What Is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?
Obsessive compulsive disorder is a mental health condition where a person experiences obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are where they have frequent, unwanted thoughts. On the other hand, compulsions involve performing certain actions repeatedly.
These behaviors are usually meant to reduce the anxiety caused by obsessions. However, they take a lot of time and disrupt your daily life.
For instance, you might feel the need to wash your hands repeatedly because you are obsessed with the idea of getting rid of germs.
The World Health Organization (WHO) considers OCD as one of the top ten most disabling illnesses. Its symptoms can lead to severe distress and frustration. However, treatments are available.
What Causes Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?
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Researchers do not fully understand the exact cause of OCD. However, certain factors are believed to play a role:
- Genetics. Evidence suggests that OCD might be related to certain genes. However, researchers haven’t yet identified the specific genes responsible for it. Perhaps the occurrence of OCD in families suggests it might be inherited.
- Biology. A few studies highlight that OCD stems from changes in brain chemistry and functions. For instance, irregularities in neurotransmitter levels may trigger it. Research shows that low levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and anxiety, might be responsible for it.
- Environmental Factors also play a role. Children or adults may observe family members engaging in obsessive-compulsive behaviors. As such, they’re likely to learn these patterns over time.
- Stress. Although stress doesn’t directly cause OCD. However, if you’re genetically predisposed to OCD, it can be a reason. Besides, if you already have OCD, you may experience exaggerated symptoms after traumatic life experiences.
Risk Factors Involved In OCD
Several factors influence the development of OCD. Understanding the risk contributors can explain why some individuals may be more susceptible to others.
- Childhood adversity. Adverse experiences during childhood can contribute to the development of OCD later in life. Early life stressors may disrupt normal brain development. This increases the vulnerability to anxiety disorders, including OCD.
- Personality traits. Certain personality traits like high levels of perfectionism or a strong need for control may also make you vulnerable to OCD. These traits may predispose you to develop rigid thought patterns, ultimately leading to OCD.
- Gender. While OCD affects men and women equally, research suggests that the age of onset and specific symptom profile may differ between genders. Besides, hormonal influences and societal expectations can also contribute to these differences.
- Family history. Individuals with a family history of OCD are more likely to develop the disorder themselves. Your close relatives with OCD also indirectly influence behaviors within the family environment.
Complications
OCD can lead to several complications that impact your daily life.
- The demands of OCD can place stress on relationships with family, friends, and partners. Loved ones may struggle to understand the compulsions and obsessions, which can lead to conflict.
- Individuals with OCD may limit social interactions to avoid embarrassment about their symptoms. This can result in loneliness.
- Engaging in compulsive behaviors can sometimes cause physical harm. For instance, excessive hand washing can lead to skin issues and repetitive checking can cause fatigue.
- The persistent nature of OCD reduces the quality of life. Individuals feel trapped in their obsessions, which causes feelings of despair.
- Some individuals with OCD may turn to drugs to cope with their symptoms. This can lead to substance abuse issues.
- The intense distress due to OCD can sometimes lead to suicidal ideation.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Diagnosis
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There’s no direct test for diagnosing OCD. However, a healthcare provider may use the specific methods below to identify the condition.
Psychological Evaluation
This is where a healthcare professional discusses your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
They may interview you directly or give you a questionnaire. This helps them identify your obsessions and compulsions and how they affect your daily life. Then, with your consent, they may talk to your family to gain a fuller picture of your condition.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder DSM 5 Criteria
The doctor may compare your symptoms against the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-V). Here’s what it includes:
- Experiencing obsessions, compulsions, or both
- Obsessions or compulsions taking up more than an hour each day
- Finding that these obsessions or compulsions cause distress or interfere with social activities, work, and other important aspects of life
- Ensuring that the symptoms aren’t better explained by another mental health condition (like an eating disorder, body image disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder)
- Making sure that medications, substance abuse, or any other underlying medical condition aren’t causing the symptoms.
OCD In Children
Adults with OCD typically understand that their thoughts and behaviors are irrational. However, children often lack this awareness.
They may believe their obsessive thoughts to be real. As such, they might feel compelled to perform specific actions to prevent something bad from happening.
If you or your child’s teacher notices unusual behaviors, they might initially mistake it for conditions like ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
However, the symptoms of OCD are different. Only a mental health specialist can thoroughly evaluate the symptoms for an accurate diagnosis.
Getting Help for OCD
Many people with OCD hesitate to seek help due to feelings of embarrassment. However, it’s important to understand that OCD is a health condition like any other, and there’s no reason to feel ashamed.
Having OCD doesn’t mean you’re “crazy,” and it’s not your fault either.
You can seek help in two ways:
- Consult a GP. A general practitioner will discuss your symptoms and refer you to local therapy services if needed.
- Self-Referral. You can directly refer yourself to a local talking therapy service.
Severe cases of OCD are unlikely to improve without proper treatment and support. So, reaching out for help is crucial to manage this condition effectively.
Conclusion
Each person’s experience with OCD is unique. A combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors play a role. Recognizing this helps us appreciate the resilience of those who face OCD daily. Besides, we feel the urge to create supportive environments for them.
If you know someone who battles with obsessive compulsive disorder, make sure you encourage them to seek professional help.
FAQs
Q1. What Causes Obsessive Thinking?
Obsessive thinking can stem from various factors, including stress, trauma, and genetic predisposition.
Q2. What Are the Biological Causes of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?
Biological causes of OCD include differences in brain structure and neurotransmitter imbalances.
Q3. Which Hormone Is Responsible for OCD?
There isn’t a single hormone responsible for OCD. Instead, it involves complex interactions among neurotransmitters. Some researchers believe oxytocin is related to OCD, while others believe it’s because of the changes in the level of cortisol, the stress hormone.
