Schizophrenia: What Increases Your Risk

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What Increases Your Risk

You are at higher risk for developing schizophrenia if you:

• Have a mother, father, or sibling with schizophrenia (genetic predisposition). But having a relative with schizophrenia does not mean you will develop this disorder. Many people have schizophrenia who do not have a relative with this condition, and many people who have relatives with schizophrenia will not develop this condition.
• Have another disorder that is like schizophrenia (such as schizotypal personality) or have family members with such a condition.
• Had a childhood head injury, especially if you have a family history of schizophrenia.⁵
• Were exposed to a viral infection, malnutrition, or medicines (diuretics) used to control a mother's high blood pressure prior to birth.³
• Have a substance abuse problem.⁶ It is not yet clear whether the abuse triggers schizophrenia or whether a person with schizophrenia is more likely to have a substance abuse problem.
• Have a father who was over age 50 when you were conceived.⁴ It is not yet clear why the age of the father may put you at higher risk. Research is ongoing to better understand and prove this risk factor.

You are at higher risk for relapse if you:¹⁰

• Develop symptoms slowly rather than suddenly.
• Do not seek prompt treatment.
• Live in social isolation without much contact with other people.
• Have poor family support.
• Have a strong family history of schizophrenia.
• Live in industrialized countries.
• Are male.
• Have substance abuse problems.
• Do not continue to take medications.

Last updated:	February 05, 2008
Author:	Jeannette Curtis
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC