Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

What is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a brain disorder that involves two distinct components.

OBSESSIONS and COMPULSIONS.

Obsessions are persistent, repeated, uncontrollable thoughts, or images.

Compulsions are the actions or thoughts which the individual pursues in an effort to relieve the anxiety or distress generated by the Obsession.

Constant re-arrangement of objects, and checking actions without a specific reason, can cause considerable distress to the individual, and to people that surround them.

We all experience recurrent Obsessions and Compulsions of one kind or another. It is only when they become severe enough to cause marked distress, and become so time-consuming (significantly affecting the individual's life), that they become a disorder.

An example of one of the most common Obsessions involves the fear of contamination (by germs or bacteria) which leads to repeated hand washing. This cycle of repeated thoughts and actions can dramatically interfere with everyday life.

OCD affects 2%-3% of the population, and is equally common in men and women. It usually appears in early adulthood, typically for men in the early 20's, and slightly later, at around 25 years of age, in women.

What Causes OCD?

The exact cause of OCD is unknown. However, it is believed to involve problems in communication within the brain itself, and the depletion of the serotonin neurotransmitters (chemical 'messengers') which normally transmit these messages from the frontal part (the orbital cortex) to other parts of the brain.

It also appears that genetic (hereditary) factors may also play an important role.

Recognizing the Symptoms

The symptoms of OCD cause significant distress and usually interfere with normal activities and relationships.

Symptoms of Obsessions are defined as:

Recurrent and persistent thoughts that are intrusive and inappropriate and cause marked anxiety. These thoughts are not excessive worries about real life situations, and attempts are often made to suppress them. The individual concerned also recognizes that these thoughts are abnormal.

These symptoms can include:

• Worries about dirt and contamination

 
• Excessive tidiness and neatness

 
• Aggressive impulses about a loved one

 

Symptoms of Compulsions are defined as:

Repetitive behaviors or mental exercises that the individual feels compelled to do in response to the obsessive thoughts. This behavior is carried out in an effort to prevent or reduce stress, and is clearly excessive.

These symptoms can include:

• Constant re-washing the hands

 
• Constant re-arrangement of objects

 
• Constantly checking actions (e.g. re-locking doors)

 

Diagnosing the Condition

Diagnosis usually involves a thorough psychiatric examination. A healthcare provider will interview the patient about his, or her, actions in order to identify the symptoms and the degree to which routine activities, and/or relationships, are impaired.

A review of the medications already being taken by the individual concerned, will also be carried out as some medicines are known to aggravate this condition.

If an individual presents with concerns of Obsessions or Compulsions, a diagnosis can be made relatively easily.

Treatment

Treatment for OCD normally involves a combination of both psychotherapy and drug medications.

It takes a significant amount of time to control the symptoms of OCD when first starting to take the prescribed medication. For this reason, it is important to continue to take the prescribed treatment.

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Behavior therapy - Talking with a psychotherapist about ways to change compulsions into healthier, productive actions.

Psychotherapy - Talking with a trained counselor or psychotherapist who understand the condition.

Self Help

Educating family and friends about the condition will help them to manage behavioral problems more sympathetically, and to watch out for the warning signs.

Support groups may also be helpful in accepting and changing Obsessive-Compulsive behaviors.

Relaxation, meditation, physical exercise, regular sleep, and a balanced diet are all important factors in maintaining this focus.

Consult your healthcare provider if you are having difficulty in sleeping and/or you are experiencing problems that prevent you from taking regular exercise.

Keeping a diary may help the individual to identify those stressful situations that trigger compulsive reactions, enabling them to focus on more constructive activities.

 

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