Causes for Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a complex and dangerous mental disease that is usually characterized by the following symptoms, including:

1. Hallucinations
2. Delusions
3. Disorganized thinking
4. Lack of motivation
5. Slow movement
6. Change in sleep patterns
7. Changes in body language and emotions
8. Trouble focusing

Establishing the possible causes for schizophrenia is important in order to develop the most efficient treatment approaches for those affected by the disease.

What are the Causes for Schizophrenia?

There are a variety of possible causes for schizophrenia such as genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Researchers continue to study the potential reasons for schizophrenia to create a better understanding of the disorder and improve treatment approaches [1][2][3].

Genetic Causes for Schizophrenia

The role of genetic factors in the formation of schizophrenia can hardly be overestimated. It has been shown that individuals with a family background of the illness develop the disorder more easily than those without it. Why is it so? Because particular chromosomes such as the DISC1 chromosome have been identified as directly involved with schizophrenia disorder. But scientists still cannot fully explain how exactly it works. There are ongoing research studies that aim to identify more specific genetic markers and understand their functions [1].

What in the Brain Causes Schizophrenia?

What is going on in the brains of those people that can give a reason for the disorder named schizophrenia? Biological causes for schizophrenia include abnormalities in the activity of brain regions and their size, such as the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus. Also, low or high concentrations of some neurotransmitters, like dopamine and glutamate, may strongly influence the development of schizophrenia [2].

Environmental Causes of Schizophrenia

Environmental factors can also lead to the development of schizophrenia. These include infections, malnutrition, stress, trauma, and abuse. It is for this reason that knowing the different causes of schizophrenia will provide an efficient plan of treatment and early interventions [3].

Social Causes of Schizophrenia

There are also social causes that can impact mental health and provoke the appearance of schizophrenia. These are socioeconomic status, living conditions, and social interactions. Social isolation, discrimination, and lack of access to healthcare are also harmful, especially for people with a predisposition to schizophrenia. Exploring and preventing these social causes is vital in order to provide efficient help and support for people affected by the disorder [1].

Psychological Causes of Schizophrenia

Psychological causes can also play a significant role in the development of schizophrenia. These are high levels of stress and problems with coping mechanisms. People with schizophrenia disorder often have difficulties with maintaining an emotional stability of stress and may be more sensitive to stressors. Addressing these factors through pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches can improve outcomes and speed up the recovery process for those affected by schizophrenia illness [2].

Drug Abuse

Substance abuse may also lead to certain mental disorders, especially schizophrenia. Recent studies have indicated that some individuals may have a risk of developing schizophrenia after using cannabis due to genetic factors. Furthermore, other drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines are equally damaging and potent to the mental condition. Knowing the relationship between substance dependence and schizophrenia is very important to ensure that preventive measures are instituted for the concerned population [3].

Conclusion

Finally, it should be noted that schizophrenia is a complicated illness to deal with since it can be caused by any of the following. These are:

1. Genetic
2. Neurological
3. Environmental
4. Social
5. Psychological

Schizophrenia and causes are still not fully understood by scientists. However, there is a lot of ongoing research that aims to clarify this topic.

In any case, a more critical goal is clarity on how such environmental factors may provoke schizophrenia if effective treatment protocols are to be developed. Most importantly, if you or anyone you know is experiencing any symptoms similar to schizophrenia, please seek medical assistance from a specialist as soon as possible. The results of such treatment could be positive and those suffering from schizophrenia may come back to a habitual daily routine.

Sources

1. [1] “Genetic and environmental influences on schizophrenia” – PubMed
2. [2] “Neurobiology and treatment of schizophrenia” – PubMed
3. [3] “Social and environmental factors in schizophrenia” – PubMed