Although the cause of Schizophrenia is still not completely understood, it is believed that the functioning of the brain's neurotransmitter is involved. Many factors may contribute to this disturbed functioning. Heredity may be a factor in Schizophrenia just as it is in cancer, diabetes, and other physical illnesses. Stress may contribute to the onset of schizophrenia in a genetically vulnerable person. Recreational drug use may contribute to onset, but it is unlikely to be the single cause.
Auditory hallucinations are most common.
Feelings of anxiety are often high with this illness. People may feel an urgent compulsion to act when they receive a mistaken message because they have a sense of dire consequences occurring if they do not act. Some people with schizophrenia recover completely while others improve to the point that they can live independently. In almost all cases maintenance of drug therapy is essential. At times, and for many different reasons people with schizophrenia may decide not to take their medication.