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Queensland Government
Link to Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au)
 
Queensland Health
Forensic mental health community information

What are the causes of mental illness

There is some evidence that mental illness is caused by a combination of biological factors that create a vulnerability. Genetics play a part, but people can develop a mental illness with no family history at all. We know that chemical changes occur that affect functioning of the brain (both dopamine and serotonin are involved).

People who are vulnerable to mental illness may experience symptoms in response to stress, social change or drugs.

Important facts to remember are:

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Last Updated: 02 September 2008
Last Reviewed: 02 September 2008