Schizophrenia - General Discussion
in Psychology & Therapy ·
As far as I know, it’s hereditary, though I suppose it all depends on how closely you're related to the affected family member. I don't know the exact specifics, but logically, the closer the relation, the higher the risk. I actually have an aunt who has been struggling with this for quite a while now; if I recall correctly, she was first diagnosed in her early twenties. Regarding the genetics in my own family, she seems to be the first case—at least as far as anyone knows. Now, whether that's just a coincidence or not, I can't say for sure, but her symptoms surfaced right after she started getting into those spiritualist gatherings with her college friends. I've seen her experience a few episodes when I was younger, and honestly, I have no desire to end up like her. That thought crosses my mind almost every single day... Since I already deal with depression and anxiety, I can't help but think, "Great, just what I need." But then again, I try to comfort myself with the idea that maybe my own temperament might protect me; she was always such a social butterfly and full of life, whereas I am the complete opposite. Perhaps genetics will pass me by in that regard...