Causes of schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a long-term brain condition that affects how a person thinks, feels and perceives reality. No single cause has been found. Researchers believe it arises from a mix of genetic vulnerability, differences in brain development and chemistry, and environmental stressors. It is a medical illness, not a result of weak character, bad parenting or "black magic".

Genetic factors

• Having a close relative with schizophrenia raises the risk. About 1 in 100 people in the general population develop it, while the risk is roughly 10 percent with a parent or sibling affected.
• Many genes each add a small risk. No single gene is a cause, and most people with a family history never develop it.

Brain chemistry and structure

• Imbalances in brain chemicals such as dopamine and glutamate are linked to symptoms.
• Subtle differences in brain structure and connections are seen in some people.

Pregnancy and early life

• Infections, severe malnutrition or high stress in the mother during pregnancy.
• Complications at birth and low oxygen.
• Growing up in a city and early-life adversity or trauma.

Triggers in young adulthood

• Heavy use of cannabis, especially in the teen years, and some other drugs such as amphetamines and LSD can trigger psychosis and raise the risk.
• Major stress, isolation or loss, often around late teens to early thirties.
• Poor sleep and substance use can bring on a relapse in people who are already unwell.

What does not cause it It is not caused by a split personality, a curse, possession or poor upbringing. Families are not to blame.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Ayurveda describes conditions resembling psychosis under unmada, linked with disturbed doshas and mind channels. This is a traditional framework, not an established cause, and it must not delay psychiatric care.

Remember Schizophrenia is treatable. Early psychiatric help improves long-term outcomes.