Unfortunately, scientists dont know exactly what causes this mental illness.
They do, however, understand that genetics plays a large role.
Environmental factors, including some that occur while in the womb, can also contribute to developing schizophrenia.
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Continue reading to learn more about what causes and triggers schizophrenia.
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What Causes Schizophrenia to Develop?
About 80% of the chance of developing schizophrenia can be explained by genes.This is called heritability.
Scientists dont believe theres one gene that is responsible for schizophrenia.
Instead, they think there are many genes at play.
However, they don’t have a full understand of what genes impact the risk for schizophrenia.
Epigenetics
Epigenetics is the study of how behavior and environment impact how genes work.
Scientists believe there are strong epigenetic risk factors that impact the development of schizophrenia.
Scientists havent yet identified why the way some genes are expressed can increase risk.
Some research suggests that using drugs, particularly during the teen years, can increase risk for schizophrenia.
However, they havent identified specific viral triggers of schizophrenia.
In addition, many people who have close relatives with the disease dont develop it themselves.
Sometimes these episodes happen for no obvious reason.
When you notice changes to mood or functioning, seek help early.
Adjusting medications and behaviors may help you avoid a full-fledged episode.
Thats why the disease runs in families.
However, theres no one gene that causes the disorder.
If you or your loved one have this disease, remember that theres no shame.
Nothing you did caused the illness.
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