How to Recognize Impaired Emotional Functioning and Minimize Symptoms
What Is Flat Affect?
Flat affect indicates the diminished expression of emotion.
Flat affect is a hallmarksymptom of schizophrenia, although it may also affect those with other conditions.
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This extremely limited range of expressions occurs even in situations that would normally seem very exciting or very sad.
Flat affect is more common among men than women and is often present during the onset of schizophrenia.
More often than not, flat affect is an underlying symptom of several conditionsnot just schizophrenia.
It may even be a side-effect of certain medications, includingantidepressants.
Treatment for Flat Affect
Treatment for flat affect often depends on the underlying cause.
Flat affect can be treated to some degree.
It often requires comprehensive therapy, including working with a healthcare provider and taking medication.
Typical antipsychotics function by blocking receptors for dopamine.
It’s much more than dealing with a loved one who tends to be “cold.”
It’s not a personality trait.
The brain and body are not connecting.
Gathering information can help you better understand what to expect and what you could do to help.
Sharing your experiences and challenges can help you process your emotions and give you encouragement and hope.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many of the conditions that cause flat affect can be treated.
For some people, this can mean that their ability to express emotions can be restored.
In other cases, treatment can help improve symptoms of flat affect or even prevent it from occurring.
Constricted affect causes a diminished level of intensity and variability in how emotions are displayed.
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