These people are not doctors. For more information on the diagnosis and treatment of Schizoaffective disorder, please contact a Psychologist or Psychiatrist.
- Video # 1
- Video # 2
- Video # 3
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Site Created by Adam Zimmer
atzimmer1@catamount.wcu.edu
2008