What is OCD? A Brief Overview

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterized by intrusive, distressing thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that an individual feels compelled to perform. These obsessions and compulsions can significantly interfere with daily life and cause considerable anxiety.¹

The Mechanism of OCD

OCD stems from certain parts of the brain becoming overactive, sending out messages of danger and causing a cycle of anxiety. Imagine your brain constantly signaling that something is wrong or that something bad will happen unless a specific action is taken.² This continuous alert system traps individuals in a loop of obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions.

Understanding the OCD and the Brain

Modern technology, like PET scans, has shown that certain areas of the brain are overactive in individuals with OCD.³ This overactivity is not a choice or fault of the individual; it occurs as part of their brain's functioning. Imagine these overactive areas as constantly sparking thoughts that the person feels they must address, fueling the cycle of OCD.

The Cycle of OCD

The cycle of OCD begins with an obsessive thought, such as a fear of contamination. This thought generates anxiety, prompting a compulsive behavior to reduce the anxiety. For example, someone may wash their hands repeatedly to alleviate fears about germs. In many cases, the individual may recognize that their obsessive thoughts are unrealistic or that their compulsive behaviors are excessive, but will nonetheless experience heightened anxiety which perpetuates the anxiety cycle.

Is There a Link Between OCD and Anxiety?

OCD is closely related to anxiety. Two main factors contribute to the onset of OCD:

• Genetics: OCD often runs in families, suggesting a hereditary component.
• Perfectionism: A propensity for perfectionism and a need for certainty can exacerbate OCD symptoms.³

These factors can make the brain more likely to send out false danger signals, triggering obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions.

Conclusion

OCD is a complex disorder rooted in both genetic and environmental factors. Understanding the basic mechanisms of OCD can be a stepping stone towards better recognition and treatment. If you or someone you know may be dealing with OCD, seeking help from a licensed mental health provider can help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Sources:

1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2022, September). Obsessive-compulsive disorder. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd
2. National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2024, April 9). Obsessive-compulsive disorder. Obsessive-compulsive Disorder. https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/obsessive-compulsive-disorder/
3. Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders. (2024). Understanding OCD. https://med.stanford.edu/ocd/about/understanding.html