Premier Treatment For Schizoaffective Disorder in Dartmouth, Massachusetts

Learn more about schizoaffective disorder treatment at Southcoast Behavioral Health Hospital in Dartmouth, MA

Schizoaffective disorder, a rare condition that is classified as a schizophrenia spectrum disorder, is a mental illness that includes both psychotic symptoms and disturbances in one’s mood. The episodes of psychosis, which resemble those experienced by people suffering from schizophrenia, can make it quite difficult to determine what is real and what is not. Additionally, the mood disturbances, which can come in the form of either mania or depressive episodes, can lead to a great deal of emotional strife that can be overwhelmingly distressing. Individuals battling this serious mental illness require treatment in order to stabilize their varying mental states so that any potential risks or possibility of harm can be successful prevented or avoided all together.

As a premier provider of impatient treatment, Southcoast Behavioral Health is where those suffering from schizoaffective disorder can heal. The proven effective therapeutic interventions utilized significantly improve the lives of patients, and the dedicated staff of professionals care for each person who comes for care with the utmost compassionate and respect. When an individual comes to Southcoast Behavioral Health, he or she will receive the best and most appropriate services to meet each one of his or her unique treatment needs.

Helping a loved one or family member get treatment for schizoaffective disorder

Schizoaffective disorder has the ability to cause insurmountable emotional strife in a person’s life when it remains untreated. Those closest to an individual grappling with this condition may become concerned and worried about what the future holds for the person they care about, and may even be unsure as to what role they can play in helping their loved one. The following steps are those that can be taken by friends and family members of a person with schizoaffective disorder so that the much-needed treatment can be identified and ultimately received:

• Learn all that can be learned about schizoaffective disorder and become aware of the symptoms of this condition.
• Determine a plan of action with other friends and family members who can assist in deciding when your loved one may need more immediate and intensive treatment. This is sometimes referred to as a safety plan, and can help you feel more prepared in the event your loved one appears to need emergent mental health services.
• Learn about providers of mental health services in your area, and pay close attention to hospitals that provide inpatient programming. Inpatient treatment is a great option for a person who is suffering from psychotic symptoms, as this form of treatment can supply the stabilizing care needed to help your loved one if he or she needs it.
• Be supportive of your loved one. He or she is likely experiencing a great deal of emotional upheaval since he or she is battling psychosis and mood disturbances. By being supportive and understanding at the same time, your loved one will know that he or she can rely on you for help in the even he or she requires your assistance.
• Lastly, it is a good idea to consult with mental health professionals to learn what you can do to help your loved one. These professionals can advise you on how to encourage your loved one to adhere to treatment recommendations and utilize the skills he or she has learned in treatment.

Why consider treatment for schizoaffective disorder at Southcoast Behavioral Health Hospital in Dartmouth, MA

The consequences that can arise should an individual not receive care for the symptoms of schizoaffective disorder can be devastating. The psychotic symptoms and mood disturbances that are cornerstone to this condition can make daily functioning rather difficult and hinder a person in a myriad of settings. If a person does not experience chronic unemployment, that individual’s ability to perform well at work could be compromised and result in job loss. One’s social life can also be adversely impacted, as those who suffering from schizoaffective disorder may not be able to establish healthy relationships with others. And because those suffering from this condition can eventually be diagnosed with bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, or schizophrenia, depending on the longevity and severity of psychotic and mood disturbances present, the mental and emotional wellbeing of a person can worsen and diminish over time. Substance abuse and the onset of anxiety disorder symptoms can also begin to emerge, which could further prevent an individual from living a healthy life. Thankfully, there are programs that exist that can help those battling schizoaffective disorder; programs that provide the stabilizing care needed to successfully manage the symptoms of this perilous condition.