Its best evidence is that children born to mothers exposed to viruses during the second trimester of pregnancy, but not the first or third, have an increased risk for the development of schizophrenia. There is also the possibility that some viruses, such as the influenza or Borna virus, might mimic certain natural-occurring substances and, by doing so, cause some of the symptoms of illnesses like schizophrenia. This does not mean, however, that schizophrenia is caused by viruses. For example, it may be that the virus in the mother causes physiological stress, which in turn leads to development of the disease. Thus far, attempts to identify a specific virus contributing to the etiology of schizophrenia have failed, although this hypothesis continues to be actively explored.
Policies regarding involuntary commitment are different in every state.
In California, for example, it is possible to put someone in the hospital involuntarily upon the recommendation of two physicians, a police officer, or others who are qualified to make this decision for a very specific reason. A person can be placed in a hospital against their will for up to 72 hours. That person can then ask for a hearing in which a judge rules whether to allow the involuntary commitment decision to stand. One of the criteria for involuntary commitment is that the person have a mental illness and, as a result of this illness, be considered dangerous to themselves or others or greatly disabled. In this case, greatly disabled means that the person is unable to take care of basic needs such as the acquisition of food, clothing or shelter.