Schizoaffective Disorder

[MunchBox]

I'm currently in IP and have been there for more than a month. I noticed on one of my notes that my diagnosis is Schizoaffective Disorder. Has anyone else got this?
Sorry, I don't really know what I want from this thread, I'm just a bit upset that I've got another label, it's making me feel somewhat suicidal every time I think about it. Ugh, I'm sorry. Some personal experiences would be nice.

Thanks.

[Aubergine]

Hi. :)

I have the depressive type of schizoaffective disorder (there is also the bipolar type - I don't have abnormal mood swings or experiece mania or mixed episodes) and I've had the diagnosis for about 7 years now.

To begin with, it was hard. I was in and out of hospital lots and didn't know how to manage myself effectively. Eventually though, with CBT, lots of psychoeducation and support, and a good medication combination, I learnt how to cope with it without a crisis occuring.

I now work part-time, have no input from the CMHT, socialise, live independently and have a good relationship with my family. I haven't hurt myself for over a year. It's still not easy, I won't lie. I still have days where I feel scared and where it threatens to win, but those days are manageable as long as I do the things that work for me.

I do understand how scary getting the diagnosis can be. I was in hospital when I found out mine and it was a nightmare. It's not the end of the world though. There is always hope and with the right intervention, you can lead a good life. :)

[out_of_here]

I have schizoaffective as well. Bipolar type, in mania you can feel so euphoric, but mostly just end up with embarassment and sometimes guilt for actions you took when manic. Mixed episodes might be the most dangerous episodes for me because I am so wired with all this agitated energy but also depressed and I can become a serious danger to myself.

I hear several voices, that vary from telling me how much of a failure i am or that I am a piece of sh*t, then a commentary of what I am doing, I somtimes see things I call them the shadow people, I also see patterns in reflected light where there is no light, like strange floating things.

I've been in and out of hospital since the diagnosis, trying to get medications right.

[random.swirls]

I don't have schizoaffective but know several people who do all of whom are living a 'normal' life now having basically recovered.

One thing to say is that a diagnosis does bring changes but ultimately it doesn't change you

[MunchBox]

Thank you for the replies, I'm starting to understand my diagnosis more and stop worrying.

Also, Cam, your last sentence is spot on, thanks again. <3

[Epicene]

One of my good friends has this as their diagnosis, and over time she has been able to cope without mental health services or medication. She found that their involvement made things worse, and instead built up a network of helpful relationships and slowly worked towards her ideal job. She still experiences symptoms and every few months has mini 'freak outs' due to the constant effort of trying to filter out what is real and what isn't, but compared to where she used to be she is basically living a normal life. I know hearing that might sound daunting considering that you're currently IP and probably feeling quite bleak, but just wanted to share a positive story.

[not_so_insig]

I used to have this diagnosis - the depressive type, but they changed my diagnosis to schizophrenia. They didnt change my meds, except I took myself off the antidepressants about 5 years ago because I didnt think I needed it.

[Ballerina123]

I have a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder and i find it really hard to manage. However i have learnt it's more about learning to live with the symptoms rather than concentrating on the diagnosed illness. As long as your symptoms are managed you will do well.

try not to get too bogged go down with diagnosis. It's not worth it. I did it for years and realised it's more about managing symptoms rather than what diagnosis you have.
Be kind to your self and learn to manage your symptoms and and you'll be fine.
I will you all the best and hope you get out of hospital soon because I now how depressing it is x

[MunchBox]

Thanks guys, your replies mean a lot. I'm adjusting to the diagnosis now and with the personal accounts on here and articles I've read I'm starting to understand why I've been diagnosed with it.

Thanks Kate, I'll try to be kind to myself and learn to manage.

Thanks again.

[Pi.R^2]

I do not have schizoaffective, but wanted to leave some general supportive vibes here for you!

Hope things are going OK.

[MunchBox]

Thanks, Jenna. I will gladly take some supportive vibes.

<3