Schizoaffective disorder

Psychiatrists use the term "schizoaffective disorder" to describe people who have prominent features of both depression or bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. It's not known if schizoaffective disorder is a unique, distinct illness or just a combination of mood disorder and schizophrenia. Research is ongoing to better resolve this question.

In schizoaffective disorder, it's important to treat both components of the disorder. Treatment usually includes:

• Antidepressants
• Mood-stabilizing medications such as lithium
• Antipsychotic medications
• Ongoing counseling and psychotherapy