OCD
Wednesday 16 September 2009
n2k looks at obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). What is it and what kind of treatment is available?
What is OCD?
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that’s characterised by regular obsessive and compulsive behaviour. The condition is really common, and around two per cent of teenagers are affected by it at one point in their lives.
Remember, mild obsessions and compulsions are completely normal – almost everyone has them. OCD on the other hand, is an extreme form of these feelings that can have a negative impact on every day life. In some cases, OCD can also lead to other mental disorders.
Obsessive
Obsessive behaviour can come in the form of unwanted and recurring ideas, thoughts, images and impulses, which a person is unable to ignore.
Some of the most common obsessive thoughts are over fear of dirt, catching an infection or disease, feeling trapped and anxieties over sexuality. This behaviour often leads to bursts of anger or violence that sometimes come out of nowhere.
Compulsive
These obsessive thoughts can often lead to anxiety and compulsions - acts that the person feels they have to do over and over again in order to prevent their fear from coming true. The acts are so regularly performed that they're almost like rituals, and the individual can spend hours seeing them through.
Common compulsions include frequent showering and washing of hands, counting and checking things over and over again.
What causes OCD
The exact cause of OCD isn’t known, but there are some common theories.
In the family
A specific gene that causes OCD hasn’t been found yet, but some research has shown that it runs in the family. One study revealed that up to 30 per cent of teenagers with OCD are related to someone with the condition too.
Serotonin
Also known as the ‘happy’ hormone, serotonin is also thought to affect OCD. It helps to regulate mood, temper anxiety and can relieve depression too. Medication that contains high levels of serotonin usually seems to help control the condition.
Life
Like many other mental conditions, research has shown that OCD can be triggered by big events in life, like puberty, death or disruption in the family.
I have OCD…
Well done for stepping up - most people with OCD find it difficult because they feel ashamed or embarrassed of their behavior.
If you are worried you have OCD then the best person to talk to is your GP. They’ll ask you a few questions to assess you and your condition. If your case is mild you’ll probably be recommended cognitive behavioural therapy. This type of treatment focuses on you and how to control your condition, and also different behavioural techniques that can help.
However, if your condition is extreme you may be referred to a specialist and given some medication too.
People affected by OCD can also get some help from support groups which provide reassurance, a person to talk to and a chance to chat to people in the same situation. Find your nearest group here.
I know someone with OCD…
Don’t ignore it! A lot of people who know someone with OCD can sometimes play along with obsessive thoughts and compulsive acts, usually because they think it makes the person feel better. However, doing this can also encourage them to do it again and again, and more often.
It’s much better to confront them and encourage them to get some help.
