Research suggests that obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is partially linked to genetics, as having a family history of the condition increases a person’s risk for developing it themselves.1,2,3 However, there are many other contributing factors that play into the onset of symptoms, including trauma and family environment.
Do I have OCD?
The first step to getting help is an accurate clinical assessment and diagnosis. NOCD’s therapists will provide a comprehensive assessment of your experience. If they find that you do not meet the criteria for OCD, they will still help assist you in identifying what you may be experiencing. Get Started With A Free 15 Minute Call
What Is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental illness characterized by obsessions, (unwanted intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (rigid and repetitive behaviors). Compulsions develop as someone attempts to rid themselves of or cope with the anxiety caused by obsessions.4 OCD is one of the most debilitating forms of mental illness, and often causes people extreme distress and impairment. The symptoms of OCD generally begin emerging in childhood or adolescence.1,2,5
A person’s specific obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors can vary depending on the type of OCD they experience. For example, someone with contamination OCD may struggle with intrusive thoughts about germs and bacteria, resulting in compulsive hand-washing, disinfecting, or cleaning. Someone else might have relationship OCD and perform mental rituals to try to calm their obsessions about being in the wrong partnership. Without treatment, OCD symptoms can worsen to the point where the condition consumes the majority of a person’s time and energy.4,6
Is OCD Genetic?
Studies indicate that having a close family member with OCD, such as a parent or sibling, more than doubles a person’s likelihood of developing the disorder.1 Further results suggest this possibility may actually be much higher, showing that there can be a genetic component to developing OCD.2,3 Additionally, research into molecular genetics has identified specific genes that may be involved in OCD. Still, this does not guarantee that a person will develop the condition just because another close family member has it.5,7,8
Other Biological Risk Factors for Developing OCD
There are several other biological factors that increase the risk of developing OCD. There is some research suggesting edema, excessive weight gain, and complicated, prolonged labor during pregnancy may increase the risk of OCD in offspring. However, this thesis needs to be proven in future studies.8 Additionally, giving birth may trigger postpartum OCD.5
Additionally, some people may develop OCD after contracting certain illnesses, such as strep infection. Studies indicate that while infection doesn’t necessarily cause OCD, it can trigger the onset of OCD in children who are genetically predisposed.9
Certain personality traits may increase a person’s risk as well, such as high levels of perfectionism, conscientiousness, and neuroticism.9
Treatment For OCD
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Environmental Causes of OCD
It is theorized that genetic and biological predispositions for OCD can be “activated” by certain stressful events or circumstances. Some of these risk factors are common to many mental illnesses, while others are unique to OCD.
Environmental risk factors of OCD may include:5,7,9
- Experiencing trauma in childhood
- Having an overprotective parent
- Heavy substance use in adolescence
- Experiencing many major life events and changes at once
- Being the victim of rape or sexual assault
- Separation anxiety in children and teens
- High levels of toxic stress
- Having another co-occurring mental health condition
The Impact of Environmental Factors on Developing OCD
“Genetic factors alone typically do not induce OCD, rather they interact with environmental factors to influence a person’s risk of OCD. We know this because if one identical twin has OCD, the co-twin does not have OCD 100% of the time – it is closer to 40%. In other words, simply having a genetic predisposition to OCD is usually not sufficient to induce OCD. For example, an individual may inherit a genetic predisposition to OCD but not develop the disorder until they have been exposed to one or more environmental factors, such as a stressful life event, particular infections, or childbirth. In this way, scientists believe genes and the environment interact in complex ways throughout development and adulthood.
Thankfully, some environmental “resilience” factors, such as active coping, cognitive flexibility, and social support, can act to decrease risk of some psychiatric disorders, and research is currently underway to determine what factors may decrease risk of OCD. In conclusion, DNA is generally not destiny in OCD – thankfully, there are other risk factors that may be modifiable.” – James J. Crowley, PhD, Associate Professor Departments of Genetics & Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Department of Clinical Neuroscience at Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden13
What Are the Chances of Passing OCD to My Child?
If you are diagnosed with OCD, it does not mean that your child will develop it themselves, even if they’re genetically predisposed. In some cases, it is possible to offset genetic risks with protective factors.5,7 It’s important to remember that if your child does experience OCD, there are many effective treatments available. OCD symptoms can often be managed or even overcome with early treatment.10,11
What is the best therapy for OCD?
Exposure And Response Prevention Therapy (ERP) – Do live video sessions with a therapist specialized in ERP, the gold standard treatment for OCD. Treatment from NOCD is covered by many insurance plans. Start With A Free 15 Minute Call
Treatment for OCD
While there is no cure for OCD, there are several effective treatments for OCD. Therapy is considered the frontline approach, but may sometimes be combined with medication. In therapy, people learn how to cope with obsessive thoughts without relying on compulsive behaviors. Breaking compulsive habits slows or halts the progression of OCD symptoms for many, and is an important aspect of managing the condition.10
Therapy for OCD
Certain types of therapy have proven effective for individuals with OCD, including:10,11
- Exposure and response prevention (ERP),
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for OCD
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
OCD is commonly misdiagnosed, so it’s important to find the right therapist who specializes in treating the condition to obtain an accurate diagnosis.12 Many people begin their search by using an online therapist directory that allows them to filter results based on location, insurance, and specific treatment needs.
Medication for OCD
In addition to therapy, some individuals with OCD also benefit from psychiatric medication. Antidepressants are generally the most common type of medication for OCD prescribed. However, benzodiazepines, antipsychotic medications, or anticonvulsant medications are sometimes recommended if antidepressants aren’t alleviating symptoms.10
Medications may help people with OCD reduce obsessive thoughts, anxiety, and urges to engage in compulsive behaviors. Because OCD often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions, prescriptions may be needed to help reduce symptoms of accompanying disorders as well.10
Final Thoughts
OCD is a mental health condition that is believed to be hereditary. A genetic predisposition can be compounded by certain environmental risk factors like trauma, high levels of stress, or substance use.5,7,9 If you are struggling with OCD, seeking therapy is recommended as it can greatly reduce your symptoms and improve overall well-being.10,11
Additional Resources
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OCD Therapy
NOCD: Effective, Affordable, & Convenient OCD Therapy Do live, face-to-face video sessions with a therapist who specializes in treating OCD and get 24/7 support between sessions. NOCD is covered by many insurance plans and is available nationwide. Visit NOCD
Virtual Psychiatry
Talkiatry Get help from a real doctor who takes your insurance. Talkiatry offers medication management and online visits with expert psychiatrists. Take the online assessment and have your first appointment in days. Free Assessment
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Why OCD Thoughts Feel Real
Every day, from the time I wake up to the time I go to bed, I’m overwhelmed by disturbing thoughts that I don’t want to have. They’re usually about things that matter a lot to me, and I’ve started doing specific things (sometimes over and over) just to make sure the thoughts won’t come true. I’ve also been avoiding situations that might bring the thoughts back. Why do I feel like this all the time? If you’re asking yourself this, you’re not alone.
What is Exposure & Response Prevention Therapy?
ERP therapy alters OCD’s pattern by addressing both obsessions and compulsions. In ERP, an individual is encouraged to confront the stimuli that trigger distress related to their obsessions while also resisting the urge to perform compulsions in an attempt to reduce their distress.
Here is What A Typical Journey Through ERP Therapy Looks Like
If you’ve looked into help for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), you’ve probably seen references to exposure and response prevention. ERP is the gold standard for OCD treatment. ERP therapy teaches you how to manage your OCD thoughts, images, and urges so they eventually stop bothering you as much. This lets you overcome your fear responses and regain the control that OCD tries to take away.