Schizoaffective Disorder (cont.)

Treatment for schizoaffective disorder typically involves medication to stabilize the mood and treat the psychotic symptoms. In addition, psychotherapy (a type of counseling) and skills training may be useful for improving interpersonal, social and coping skills.

• Medication: The choice of medication depends on the mood disorder associated with the illness. The primary medications used to treat the psychotic symptoms associated with schizophrenia, such as delusions, hallucinations and disordered thinking, are called antipsychotics. The mood-related symptoms may be treated with an antidepressant medication or a mood stabilizer such as lithium. These medications may or may not be used in combination with an antipsychotic medication.
• Psychotherapy: The goal of therapy is to help the patient learn about the illness, establish goals and manage everyday problems related to the disorder. Family therapy can help families deal more effectively with a loved one who has schizoaffective disorder, enabling them to better help their loved one.
• Skills training: This generally focuses on work and social skills, grooming and hygiene, and other day-to-day activities, including money and home management.
• Hospitalization: Most people with schizoaffective disorder are treated as outpatients. However, people with particularly severe symptoms, or those in danger of hurting themselves or others may require hospitalization to stabilize their conditions.

There is no cure for schizoaffective disorder, but treatment has been shown to be effective in minimizing the symptoms, and in helping the person better cope with the disorder and improve social functioning.

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Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/schizoaffective_disorder/article.htm