Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Nov 5, 2024

Lecture on Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Introduction

  • Double checking is common but can become excessive.
  • Excessive checking or rituals might indicate OCD.

What is OCD?

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): An anxiety disorder characterized by obsessions and/or compulsions.
  • Obsessions: Recurrent, intrusive, and unwanted thoughts causing anxiety.
    • Example: Thoughts that one's house is unsafe.
  • Compulsions: Actions performed to reduce anxiety from obsessions.
    • Example: Repeatedly checking if a door is locked.

Impact of OCD

  • Can significantly affect daily life.
  • Affects about 3% of the population equally among men and women.
  • Often begins in childhood or adolescence.
  • Notable figures with OCD include David Beckham, Howie Mandel, and Howard Hughes.

Clinical Presentation

  • Not necessary to have both obsessions and compulsions for diagnosis.
  • Common Compulsions:
    • Cleaning (often from a germ obsession).
    • Checking (due to safety obsessions).
    • Repeating actions or phrases.
    • Arranging or ordering objects.
  • Mental Rituals:
    • Attempting to replace bad thoughts with good ones.

Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5)

  1. Presence of obsessions, compulsions, or both.
  2. Obsessions/compulsions are time-consuming and distressing, impacting social/work life.
    • Example: Spending hours arranging clothes.
  3. Obsessions/compulsions not due to substances or other medical conditions.
  4. Symptoms not explained by other mental disorders.

Causes of OCD

  • No single known cause.
  • Possible genetic and environmental factors.
  • Familial prevalence and twin studies suggest a genetic component.
  • Abnormal serotonin neurotransmission may play a role.

Treatment

  • Psychotherapy:
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is effective.
    • Exposure and Response Therapy: Exposing patients to anxiety-triggering situations without allowing compulsions.
  • Medications:
    • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are effective.
    • Potential side effects require monitoring.
  • With proper treatment, patients can lead normal lives.