Mental Disorders: The Cause Of Schizophrenia

The cause of schizophrenia is unknown however, researchers believe that a combination of genetics, environment, and brain chemistry contribute to the development of the disorder. It tends to run in families. One inherits a tendency to develop the disease. Schizophrenia may also be triggered by environmental factors. People with schizophrenia have an imbalance of brain chemicals which are neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters allow nerve cells to send messages to each other. The imbalance of these chemicals affects the way an individual’s brain react to stimuli. This explains why patients with schizophrenia may be overwhelmed with sensory information. This can also lead to delusions and hallucinations (“What Causes”).

According to

Treatment for schizophrenia is less effective for individuals abusing substances. Drugs such as marijuana and stimulants such as amphetamines or cocaine, may make symptoms worse. Use of these drugs during schizophrenia treatment can greatly reduce the effectiveness of treatments. It may also delay or prevent any improvement in an individual’s mental health. Individuals with schizophrenia who abuse drugs are significantly more likely to skip their treatments than other individuals with the disorder (“What About”).

People with schizophrenia seem to be driven to smoke. Several studies have found that smoking may make antipsychotic drugs less effective. Quitting smoking may be very difficult for people with schizophrenia because nicotine withdrawal may cause their psychotic symptoms to get worse for a while. Quitting strategies that include nicotine replacement methods may be easier for patients to handle.

There are many places that will offer treatment for drug addiction and can help one deal with this lifelong disorder. Doctors must address the two problems together and find treatment for them at the same time. There are many places that will offer treatment for drug addiction and the mental

Family members can make a huge difference by helping their loved one find the right treatment, and cope with symptoms. The disorder can also be tough on families. Individuals with schizophrenia usually have difficulty keeping a job and caring for themselves. They rely on family and friends for help. It may be scary, frustrating, or hopeless trying to live with a family member who has this disorder. The illness is sometimes difficult for one to accept. One may be confused and embarrassed by strange behaviors they don’t understand. One may even try to hide their loved one’s illness from others. It’s important to accept the illness and its difficulties, be realistic in what one expects of the individual with schizophrenia