Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
(OCD)
In this condition factsheet:
The Facts on Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic, potentially disabling anxiety disorder. This condition is characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) or certain behaviours that are repetitive and unnecessary but are extremely difficult to overcome (compulsions). People with OCD often feel powerless, distressed, and anxious because of the condition.
Generally, the obsessive rituals are performed privately because affected people believe others may not understand their feelings and behaviour. People with OCD also realize that their actions have no real purpose but still feel unable to stop.
OCD affects up to about 1% to 2% of the population and occurs in all ethnic groups. It is slightly more common for women, but the onset of symptoms begins earlier for men. It is sometimes confused with other anxiety disorders but, in reality, the condition is an illness that requires treatment. As many as 30% of people diagnosed with OCD also have a history of a tic disorder such as Tourette syndrome.
Causes of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
OCD is caused by a combination of biological, genetic, and environmental factors. Researchers have shown that changes in the level and balance of chemicals in the brain are associated with anxiety and related disorders. Research also indicates that OCD runs in families (i.e., it has a genetic component), and rarely, OCD can develop after certain childhood bacterial infections (streptococcal) or after brain or head injuries or traumas. Hormonal fluctuations may also cause the onset of OCD. However, more research is needed to understand these connections.
Symptoms and Complications of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
People with OCD may have symptoms of obsessions, compulsions, or both. They may have thoughts, urges, or images that repeat over and over in their heads despite their desire to stop. Their obsessions may not be as difficult to control in the beginning, but they usually progress to the point that they cause anxiety or distress.
Some common symptoms of compulsions include:
- a compulsion for consistency – following the same path daily when walking to work, or crossing the street at exactly the same spot every day
- a need for orderliness – a large amount of time is spent organizing and perfecting closet contents
- counting – brushing hair a particular number of strokes, or touching the table a certain number of times before it can be passed
Some common symptoms of obsessions include:
- concern about being attacked – door locks are checked several times before leaving the house or retiring for the night
- fear of fire – appliances are checked repeatedly to be sure they are turned off
- fear of losing control or fear of becoming angry
- intrusive sexual thoughts
While some habits or routines can have a place in everyday life, rituals that begin to disturb the quality of life become a problem. People with OCD are unable to skip any steps in the ritualistic behaviour because the compulsive thoughts will bother them until they perform the ritual exactly as they think it must be done. While they feel relieved after completing the series of actions, the relief is short-lived. They are soon compelled to repeat the ritual all over again.
Avoidance behaviour is a common complication of OCD as individuals attempt to prevent triggering obsessions or compulsions. Fear of contaminants can lead to avoidance of public spaces, while fear of unwanted thoughts about harm can lead to avoidance of social interactions.
