Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by distressing intrusive thoughts and behaviors meant to provide relief. These compulsive actions become habit in OCD because they only work for a short time. The obsessions keep coming back louder and more intense. People with a family history of OCD are most likely to develop it, but it can happen to anyone. Other factors like stress and exposure to toxins also play an important role. Recent studies have started to explain the interaction between these factors.
OCD only occurs in about 1% to 3% of people in their lifetime. For this small group of people, OCD can be very debilitating. Understanding more about who gets OCD and why can help us make sure people receive the treatment they need.
In this blog post, we’ll talk about the heritability of OCD and other risk factors.
Research on OCD and family history
OCD has a heritability quotient of about 50%. This means family history is a moderate risk factor. Twin and family studies have found that risks are higher among immediate family members who have OCD than more distant relatives. Environmental factors are at least as important as heritability, but only when they’re not shared. Shared environmental risk factors have not shown a significant impact.
Genetic factors in OCD
Researchers have identified some genes that may play a role in predisposition to OCD. However, none of these studies have been conclusive. It’s likely that many genes are involved, possibly hundreds. Studies on epigenetics have shed some light on environmental factors that can change the expression of genes that may be associated with OCD. Genetic markers may help us determine the likelihood that certain treatments will be effective. They may also help us learn more about why people develop certain types of OCD symptoms.
OCD impacts a specific neural network in the brain related to task initiation and inhibition. People who have OCD show hyperactivity and heightened connectivity in this area. Imbalances in neurotransmitters like dopamine and glutamate may also be involved. OCD sometimes co-occurs with other neurological conditions that affect the same circuitry. These include Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, Tourette’s syndrome and others.
Environmental factors that interact with genetics
We’ve known for some time that genetics and environmental factors both influence the development of OCD. More recently, researchers have discovered that a person’s environment and experiences can actually “switch on” or “switch off” certain genes. DNA methylation is one process by which this happens. Stress and exposure to toxins like cigarette smoke or pollutants are known to affect DNA methylation.
So what kinds of environmental factors can contribute to OCD? Sometimes living with a caregiver who has OCD can lead to learned behaviors. Stress and traumatic experiences can be an influence. People often start showing signs of OCD after a stressful life event. Exposure to toxins and illnesses can also play a role. There are two variations of OCD that can develop virtually overnight in children. Pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS) is one. It’s a subset of pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS). Researchers think that PANS results from exposure to certain pathogens. However, no specific triggers have been identified and research is still ongoing. Plus, hypothesized autoimmune process is the subject of continued scientific investigation.
The bottom line for OCD diagnosis and treatment
Education about what symptoms look like and how to support a person with OCD begins with access to treatment. Communication about OCD can help families ensure that their loved ones understand the condition and find effective treatment when needed. People who have OCD usually know that their thoughts and behaviors aren’t like everyone else’s. They may feel a lot of shame and try to hide their symptoms, which delays diagnosis and treatment. The stigma around mental health conditions is pervasive. Even people who have some awareness about their condition need to feel accepted and supported.
While family history may influence your risk of developing OCD, it doesn’t determine your future or your potential for successful symptom management with proper treatment. Your environment, your experiences and your unique brain are all factors that may contribute. Protective factors like staying healthy and learning how to be more proactive about your mental health can help you keep your risk as low as possible.
Most people who have OCD need comprehensive treatment that includes medication and psychotherapy. At Lightfully, we provide whole-person-centered mental health treatment for OCD. Our Precision Care Model (PCM) combines evidence-based techniques to create a personalized treatment plan for each person. All of our programs include family therapy sessions so loved ones can learn how to best support each other.
Are you looking for an OCD treatment program right now? We can help. Reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team and get the conversation started.
