Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is typically diagnosed during early adulthood (18-25 years old). Evidence suggests that both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the expression of schizophrenia. Research suggests that the interaction between genetic and environmental factors in those that are predisposed to schizophrenia (e.g., first degree relative diagnosed with schizophrenia) plays an important role in when that specific gene is expressed. Epigenetics is specifically interested in learning when a specific gene turns “on” or “off” and what initiates this process. For instance, toxin exposure in utero has been studied as a potential environmental trigger for the unborn fetus. Neurobiological studies have found that there is an over activity in the dopamine system for many people with schizophrenia. This is likely related to the experience of hallucinations and paranoid thinking. In addition, a thinning of the thalamus tissues in the brain has been noticed in brain imaging. The thalamus is important in the filtration of incoming sensory information and therefore a thinning of the tissue may result in distorted sensory information.

Antipsychotic medications have been helpful in reducing positive symptoms of schizophrenia in conjunction with psychotherapy. Early identification and treatment is important in a good prognosis, as well as a strong and understanding social support network.