What is OCD?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a condition where people develop anxiety-producing thoughts (obsessions), which they may attempt to relieve by performing an action (compulsions).
The obsessions and/or compulsions are often time-consuming, distressing to the individual and interfere with their home, work, or social life.
OCD affects around 1 in 100 people in the UK.
What causes OCD?
The exact cause for this disorder is unknown but it is common in individuals who have OCD in their family or other mental health conditions. There is also an increase in incidence of OCD during pregnancy. Research suggests that OCD may be due to an imbalance in chemical messengers in the brain, including serotonin. In addition, the symptoms can be exacerbated by stress in individuals with OCD.
Symptoms of OCD
There are many types of OCD that can trigger different types of behaviour from unwanted obsessions. These obsessions are created by recurrent, anxiety-producing thoughts that cause marked distress. Most people with OCD recognise that these thoughts are irrational. Some common obsessions include:
- Fears about contamination with dirt or diseases
- Need for symmetry or exactness
- Worries about injury or harm to yourself or others
What is OCD behaviour?
Compulsions are repetitive behavioural or mental acts that a person with OCD feels they need to do to control their obsessions. By performing that compulsion, the individual feels like they can prevent their obsession from occurring or reduce the anxiety associated with it. However, they may lack any obvious link to the obsession. Some examples of OCD compulsions are:
- Cleaning
- Hand washing
- Ordering
- Hoarding
- Counting
- Repeating words
What is the best treatment for OCD?
Simple approaches including education and self-help can improve symptoms and reduce the impact on quality of life. Most patients will also benefit from an element of psychological therapy. The therapy which has the most evidence to support it is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with exposure and response prevention (ERP). Medication prescribed for OCD may involve the use of anti-depressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline, paroxetine). Neuromodulation in the form of transcranial magnetic stimulation or deep brain stimulation may be utilised in individuals who don’t respond to initial therapies. Medicinal cannabis can be considered when first-line therapies have not achieved adequate benefit in symptoms or quality of life.
How is OCD diagnosed?
OCD is diagnosed from a patient’s symptoms. Questionnaires are a commonly used tool to help assess the severity of OCD. They are also useful in monitoring response to treatment.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Medicinal Cannabis
Managing OCD requires a comprehensive approach, often involving a mix of therapy, medications and self-help strategies. For those whose symptoms persist despite first-line treatments, medical cannabis may be an option to explore.
If you’re looking at different ways to manage your OCD, consider registering with Curaleaf Clinic to see if you are eligible for a consultation. We’ll ask you a few questions about you and your condition and ask to see your medical records, which we can get on your behalf if you wish. We’re here to help put you back in control.
