Causes
Researchers haven't identified the cause or causes of schizophrenia,
although they believe genetic factors play a role. Chemical or subtle
structural abnormalities in the brain may contribute to causing this
illness.
Schizophrenia may exist alone or in combination with other psychiatric
or medical conditions. Misconceptions about schizophrenia and its
relation to other mental illnesses abound. The following truths will
help clarify what it is and is not:
-
Schizophrenia
isn't the same as a split or multiple personality. Multiple
personality disorder is a separate, rare condition.
-
Although some
people with schizophrenia develop violent tendencies, most don't.
Many withdraw into themselves rather than interact with others.
-
Not everyone who
acts paranoid or distrustful has schizophrenia. Some people have a
paranoid personality disorder, a tendency to be suspicious or
distrustful of others, without the other features of schizophrenia.
-
Not everyone who
hears voices is schizophrenic. Some people with depression may hear
voices. Hearing voices may also occur as a result of a serious
medical illness or from the effects of medication.
When to seek medical advice
By its nature, schizophrenia often isn't an illness for which someone is
likely to voluntarily seek treatment. To a person with schizophrenia,
the delusions and hallucinations are real, and often he or she may
perceive that there's no need for medical help. If you're a family
member or friend of someone who is exhibiting possible signs of
schizophrenia or another mental disorder, you may need to be the one who
takes him or her to a medical professional for evaluation.
