Acta Psychopathologica Open Access

Exploring the Genetic and Environmental Factors of Schizophrenia

Eduardo Jose^* Department of Psychoanalysis, Ghent University, Belgium
^*Correspondence: Eduardo Jose, Department of Psychoanalysis, Ghent University, Belgium, Email:

Received: 30-Oct-2024, Manuscript No. IPAP-24-22136; Editor assigned: 01-Nov-2024, Pre QC No. IPAP-24-22136 (PQ); Reviewed: 15-Nov-2024, QC No. IPAP-24-22136; Revised: 20-Nov-2024, Manuscript No. IPAP-24-22136 (R); Published: 27-Nov-2024, DOI: 10.36648/2469-6676-10.11.110

Introduction

Schizophrenia is a chronic, severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Individuals with schizophrenia may seem like they have lost touch with reality, leading to distress for both them and their loved ones. This disorder is among the most complex and least understood psychiatric conditions, and it has a profound impact on individuals’ lives. In this article, we will explore the nature of schizophrenia, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and the challenges faced by individuals with the disorder. Schizophrenia is often misunderstood by the public, with many confusing it with split personalities or other types of psychosis. However, schizophrenia is not a personality disorder but a serious mental illness that involves a wide range of symptoms affecting cognition, emotion, and behaviour. It is characterized by episodes of psychosis, where individuals may experience hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and difficulty distinguishing between what is real and what is not. The term “schizophrenia” comes from the Greek words “schizo” (split) and “phrenia” (mind), which is a misleading reference to the idea of a split personality. In reality, schizophrenia does not involve multiple personalities, but rather a fragmented sense of reality, thoughts, and perceptions.

Description

Schizophrenia affects approximately 1% of the global population, with men and women equally vulnerable to developing the disorder. It usually manifests in late adolescence or early adulthood, typically between the ages of 16 and 30, although it can occur at any age. The impact of schizophrenia on individuals and society is immense. Schizophrenia not only affects the individual’s quality of life but also places a heavy burden on families, healthcare systems, and communities. The disorder is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, and people with schizophrenia are at increased risk for other health issues, including cardiovascular disease, substance abuse, and suicide. The exact cause of schizophrenia is still unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Schizophrenia tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component. Having a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, with schizophrenia increases the risk of developing the disorder. However, most people diagnosed with schizophrenia do not have a family history of the illness. Abnormalities in brain structure and function are observed in people with schizophrenia. Research indicates that imbalances in neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and glutamate, may play a significant role in the development of the disorder.

Conclusion

Additionally, structural changes, such as enlarged ventricles in the brain, have been found in individuals with schizophrenia. Certain prenatal or early life factors may increase the risk of schizophrenia. These include complications during pregnancy or birth, exposure to toxins or viruses in utero, and stressful life events during childhood or adolescence. Substance abuse, particularly the use of drugs like marijuana, amphetamines, or hallucinogens, can also trigger or worsen symptoms in those genetically predisposed. While not a direct cause of schizophrenia, high levels of stress, particularly during critical life events like moving to a new place, facing financial hardship, or experiencing trauma, can exacerbate the onset of symptoms. Stress can act as a catalyst for an individual already predisposed to the disorder.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict Of Interest

The author’s declared that they have no conflict of interest.