FACTS

• OCD is a chronic mental health disorder that affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.

• It is estimated that approximately 2-3% of the global population has OCD.

• OCD involves the presence of obsessions (intrusive and distressing thoughts) and/or compulsions (repetitive behaviors or mental acts).

• Common obsessions include fears of contamination, doubts about safety or harm, and a need for symmetry or exactness.

• OCD can significantly interfere with daily functioning and can cause distress and impairment in various areas of life.

CAUSES

• Genetic factors: There is evidence suggesting that OCD can run in families, indicating a genetic predisposition to the disorder.

• Brain abnormalities: Certain brain regions and neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly involving serotonin, have been associated with OCD.

• Environmental factors: Traumatic life events, such as abuse or significant stressors, may contribute to the development or exacerbation of OCD.

• Cognitive factors: Distorted beliefs and faulty cognitive processing, such as an exaggerated sense of responsibility or perfectionism, can play a role in OCD.

• Neurological and developmental factors: Some neurological conditions, such as Tourette's syndrome, and developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, have a higher likelihood of co-occurring with OCD.

SYMPTOMS

• Obsessions: Persistent and unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant anxiety or distress.

• Compulsions: Repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed in response to obsessions, often aimed at reducing anxiety or preventing a feared event.

• Fear of contamination: Excessive concerns about dirt, germs, or illnesses, leading to compulsive handwashing or cleaning rituals.

• Checking rituals: Frequent checking behaviors, such as repeatedly verifying doors, locks, or appliances, due to intrusive doubts or fears.

• Symmetry and orderliness: The need for things to be arranged symmetrically or in a specific order, often resulting in time-consuming rituals and rearranging items repeatedly.

THERAPY USED

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: This evidence-based therapy focuses on challenging and modifying negative thoughts and beliefs, as well as exposing individuals to feared situations while preventing compulsive behaviors.

• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): A specific form of CBT, ERP involves gradually exposing individuals to anxiety-provoking situations or triggers, while refraining from engaging in compulsions. This helps to reduce anxiety and break the cycle of obsessions and compulsions.

• Medication: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), a type of antidepressant, are commonly prescribed to help manage OCD symptoms. They can help reduce the severity of obsessions and compulsions.

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT focuses on accepting intrusive thoughts without attempting to suppress them, while encouraging individuals to engage in actions aligned with their values.

• Mindfulness-based therapies: Practices such as mindfulness meditation can help individuals with OCD develop non-judgmental awareness of their thoughts and reduce reactivity to obsessions, thereby promoting psychological well-being.

OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive assessment conducted by a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. The diagnostic process involves several steps, including:

• Initial evaluation: The mental health professional will conduct an initial interview to gather information about the individual's symptoms, medical history, and any potential underlying causes or triggers. This may involve discussing the nature and duration of obsessions and compulsions, as well as their impact on daily functioning and overall well-being.

• Diagnostic criteria: The mental health professional will assess the symptoms and experiences reported by the individual against the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which is the standard classification system used by mental health professionals. The DSM-5 specifies the criteria necessary for a diagnosis of OCD.

• Differential diagnosis: The mental health professional will consider other mental health conditions that may present with similar symptoms, such as generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobias, or other anxiety disorders. They will carefully evaluate the symptoms to differentiate OCD from other possible conditions.

• Psychological assessment: In some cases, the mental health professional may administer psychological tests or questionnaires to gather additional information and gain a deeper understanding of the individual's symptoms, severity, and specific areas of difficulty. These assessments can provide valuable insights and aid in the diagnosis.

• Collaborative discussion: Once the evaluation is complete, the mental health professional will discuss their findings with the individual and collaboratively determine whether the symptoms align with a diagnosis of OCD. They may also discuss the severity of the symptoms, any co-occurring conditions, and potential treatment options.