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The main difference is in how mood symptoms present. While schizophrenia primarily involves hallucinations, disorganized thoughts and speech, schizoaffective disorder combines these schizophrenia symptoms with significant mood episodes.

In schizoaffective disorder, people experience either
• Bipolar type - with manic Show Full Answer

The main difference is in how mood symptoms present. While schizophrenia primarily involves hallucinations, disorganized thoughts and speech, schizoaffective disorder combines these schizophrenia symptoms with significant mood episodes.

In schizoaffective disorder, people experience either:
• Bipolar type - with manic episodes and sometimes depression
• Depressive type - with depressive episodes only

A key distinction is that in schizoaffective disorder, psychosis can occur even when mood symptoms aren't present. Treatment approaches also differ between the conditions. While both use antipsychotic medications, schizoaffective disorder typically requires additional treatments like antidepressants or mood stabilizers to address the mood symptoms.

Research suggests that people with schizoaffective disorder may have a slightly better long-term outlook compared to those with schizophrenia, though more research is needed to understand why.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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