Here's All You Need To Know About Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Do you feel an itch to wash your hands compulsively, thinking they are always dirty? Or can't you stand the sight of an unkept bed? Maybe seeing things out of order makes you anxious. Well, if feelings like this keep reoccurring for you at all times, then there may be a possibility that you have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

What is obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterised by recurrent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours (compulsions) that individuals feel driven to perform. OCD affects people of all ages and can significantly impact their daily lives. When it comes to OCD, there is not just one thing that defines what causes it or if one has it or not. A lot of people have a lot of superstitions, like knocking on wood two times or doing something they believe or have believed will cause them to have a bad day, which can also include getting a forward message on WhatsApp saying so. But there is the possibility that it may not be classified under the OCD umbrella.

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Symptoms of OCD

Symptoms leading to OCD can be easily characterised. However, a person needs to meet certain criteria that may indicate that he or she has this disorder.

Obsessions

Obsessions in OCD are persistent and intrusive thoughts that cause significant distress and anxiety. They are not mere worries or concerns but are experienced as distressing and unwanted. No matter how one tries to understand and suppress these recurring thoughts, they end up going back and forth trying to get rid of these persistent thoughts but tend to get riled up about them.

Types of obsessions

There are different types of obsessions that a person with OCD can have. Some of them are:

a. Contamination: People with this sort of obsession can have a fear of germs, dirt, or toxins, leading to excessive handwashing or avoidance of certain places or objects.

b. Symmetry and Order: People with this sort of obsession need things in a certain order or with a certain kind of symmetry. If not, then they may end up feeling anxious until these things are kept in order.

c. Intrusive Thoughts: People with these obsessions have disturbing, violent, or taboo thoughts that are against a person's moral or ethical values.

d. hoarding: the compulsion to accumulate and keep excessive amounts of possessions, even if they are of little value.

e. Excessive Doubting: People with these obsessions constantly doubt themselves and feel like they constantly need reassurance. They are also constantly worried about making mistakes.

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Compulsions

Compulsions in OCD are repetitive behaviours or mental acts that individuals feel compelled to perform in response to their obsessions. People with these kinds of compulsions do so because they fear the negative outcome of not taking action. They may also get anxious if they don't do the action that causes their compulsions. Types of compulsions:

a. Checking: People with this kind of compulsion repeatedly check things like locks, appliances, or personal belongings to ensure they are secure or free from harm.

b. Cleaning and washing: This one is rooted in the obsession with germs. These people end up excessively washing their hands, cleaning, or disinfecting to alleviate fears of contamination.

c. Ordering and Arranging: Again, in addition to symmetry and order, these people need objects or items to be arranged in a specific manner or according to a strict order.

d. Mental Rituals: Engaging in mental acts or rituals, such as counting or repeating phrases silently, to neutralise obsessive thoughts.

e. Avoidance: These people tend to avoid situations, places, or people that trigger obsessive thoughts or lead to distress.

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What are the causes leading to obsessive-compulsive disorders?

The exact causes of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are not fully understood. However, there are some factors that may lead to obsessive-compulsive disorders. Here are some of those factors:

Genetic factor

There is evidence that OCD can run in families, suggesting a genetic component to the disorder. Studies have shown that individuals with a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with OCD have a higher risk of developing the disorder themselves. A study titled 'Obsessive-compulsive disorder and its related disorders: a reappraisal of obsessive-compulsive spectrum concepts' mentions that genes that affect the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin can play a role in this disorder.

Neurobiological Abnormalities

Neuroimaging studies have revealed differences in brain structure and functioning in individuals with OCD. Specifically, abnormalities in the circuitry involving the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, and thalamus have been observed. Dysregulation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine is also thought to play a role in OCD.

Environmental Factors

While genetics play a significant role, environmental factors may also contribute to the development of OCD. Childhood trauma, such as physical or sexual abuse, has been associated with an increased risk of developing OCD later in life. Stressful life events, such as major life transitions or chronic stress, may also trigger the onset or exacerbation of OCD symptoms.

Neurotransmitter Imbalance

Imbalances in neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin, have been implicated in OCD. Serotonin is involved in regulating mood, anxiety, and behaviour. Medications that increase serotonin levels, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are commonly prescribed for OCD treatment and have shown efficacy in reducing symptoms.

Cognitive and behavioural factors

Cognitive models propose that certain cognitive processes, such as excessive attention to intrusive thoughts and maladaptive beliefs about the significance of those thoughts, contribute to the development and maintenance of OCD symptoms. Behavioural models suggest that engaging in compulsive behaviours provides temporary relief from distress, reinforcing the cycle of obsessions and compulsions.

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How does one cope with obsessive-compulsive disorder?

There are certain behaviours and activities one can do to cope with obsessive-compulsive disorders. Some of these behaviours include:

Become aware by speaking to your healthcare provider

The first thing to do when you feel like you have ODC is to become aware of it and educate yourself regarding it. By talking to your healthcare provider, you can learn about what actually causes the disorder by taking a physical exam and asking about your health history, just to find out if the disorder isn't caused by any sort of illness.

Take treatment

When it comes to treatments, there are two kinds that typically work for people. The first is psychotherapy (such as cognitive behavioural therapy). The second is medication or there is a combination of the two. A mental health professional can talk about the benefits and risks associated with different treatment options and help identify the best treatment for you.

Relaxing techniques and reduction of stress

People with obsessive-compulsive disorder can go through a lot of stress due to small things. So, managing one's stress and taking care of one's mental health by doing some self-care activities is extremely important. One can try some relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing activities, yoga, or some hobby that calms them down.

Proper exercise and diet

Mental health disorders tend to flare up when the level of serotonin, endorphins, or happy hormones in a person is low. These are generally improved by exercising and bringing the heart rate up. Experts generally suggest that people with different mental disorders should definitely add exercise to their routine. Even a proper, healthy diet can improve the condition.

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It is not like one cannot do something about it. It may be a little tough, and many may struggle with it, but fortunately, obsessive-compulsive disorders can be managed with the right treatment.