October 2022

What is Schizoaffective Disorder?

A serious and chronic mental health condition schizoaffective disorder is where a person suffers from a combination of symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations and delusions; as well as a mood disorder such as depression and mania.  It is difficult to say exactly how many people are affected by the disorder, as it is often misdiagnosed as symptoms are very similar to conditions such as depression, bipolar and schizophrenia.  Left untreated it can be very difficult for people to function on a daily basis without help and support.  People with the disorder are often at a higher risk of social isolation, family conflicts, substance abuse and anxiety disorder.  This can lead to serious health problems, unemployment, financial problems and homelessness.

Causes

As with many serious mental health conditions there is no known singular cause for schizoaffective disorder, it is however believed that both genetics and

What is Schizotypal Personality Disorder?

A personality disorder which is defined as odd or eccentric, people with this condition have intense discomfort with social situations and intimate relationships.  Schizotypal personality disorder is a distressing condition, as sufferers have difficulty making friends or having physical relationships which can leave them feeling isolated and alone.  They have unusual thoughts, speech patterns, behaviours and beliefs, and are often distrustful, suspicious and paranoid.  The condition is more common in men than women and not usually diagnosed till early adulthood.

Causes

As with most personality disorders it is believed that the cause is a mixture of biological, genetic and environmental factors.  These can include things like genes you inherit from your parents or chemical imbalances or changes in the brain.

People with a family history of schizophrenia or paranoia are often more at risk of developing the disorder.  Almost half of the people who do