Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, is a condition where a person experiences obsessions or intrusive and unwanted thoughts followed by compulsions or repetitive behaviors. The cycle of obsessions and compulsions can cause a lot of added stress and disruptions in a person’s day, making it more difficult for them to function in their daily life and routine, including their careers and personal relationships.
People with OCD are typically aware of their obsessions and compulsions. They may even realize that they’re irrational, but despite that, they won’t be able to break the cycle, resist, or control them. So, what is a person supposed to do if they’re struggling with OCD?
One of the best first steps is determining what brings these obsessions and compulsions. Let’s learn more about what causes OCD.
Brain Chemistry
Research has found potential links between differences in brain structure and OCD. These studies have shown differences in the brain structure and functionality of a person with OCD. The main difference appears in the areas responsible for making decisions and controlling impulses. The neurotransmitters in the brain, glutamate, GABA, and serotonin, can influence OCD. When there are imbalances within the brain, it can lead to the compulsive behaviors that are seen in a person with OCD.
Environment
A person’s environment is one of the factors that can play a role in the development or triggering of OCD. Environmental factors like stressful life events, childhood experiences, illnesses, or trauma can contribute to or cause an increase in OCD symptoms. These are some of the most common and well-known environmental factors of OCD:
Stressful Life Events
- Financial struggles
- Job issues
- Living situation
- Relationship problems
Childhood
- Overcontrolling parents
- Overprotected parents
- Substance use or abuse in the family
Traumatic Events
- Abuse
- Neglect
- Witnessing violence
Genetics
Just like you may have the same eye color, hair color, body shape, or personality as some of your family members, OCD tends to run in families, too. Specific genes are involved in serotonin regulation that are believed to contribute to OCD. If one of your immediate family members dealt with obsessive-compulsive disorder, you’re more likely to experience the same.
Personality
Every person in the world has their own unique personality. There isn’t one specific personality trait that causes OCD. Still, certain personality traits and characteristics can make a person more susceptible to developing OCD or experiencing more severe symptoms of OCD. These traits and characteristics include:
- Conscientiousness
- Introversion
- Need for control
- Neuroticism
- Perfectionism
Next Steps
As you can see, there isn’t one specific cause of OCD. Several different factors can lead to this diagnosis. If you find yourself struggling with the symptoms of OCD, it’s essential to know that you’re not alone. OCD is a relatively common mental health condition.
While more research still needs to be done to better understand this condition, there are already many effective treatment options out there. You don’t have to continue to live with your obsessions or compulsions that are slowly taking over your life.
One of the most effective treatment options is cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, specifically, exposure and response prevention, or ERP. This approach may seem scary based on the name, but the exposure is done gradually and in a safe and secure environment with the help of a mental health professional.
A therapist will work with you to help you identify what may be triggering your OCD, helping you better manage your symptoms, and finding ways to move forward in your life. Asking for help can be uncomfortable, but we’ll be there to help you every step of the way. Reach out to us today to get started.