I'm bipolar1 and schizo affective, how do i know what symptoms are taking place if both conditions are similar ?

Multiple issues: Very complex issues since you have a serious mixed mood diosorder , personality disorder and a psychaitric illness. You will need a team approach to your mental health: psyhaitry, psychology, support groups and a social worker.

UP, down, In BeTWEeN: Sometimes you might not know.You'll need some loved ones or friends to help you out if you get too far gone. That means to a doctor.Otherwise,the bipolar is either hyped-up or slowed-down,with thoughts to match. The schizo thoughts are either disorganized or flat or bizarre and you might think you hear voices.Your medications are very important,as well as a healthy lifestyle. Don't stop your meds!

Schizoaffective: Schizoaffective disorder is an extremely serious illness that can be thought of as a combination of schizophrenic (psychosis) and bipolar disorder (the old term being manic depression) with involves extreme mood swings.