What Causes Schizophrenia?
The exact causes of schizophrenia are not yet established, but it likely involves a combination of factors such as genetics, adverse early experiences, and brain changes.
Schizophrenia can affect anyone, with symptoms typically emerging in late adolescence or early adulthood. Despite extensive research, misconceptions about the condition and its causes persist, complicating the lives of those affected.
Whether you or a loved one is living with schizophrenia, understanding potential contributing factors can provide insight into this mental health condition, which affects nearly 1% of the U.S. population and around 20 million people worldwide.
Causes of Schizophrenia
While research is ongoing, there is no consensus on the exact causes of schizophrenia. It is believed to result from a combination of factors rather than a single cause.
The most understood potential causes include genetic and environmental factors. Having other mental health conditions may also contribute, but this is not always the case.
Some factors thought to contribute to schizophrenia include:
- Genetics and biology
- Environmental influences
- Brain changes
Genetic and Biological Causes
Does schizophrenia run in families? Not always. However, genetics may play an important role in its development, although no specific gene has been identified.
Having a family history of schizophrenia increases the risk:
- A first-degree relative with schizophrenia raises the risk by about 13%.
- An identical twin with schizophrenia increases the likelihood to around 44%.
Most people related to someone with schizophrenia do not develop the condition, suggesting that environmental factors also play a role.
Environmental Causes
Certain environmental factors are associated with a higher risk of developing schizophrenia. These factors may interact with genetic predispositions, increasing the likelihood of the condition.
Environmental factors linked to schizophrenia include:
- Childhood trauma
- Birth and pregnancy complications
- Maternal age (younger than 19 and older than 40)
- Social isolation
- Migration
- Urban upbringing far from green spaces
- High potency cannabis use
Some experts theorize that the coexistence of multiple factors might contribute to early-onset schizophrenia.
Brain Changes
Advancements in technology, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), have allowed doctors to study brain activity in real time. Studies have noted changes in brain structure, including both white and gray matter, in people with schizophrenia.
For example, some people with schizophrenia have larger fluid-filled cavities (ventricles) in the brain. Other observed changes include:
- Reduced volume of the temporal lobes
- Altered white matter connections in the temporal and frontal lobes
- Decreased overall brain size
These findings are not conclusive, and it remains unclear if these brain changes cause schizophrenia or are a result of the condition. Brain changes are typically minor and may not be present in everyone with schizophrenia.
Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions
Research indicates that individuals with schizophrenia may be more likely to develop symptoms of other mental health conditions. Living with other conditions might increase the chances of developing schizophrenia symptoms. These include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Dissociative disorders
How is Schizophrenia Diagnosed?
Diagnosing schizophrenia typically involves a combination of approaches. A health professional may:
- Review medical and family medical histories
- Conduct blood tests to exclude other causes
- Perform a physical examination
- Discuss the individual's concerns and distress
- Conduct an MRI scan
- Assess for specific symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized speech
Takeaway
The causes of schizophrenia are complex and multifaceted, involving genetic, environmental, and biological factors. Understanding these potential contributors can help in managing the condition and seeking appropriate treatment. If you suspect you or a loved one may have schizophrenia, consulting a mental health professional is crucial for diagnosis and developing a personalized treatment plan.