What Causes OCD: The Contributing Factors Explained
When you were young, you remember seeing your mom always get mad when you would get dirty. She would scrub your hands after being outside then continue to wash her own to the point it looked painful. You didn’t like how it felt, so you began avoiding anything dirty.
Now, as an adult, you find yourself constantly carrying hand sanitizer, wiping it on your hands after touching any public surface. Once at home, you wash your hands diligently to get all the dirt and germs off your hands before touching anything.
While these behaviors do not necessarily indicate an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), there is a connection. A study highlighted the lifetime prevalence rate of OCD was 2%-3%, while the prevalence in first-degree family members ranged between 10% and 11%. Did you inherit OCD from your mom?
Clean Recovery Centers is well-versed in mental health conditions and understands the complexities behind their causes. Today, we are looking at what causes OCD and how different factors can have an influence.
What Triggers OCD? Exploring the Roots
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that revolves around obsessive thoughts and behavioral compulsions. OCD can affect anyone, with the average age of diagnosis being 19. However, OCD can be diagnosed as early as ages 6-7.
The causes behind most mental health conditions are not completely known, with obsessive-compulsive disorder being no different. OCD and its complexities have long been studied to find the root of where the disorder begins. The consensus is there is a combination of genetics, environmental triggers, and chemical imbalances within the brain. Let’s discuss these further.
OCD and Brain Chemistry: The Neurotransmitter Connection
The brain is made of various regions and open spaces that require neurotransmitters to transport messages. The neurotransmitter serotonin has been linked to OCD as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been proven effective in treating the condition.
Studies on serotonin function in blood and cerebral spinal fluid have not given clear results in those with OCD. Research suggests that the serotonin system might be unbalanced, showing strong reactions in behavior and weaker responses in hormone regulation when serotonin is activated. However, there are still some unclear findings. While improving serotonin activity can help alleviate OCD symptoms, it does not prove that serotonin dysregulation is the main cause of OCD. This is especially true as serotonin also affects other systems that might play a bigger role.
The Genetic Link to OCD: Inherited Traits or Coincidence?
It is estimated that between 10%-20% of children who have a parent with OCD will develop the condition themselves. However, this does not conclude that genetics are the sole cause of OCD, as many children will not develop the condition as well.
A collective of three studies aimed to find a genetic linkage that shows a predisposition to OCD. The first study examined 50 sibling pairs with one in each having an OCD diagnosis. Suggestive linkage was noted in the 9p24 region of chromosome 9p. The second study included a larger number of candidates, with suggestive linkage on chromosomes 3q27-28, 6q, 7p, 1q, and 15q. There was no link to the 9p chromosome. The final study showed suggestive linkage on chromosome 10p15. Despite all three studies suggesting genetic linkage, no study had indications in the same chromosomal regions. This shows the need for further research and genetic testing to understand the genetic link to OCD.
Environmental Triggers of OCD: Nature Meets Nurture
While biology plays a significant role in shaping susceptibility, environmental triggers can impact the development of OCD. Stressful or traumatic events are among the most prevalent causes of OCD. Experiences such as the loss of a loved one, physical or emotional abuse, or past trauma can lead to the emergence or worsening of OCD symptoms.
Childhood experiences are particularly crucial in shaping mental health. Overly critical or controlling parenting styles, although not directly causing OCD, may contribute to the development of perfectionistic tendencies or excessive self-doubt, which are common in people living with OCD. Environmental influences may also shape how the brain processes fear, anxiety, and reward, reinforcing compulsive behaviors over time.
OCD and PANDAS/PANS: When Infections Influence Behavior
OCD can sometimes emerge or intensify following certain infections, particularly in children. Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) are two conditions that can affect the immune system, which can trigger OCD-like symptoms. These disorders demonstrate how physical health and the immune response can have a lasting impact on mental health.
PANDAS occurs when strep bacteria hide along cell walls to stay under the radar of the immune system. This allows them to achieve “molecular mimicry” and keeps the bacteria in the body for a long period. However, the immune system eventually recognizes strep bacteria as a foreign body, sending the message to create antibodies. Because the strep molecules look the same as the healthy molecules in the child’s tissues, the antibodies attack both, known as cross-reactive antibodies. They not only go after the strep bacteria molecules but move to where similar molecules are such as in the brain.
When a child has PANDAS, they will develop OCD-like symptoms, possibly with motor tics, abruptly. The change in mental behavior is one of the first signs medical professionals look for in diagnosing PANDAS. The age most commonly affected is children between 3 years old and pubescent age.
Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) is a condition that occurs in children. PANS is characterized by a sudden onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms, such as extreme food restriction, obsessions, or compulsions. While it may resemble OCD or eating disorders, its rapid onset distinguishes PANS from these conditions. Additional symptoms can include depression, anxiety, irritability, and academic difficulties. The exact cause is unknown, though it is believed to involve infections, metabolic changes, or inflammatory reactions.
Hidden Risks and Lesser-Known Causes of OCD
Other lesser-known causes can lead to developing OCD. Hormonal changes, particularly during periods of significant hormonal fluctuation, can lead to OCD symptoms. Perinatal OCD can develop during pregnancy or during the postpartum period and often involves intrusive thoughts related to harm coming to the baby. Similarly, hormonal imbalances during adolescence may exacerbate preexisting OCD tendencies or lead to new symptom onset.
A risk of possibly developing OCD is experiencing a traumatic brain injury (TBI). One study showed a teenage boy with injuries sustained to the orbitofrontal cortex and left temporal lobe. He then developed a contamination fear and the compulsion to check cleanliness. The determination needed to be made if the boy had developed OCD from the TBI or if he had TBI cognitive impairment. Cognitive behavioral therapy was administered and was unsuccessful. Though OCD can be a result of a TBI, TBI can result in cognitive impairment. Understanding the two outcomes is necessary to provide proper treatment.
Treatment Options for OCD in Tampa, FL
You may not be able to control what led to your OCD, but you hold the power to decide how you handle it. Seeking OCD treatment will help you understand your symptoms and learn techniques to manage them in the future. Therapies, medications, and coping skill classes will give you insight into your obsessions and compulsions, making them more manageable for your future. OCD may be lifelong, but with the proper care, you can keep symptoms at bay and live a fulfilling and meaningful life.
If you or someone you love is currently trying to manage OCD symptoms, seeking help can make them more bearable. At Clean Recovery Centers, we provide a comprehensive mental health program designed specifically for individuals managing OCD. Our treatment includes personalized plans crafted to help you achieve your unique goals, featuring both one-on-one therapy sessions and group support led by certified professionals. Take the first step toward healing by calling us today at (888) 330-2532 to explore our mental health services.
Get clean. Live clean. Stay clean.
