Schizoaffective disorder includes symptoms of both schizophrenia and significant mood episodes (depression or bipolar-type). This combination can feel confusing, but it is highly manageable with the right treatment plan.

What schizoaffective disorder can feel like

Common symptoms include:

• Hallucinations or delusions

• Periods of depression, mania, or both

• Changes in sleep, energy, or motivation

• Difficulty concentrating or organizing thoughts

• Emotional swings that feel intense or unpredictable

• Social withdrawal or feeling disconnected

• Challenges maintaining routines, work, or relationships

Symptoms often vary over time, and treatment is tailored to the mix of mood and psychotic features.

How treatment can help

Treatment often includes:

• Medications targeting both mood symptoms and psychosis

• Stabilization of sleep and daily rhythms

• Support with stress, emotional regulation, and coping

• Education about managing mood episodes and early warning signs

• Coordination with therapy for skills, structure, and support

With consistent care, many people achieve stable mood and reduced psychotic symptoms.

How BLT Tele Psychiatry supports schizoaffective disorder

At BLT Tele Psychiatry:

• We take a thoughtful, integrated approach to both mood and psychotic symptoms

• We tailor medication plans to your specific pattern of episodes

• We monitor for mood shifts and adjust treatment proactively

• We coordinate care with therapists or other providers when needed

• We emphasize long-term stability and improved day-to-day functioning

All care is virtual and available to adults in New York State.

If mood symptoms and psychosis are disrupting your daily life, treatment can help you regain stability and balance.