Is Schizophrenia Genetic or Environmental?

"Is schizophrenia genetic or environmental?" is a pretty common question I see flying around. It's fair to ask, seeing how schizophrenia often runs in families, whereas some people develop the disorder out of the blue. So, is schizophrenia genetic or developed? It's both.

Research shows that schizophrenia is triggered by both genetics and your environment. If schizophrenia runs in your family or your grandparent has it, there's a high risk of you or your descendant(s) inheriting it. That means genetic factors are at play. However, environmental factors like lifestyle, drug use, poverty, stress, and birth complications may also increase one's risk of developing schizophrenia.

This was the conclusion Patrick Sullivan, MD, and fellow researchers in Sweden reached after their recent study, analyzing numerous past studies.

Since schizophrenia typically runs in families, genetic testing is used to identify risk factors.

Researchers believe about 80% of the risk factors for schizophrenia are genetic.

Takeaway: Is schizophrenia genetic?

Schizophrenia is both a genetic and environmental enigma. Researchers have yet to fully understand its specific causes and mechanics.

Now, the most important thing: although you cannot alter your genetics, you can modify your environment (your lifestyle, drug use, stressful conditions, etc.).

So, if you worry about developing schizophrenia or fear your kids may be at risk because of your family history and genetics, you can start by practicing a healthier lifestyle. This may help reduce your risk.

Also, consider going for genetic testing.

If you've already been diagnosed with schizophrenia, we can help.

We understand that delusions, hallucinations, and poor emotional control resulting from schizophrenia can make life feel almost worthless. But we can help you manage the symptoms so you can live a higher quality life.

Get in touch now.

Author

Satu H. Woodland, PMHCNS-BC, APRN Satu Woodland is owner and clinician of Hope Mental Health, an integrative mental health practice located at Bown Crossing in Boise, Idaho. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.  Ms. Woodland with her background in nursing, prefers a holistic and integrative approach to mental health care that addresses the mind and body together. While Ms. Woodland provides medication management services in all her patients, she believes in long-lasting solutions that include a number of psychotherapies, namely cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention therapy, attention to lifestyle, evidenced based alternative psychiatric care and spirituality. If you’d like to gain control over your mental health issues, call Hope Mental Health at 208-918-0958, or use the online scheduling tool to set up an initial consultation.