Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
OCD is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by persistent and recurring thoughts, feelings, images, or sensations that are intrusive and unwanted, known as obsessions. People with OCD experience a strong urge to perform certain behaviors or mental acts in an attempt to reduce the anxiety and distress caused by these intrusive thoughts. These behaviors, known as compulsions, can include repetitive actions such as hand washing, counting, checking, ordering, or arranging. While these actions may temporarily reduce anxiety, they often end up becoming problematic in their own right and can interfere with daily life.
It’s normal for everyone to have occasional intrusive thoughts or to engage in some repetitive behaviors from time to time. However, it is only when these thoughts and behaviors become persistent, distressing, and disruptive to daily life that they can be considered symptoms of OCD.
Obsessions are a hallmark of OCD, and they can be extremely distressing and difficult to manage. People with OCD often try to ignore or suppress their obsessions, but this only increases their anxiety and distress. People with OCD often have a high level of awareness and insight into the irrationality of their thoughts. Despite this awareness, people with OCD often struggle to overcome their obsessions because the anxiety and distress caused by these thoughts is so intense.
It’s important to note that the distress and disruption caused by obsessions are what distinguish them from normal intrusive thoughts or worries. Normal intrusive thoughts are a common experience and typically do not cause significant distress or interfere with daily life. On the other hand, obsessions in the context of OCD are often so intense and persistent that they can take up a significant amount of time and energy, making it difficult to focus on other activities and enjoy life.
Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or thoughts that a person uses in an attempt to relieve anxiety or neutralize obsessions, despite realizing that these rituals are time-consuming and unrealistic. Compulsions can take many forms, such as excessive hand washing, checking, counting, organizing, or mentally repeating phrases or prayers. Compulsions are often performed in response to specific obsessive thoughts, but can also be performed as a way to prevent or avoid unpleasant outcomes or to reduce anxiety. However, engaging in compulsions only provides temporary relief from anxiety, and the cycle of obsessions and compulsions can become all-consuming, interfering with daily life and overall functioning.
While the exact cause of OCD is not yet known, research suggests that a combination of biological, genetic, and environmental factors may contribute to the development of the disorder. The communication between the front part of the brain and deeper structures of the brain appears to be disrupted in those with OCD, involving problems with the neurotransmitter serotonin. This communication breakdown is thought to contribute to the intrusive and distressing thoughts and compulsive behaviors seen in OCD.
Research has also shown that OCD does run in families, suggesting that genetic factors play a role in the development of the disorder. However, genes are not the only factor involved, and environmental stressors, illnesses, or life events may trigger the expression of genes associated with OCD. Studies have also shown that the role of genes may be different in childhood-onset OCD compared to adult-onset OCD, with a stronger genetic component in childhood-onset OCD. In some cases, children may develop OCD or OCD symptoms following a streptococcal infection. This is called Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS).
It’s important to seek treatment for OCD if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, as proper treatment and support can help manage and overcome the symptoms of OCD and improve overall functioning and quality of life. Treatment options for OCD typically include a combination of medication and therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention (ERP).
Dr. Parikh has expertise in treating obsessive compulsive disorder with medications and psychotherapy.
Contact her today to start your journey towards a healthier quality of life!