Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that individuals feel compelled to perform in order to reduce their anxiety. OCD can interfere with daily life, and relationships, and cause significant distress.

What are the Symptoms of OCD?

OCD is characterized by a combination of obsessions and compulsions. Symptoms of OCD can vary widely, but some common examples include excessive cleaning or handwashing, repeated checking of locks or appliances, intrusive thoughts about harm to oneself or others, and a need for symmetry or order.t

Obsession

An obsession is a persistent, unwanted thought, urge, or image that repeatedly enters a person's mind.

These thoughts are often intrusive and cause significant distress. People with OCD often experience obsessions.

Examples of obsessions:

• Excessive doubt
• Fear of losing control
• Fear of contamination
• Need for symmetry or order  
• Unwanted intrusive thoughts (violent, sexual, or religious)

Compulsion

A compulsion is a repetitive behavior or mental act that a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession. These actions are aimed at reducing anxiety or preventing something bad from happening.  

Examples of compulsions:

• Hoarding
• Excessive handwashing or cleaning
• Avoidance of situations that trigger obsessions
• Checking locks, stoves, or appliances repeatedly
• Counting, repeating words silently, or arranging object

It's important to note that while obsessions and compulsions often go hand-in-hand, they can also occur independently.

What causes Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

The exact causes of OCD are not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Brain imaging studies have shown that individuals with OCD may have differences in the way their brain functions, particularly in areas related to decision-making, judgment, and impulse control.

How is OCD Treated?

Treatment for OCD often involves a combination of therapy and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common form of therapy for OCD, which focuses on helping individuals recognize and challenge their obsessive thoughts, and learn new coping strategies. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can also be effective in reducing symptoms.

Additional Treatments

In addition to therapy and medication, lifestyle changes can also be helpful in managing OCD. Exercise, healthy eating, stress reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga, and social support can all help individuals cope with the symptoms of OCD.

If you or a loved one is struggling with OCD, it is important to seek professional help. With the right treatment and support, individuals with OCD can learn to manage their symptoms and live a fulfilling life.

Sources:

• Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria (n.d.). Obsessive compulsive disorder - Better Health Channel. [Website]. Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/obsessive-compulsive-disorder
• Johns Hopkins Medicine (n.d.). Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) | Johns Hopkins Medicine. Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/obsessivecompulsive-disorder-ocd
• Mayo Clinic [Organization as Author] (n.d.). Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. [Website]. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obsessive-compulsive-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20354432
• National Institutes of Health (NLM). (2023, October 17). Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. MedlinePlus. [Website]. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/obsessivecompulsivedisorder.html