What is OCD? 

OCD stands for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. This mental illness consists of obsessions (intrusive ideas, images, or thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviours). This disorder will affect approximately 2-3% of Canadians at some point in their life. However, it is quite difficult to determine the exact prevalence of the disorder since there are probably many cases that are not reported because of the stigma of mental disorders. In about half of all these cases, the disorder started before the age of 18. In most cases, OCD gradually becomes worse as one ages. Although there is no cure for OCD, there are treatments available that have proven to be effective. Obsessions are intrusive and persistent thoughts that plague one's mind with worry and doubt. The sufferer has these thoughts over and over again and cannot stop them. They do not want to have these thoughts as they are distressing to them. Some common obsessions deal with contamination, doubts (such as whether they turned the stove off, locked the door, or unplugged the iron), and sexual and religious thoughts. Having these obsessions create much anxiety for the sufferer. Compulsions are sometimes done to relieve some of the anxiety created by the obsessions. Compulsions are repetitive behaviours that are performed and usually according to specific steps and rules. Some common compulsions are washing, checking, touching, and counting. While compulsions do relieve some of the anxiety it is only for a brief period of time. For both obsessions and compulsions, the sufferer knows that these thoughts and behaviours are unrealistic and irrational. It is as though their brain is hiccupping on the intrusive thought and keeps going over it again and again. OCD cases can range from being mild (taking up less than one hour a day) to quite severe and debilitating to the point where some people cannot even leave their house. Having obsessive compulsive disorder can interfere with one's work and one's relationship with family and friends. 

 

How is it Caused? 

While it is not fully known how OCD is caused there have been studies that have identified brain chemistry, genetics, and behavioural teachings at early ages and forces that could cause the onset of OCD. It appears that those who have OCD have a different brain structure and chemistry than those who do not have it. Those with OCD are said to have a communication problem between the front part and deeper parts of the brain. These parts of the brain use a chemical messenger called serotonin and those who have OCD are said to have insufficient levels of serotonin. It has also been seen that OCD is hereditary as the rate of immediate family members having OCD is higher than the possibility of having it by chance. Another suggestion on the cause of OCD is that people who have OCD may have experienced strict behaviour rules such as following certain religious or any other kind of beliefs. This may make people more vulnerable to these beliefs they had earlier experienced. 

 

Treatment 

There is no cure yet for OCD but there are treatment options which have proven to be effective. One option is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy also referred to as CBT. In CBT you learn to identify your compulsions and obsessions and the trigger which sets them off. In the behvioural treatment part of CBT you will also learn confront your compulsions and obsessions by "exposing" yourself to the situation which provokes anxiety and not performing the compulsion. The prevention and avoidance of these behaviours will also be worked on. The cognitive therapy aspect of CBT consists of identifying the obsessions and irrational thoughts, questioning them for their logic, and then learning how to challenge the thoughts so that they are not as instrusive. Another option is medication. The majority of medication that is prescribed to those who suffer from Obsessive Compulsive disorder are antidepressants. Some examples would be Celexa, Effexor, and Zoloft. Antidepressants are used for OCD as they increase concentration of serotonin in the brain and improve symptoms of OCD. The most effective treatment option has been a combination of both Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and medication. However it is up to the individual to determine what type of treatment to have and this should be discussed with a doctor. 

 

Getting Help 

If you think you may have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder you should speak with your doctor who may then refer you to a counsellor or therapist. If you are currently at school you can speak with a counsellor at school for help.

 

Note: This has just been an overview of this condition. For more information please contact your doctor.