MHM Magazine

14 | MENTALHEALTHMATTERS | Issue 5 | 2021 MHM His family, who didn’t know much about the condition, wanted to understand why he developed it and what they could have done differently. The exact causes of schizophrenia are unknown. Research indicates that a combination of genetic, environmental, physical, and psychological factors make someone more likely to develop schizophrenia. Below are three primary risk factors that may make someone more vulnerable to developing schizophrenia, as well as three triggers that may be the catalyst for the development of symptoms in someone who is already at risk. GENETICS Twin studies show that genetics play a significant role in suscepti- bility to developing schizophrenia. Where one twin has schizophrenia, the other has a one in two chance of developing the condition, where- as with fraternal twins, this likeli- hood drops to one in eight. While this is higher than the likelihood of the general population, the link does not suggest that genetics can fully account for the development of schizophrenia. There is also no one defined gene implicated in the illness, but various genetic mu- tations may make someone more likely to develop schizophrenia. BRAIN DEVELOPMENT Studies of people with schizophre- nia indicate that there are often subtle differences in the structure and development of their brains, such as enlarged ventricles, small- er medial temporal lobes, and re- duced connections between brain cells. However, these changes are not seen in all individuals with schizophrenia and may even occur in people without mental illness. A history of complications that interfere with brain development before and during birth is more common in people with schizophrenia. Low birth weight, premature labour, and asphyxia may affect brain development in ways that make someone more susceptible to developing schizophrenia. NEUROTRANSMITTERS Evidence also suggests that schizophrenia may be linked to changes in the levels of dopa- mine, serotonin, and glutamate in the brain. Imbalances of these neurotransmitters or differenc- es in sensitivity to them may be implicated. Some antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia directly interact with dopamine levels in the brain to relieve symptoms. One or more of the above factors make a person more vulnerable to developing schizophrenia. Triggers are environmental factors that can be the catalyst that causes someone at risk to develop the condition. These include: STRESS Prolonged experiences of stress can precipitate the development of schizophrenia in those that are vulnerable to it. Financial struggles, relationship problems, harassment, prolonged isolation, or food and housing insecurity are examples of these stressful conditions. TRAUMA Deeply distressing or disturbing events that overwhelm someone’s ability to cope may trigger the development of schizophrenia. This includes physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, or witnessing a violent crime or death. DRUG USE While drugs do not directly cause schizophrenia, there are correla- tions between recreational drug use and schizophrenia that sug- gest that misuse of psychoactive substances increases the risk of developing the condition in those that are vulnerable. Cannabis, cocaine, LSD, and amphetamines are amongst those drugs that may trigger symptoms in people who are susceptible or cause a relapse in patients recovering from an ear- lier psychotic episode. As a disorder with both biological and psychological triggers and implications, treatment should address all aspects of a patient’s wellbeing. Schizophrenia is a chronic condition, which means that individuals who are diagnosed will need varying levels of medication, support, and treatment for the rest of their lives. Therapy and psychosocial support for the individual and their families can help those affected by schizophrenia to stay informed, cope with stressors, and identify the warning signs of relapse. With proper care and management, many patients diagnosed with schizophrenia can enjoy productive and rewarding lives. *pseudonyms were used to protect the identity of these individuals. References available on request