There are many theories about what causes OCD. However, the cause of OCD is not fully understood as multiple factors – both environmental and biological, may be involved. These include brain functioning (for example, certain brain circuits (that help you decide to ignore or turn off urges) are not functioning. Also lower levels of serotonin (chemicals in the brain that help send messages between the brain cells) have been found with OCD. This is why medications which increase amounts of Serotonin like SSRI’s help.
There can also be an inherited predisposition to develop OCD which maybe triggered (not caused) by environmental stressors. While many sufferers of OCD report a gradual onset and cannot identify a trigger, a large proportion of clients report acute onset following a significant life event. For example, some report the onset or worsening of symptoms coincided with pregnancy or the post-partum period.
Even though the exact cause of OCD is not known, it is clear what maintains this condition – rituals and avoidance. Thus, therapy can teach the OCD sufferer ways of managing and reducing this chronic condition. For more information about the best treatments for OCD, see my article.
There can also be an inherited predisposition to develop OCD which maybe triggered (not caused) by environmental stressors. While many sufferers of OCD report a gradual onset and cannot identify a trigger, a large proportion of clients report acute onset following a significant life event. For example, some report the onset or worsening of symptoms coincided with pregnancy or the post-partum period.
Even though the exact cause of OCD is not known, it is clear what maintains this condition – rituals and avoidance. Thus, therapy can teach the OCD sufferer ways of managing and reducing this chronic condition. For more information about the best treatments for OCD, see my article.
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