Understanding OCD: Symptoms and Causes:

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a pattern of unwanted, often distressing thoughts and fears, known as obsessions. This can then lead to repetitive behaviours, known as compulsions

These obsessions and compulsions can significantly interfere with an individual’s daily life, causing distress. OCD often prevents individuals from carrying out normal activities. It can negatively impact on people’s relationships, work and general social life.

Symptoms of OCD

The main symptoms of OCD are obsessions and compulsions.

Obsessions are intrusive, persistent, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause distress or anxiety. These might include fear of contamination or dirt, doubting and having difficulty tolerating uncertainty, or needing things orderly and symmetrical.

Compulsions, on the other hand, are repetitive behaviours or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession. These might include excessive cleaning or handwashing, ordering or arranging items in a particular, precise way, or repeatedly checking things.

The ICD 11 outlines the diagnostic criteria for OCD: https://icd.who.int/browse11/l-m/en#/http%3a%2f%2fid.who.int%2ficd%2fentity%2f1582741816

Emma’s experience: Emma, who was diagnosed with OCD, shares her experience: “I grew up with obsessive thoughts, or more aptly, intrusive thoughts. I believed they were a reflection of who I am, but recently I have learned the very opposite. They are exactly who I am not”

Causes of OCD

The exact cause of OCD isn’t fully understood. However, several theories suggest that it may be a result of changes in the body’s own natural chemistry. Brain functions, genetics, or learned behaviors from watching family members gradually over time, have been implicated as possible explanations.

Brain imaging studies have shown that people with OCD often have differences in the frontal cortex and subcortical structures of the brain. These are the areas of the brain that impact the ability to control behaviour and emotional responses.

The Impact of OCD

OCD can have a profound impact on an individual’s life. For instance, Jason shares his journey with OCD: “I finally had a name for this disease and it was OCD… I still have thoughts and when I am stressed out my symptoms worsen, but I now have the tools necessary to wage war against OCD”

OCD Test

If you suspect that you or someone you know might have OCD, you can try out this Quiz as a first step https://www.psycom.net/do-i-have-ocd-test . The test consists of questions that relate to common thoughts and behaviours experienced by those diagnosed with OCD. Please note that this Quiz is not diagnostic for OCD. Assessment and diagnoses should be carried out by a trained mental health professional with expertise in this condition.

If you find yourself having recurring, unwanted thoughts that disrupt your daily life and compel you to take an action, you should speak to a mental health professional about OCD.

Conclusion

Understanding OCD is the first step towards managing it. If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms of OCD, it’s important to seek professional help. Remember, OCD is a disorder, not a reflection of who you are.