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By Pedro Linares Manuel
“The mind is a complex universe. When emotions and perceptions mix, what heals the most is understanding.”
He Schizoaffective disorder is a psychotic spectrum condition characterized by psychotic symptoms (delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking) along with mood episodes, whether depressive or manic.
Unlike other disorders, emotional disturbances are deeply intertwined with the psychotic experience, creating a clinical picture complex that requires a specialized approach.
COMMON SYMPTOMS:
- Delusions or firm beliefs that do not correspond to reality.
- Hallucinations, usually auditory.
- Disorganization of thought or difficulty maintaining verbal coherence.
- Depressive episodes (sadness, loss of energy, guilt).
- Manic episodes (excessive energy, irritability, impulsivity, decreased sleep).
- Marked changes in social, work or family functioning.
For diagnosis, psychotic symptoms must be maintained for at least two weeks without mood alterations, differentiating this condition from affective disorders with psychotic features.
DIAGNOSIS:
Requires comprehensive evaluation by professionals mental health:
• Detailed medical history.
• Psychiatric examination.
• Family interviews.
• Evaluation of previous mood episodes and psychosis.
Medical, neurological or substance use causes must be ruled out.
TREATMENT:
Management is interdisciplinary and includes:
• Antipsychotics to reduce psychotic symptoms.
• Mood stabilizers or antidepressants depending on the emotional episode.
• Psychotherapy focused on emotion management, insight and social skills.
• Family psychoeducation to promote understanding and reduce relapses.
• Life habits: stable sleep, stress reduction and healthy communication.
People with schizoaffective disorder They can lead stable and meaningful lives with appropriate support and treatment.
PRACTICAL CHALLENGE:
Practice listening without rushing. When someone shares intense emotions or confusing perceptions, accompany them without immediately correcting them. Feeling understood can be the first step towards stability. Let us remember: the mental health It is strengthened by understanding that behind each symptom there is a story and a human being seeking security.