Causes

The causes of schizophrenia are not known but several factors may play a role in the development of the condition:

• Abnormal brain structure is commonly found in people with schizophrenia.
  
  
• Abnormal brain chemistry: schizophrenia is associated with excessive levels of the chemical dopamine in the brain.
  
  
• Birth trauma: infants who experience traumatic births or complications while in the womb may be at a greater risk of developing schizophrenia.
  
  
• Genetics: the risk of developing schizophrenia is increased if a person has one or more immediate family members with schizophrenia.
  
  
• Environmental factors (for example poverty), stress (for example moving house or the loss of a job) or substance abuse may trigger the onset of schizophrenia.