Schizophrenia is thought to be due to abnormal levels of chemicals in the brain. The commonly implicated neurotransmitter is that of dopamine. Many studies have shown that when there is excessive amounts of dopamine, the brain becomes excitable and many abnormal experiences (like hearing voices when there are none, and perceiving things that are not there) can arise.
Schizophrenia is often perceived as a neuro-developmental disorder with a biological basis. The typical age of onset is that of early 20s for males and late 20s for females. In many cases, there is a family history of the disorder. For this disorder, medications is the mainstay of treatment. For patients who recovered after taking their medications, many of them do relapse when their medications are later on stopped.
Apart from medications, cognitive therapy has also been studied as a form of intervention for schizophrenia but oftentimes, the patients who receive cognitive therapy also need to be maintained on medications. Family support for the family is also important for persons with schizophrenia. Many cases also require assistance in their academic pursuits and in getting a job. Hence, the importance of psychosocial interventions.
