How to Respond to Changes in Symptoms^✱

If the person you are caring for starts exhibiting changes in symptoms, alert his or her doctor immediately. In some cases, changes in symptoms can indicate relapse.

Changes in psychotic symptoms

When a person living with schizoaffective disorder experiences a psychotic symptom, it may be a sign that the person is having a psychotic episode or relapse. If you notice a change in symptoms, alert a healthcare professional and get help. Psychotic symptoms include:

Delusions—When a person with schizoaffective disorder has a delusion, they strongly believe in something that is clearly not real or true. Don’t try to prove the person wrong or reason with them.

Hallucinations—With hallucinations, a person is hearing, seeing, feeling, tasting, or smelling something that you will not experience. A common hallucination for people with schizoaffective disorder is hearing voices that tell them what to do. Don’t try to discuss whether or not a hallucination exists or go along with them.

Disorganized speech—This speech with ongoing, rambling talk and incomplete thoughts often doesn’t make any sense. Words seem tossed around randomly. Don’t try to unravel what the person is saying or ask questions, as that can increase frustration.

Approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.^✱Please discuss your symptoms with your healthcare professional. He or she will review your symptoms and may consult the established guidelines, which are available in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, where applicable.

Changes in mood symptoms

People living with schizoaffective disorder may experience changes in mood, which means they are having emotions or feelings that they would not normally have. If you notice a change in symptoms, alert a healthcare professional and get help. Mood symptoms include:

Mania—An emotional “high” that may be expressed by:

racing thoughts and speech
inflated self-esteem
decreased need for sleep
working nonstop
spending sprees
risky actions, such as gambling or sex with many partners

Depression—An emotional “low” that may be expressed by:

feelings of sadness or emptiness
feelings of worthlessness
tearfulness
weight loss or change in appetite
feeling tired or a loss of energy
loss of concentration or ability to make decisions

NOTE: Many people with schizoaffective disorder seem to lack motivation. They may stay in bed too long, stop bathing, or neglect their appearance. As a caregiver, it’s important to understand that this behavior is part of the disease and is not your loved one’s fault. However, any changes in these behaviors or signs of the symptoms above are reason to call the doctor immediately. If you have any questions, discuss them with a member of the Treatment Team.