Cause of Schizophrenia

While the cause of schizophrenia remains unknown, researchers believe several factors contribute to cause individuals to have schizophrenia.

Studies show that causes of schizophrenia likely include:

• Genetics
• Chemical changes in a person's body
• Environmental factors

Genetic Cause of Schizophrenia

Genetics are believed to be a cause of schizophrenia because twins have a high probability of both developing schizophrenia if one has it.

While there is no physical test that can determine whether a person will have schizophrenia, scientists believe a gene relating to socialization may have an impact on whether a person will develop schizophrenia. The "shy gene" alone is not a cause of schizophrenia, but is believed to be a factor.

Developmental Cause of Schizophrenia

Chemical changes in a person's body during puberty are also believed to be a cause of schizophrenia, since schizophrenia most often begins at that point in life.

Again, the changes that take place at the onset of puberty are not solely a cause of schizophrenia, but are believed to have an impact along with other factors.

Environmental Cause of Schizophrenia

When researchers talk about an environmental cause of schizophrenia, they define "environment" as including many things, including social, nutritional, hormonal and chemical factors.

Environmental stressors early in development - even during pregnancy - are believed to lead to small changes in the brain that can be a cause of schizophrenia as the individual develops.

During early childhood and adolescence, environmental factors such as severe stress or viral infections can damage the brain further and are believed to be a cause of schizophrenia. Factors as diverse as vitamin use, education and drug abuse can all contribute as a cause of schizophrenia.

Likewise, environmental factors can reduce the expression of genetic defects and decrease the risk of schizophrenia.

Addressing Causes of Schizophrenia

Because genetic and environmental factors typically jointly predispose an individual to schizophrenia, creating the right environment may help prevent a person from developing schizophrenia.

Taking preventive steps is especially important for those with a family history of schizophrenia. An emotionally nurturing home life is no guarantee, but can help ensure that an individual who is predisposed toward having schizophrenia will never have the disorder. While having a dysfunctional family may not solely be a cause of schizophrenia, studies show that children who grow up in families that are dysfunctional have a higher probability of developing schizophrenia.

Likewise, marijuana and other drugs alone may not be a cause of schizophrenia, but research shows that individuals who are genetically disposed toward having schizophrenia may increase the probability of developing the disorder 1,000% by smoking marijuana.

Helping Someone Find Treatment For Schizophrenia

If you recognize schizophrenia symptoms in someone you know, do something about it. Seek schizophrenia treatment immediately. For help, contact Walden Behavioral Care at 781-647-6700 or Info@waldenbehavioralcare.com.