What is Schizoaffective Disorder? The initial diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder can be somewhat confusing. Many patients and loved ones wonder, “What does this mean?” “How is this different from schizophrenia?” We're here to break it down for you. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) Schizoaffective Disorder is classified as: An uninterrupted period of illness during which a Major Mood Episode (Major Depressive or Manic) is present in conjunction with Criterion A of Schizophrenia. Major Depressive Episode must include Criterion A1. Depressed mood. Delusions or hallucinations for 2 or more weeks in the absence of a Major Mood Episode (Depressive or Manic) throughout the duration of the illness. Symptoms that meet the criteria for a Major Mood Episode are present for most of the total duration of the active and residual portions of the illness. The disorder is not attributable to the effects of a substance or other medical condition. I'm sure you're thinking that you're more confused now than when you started but don't worry! This means that the person has symptoms of schizophrenia and also has symptoms of a mood disorder such as major depression and/or mania. Some describe schizoaffective disorder as schizophrenia with bipolar disorder. While it's a little more complicated than that, it's a good overall generalization of the disorder. Symptoms of schizophrenia include hallucinations such as hearing voices and seeing things that are not there, delusions, disorganized speech, disorganized or catatonic behavior, and decreased or lack of speech, movement, or emotion. Along with these symptoms the patient will have periods of depression (disinterest in… middle of the paper… there don't seem to be any numbers out there. If anyone is seeing relapse rates for Schizoaffective Disorder, email us! However, it appears to be agreed that a relapse can and is more likely to occur if medications are not taken is one of the reasons why it is extremely important to ensure that the patient continues to take the prescribed medications. No medications should ever be stopped without speaking to the doctor. Remember, your doctor has your best interest at heart, so it is important to keep him or her updated on your situation. Symptoms of a relapse will be the same as the symptoms of the first episode If they come back, contact your doctor immediately. Don't let a relapse discourage you. There will always be obstacles, but the important thing is to keep pushing forward.