Obsessive Compulsive Disorder J u l i a n R a n d a l l

What is OCD ? Obsessive Compulsive Order is a disorder by which one consistently withholds and displays irrational thoughts and behaviors.

What are the causes ?  Chemical imbalance in the brain  Brain dysfunctions (Example – Basal Ganglia, Frontal Bones)  Brain Injuries Note: Contrary to popular belief, OCD is not ultimately inherited. However, scientific studies have proven that if an immediate family member has it, there’s a 25% chance that you or another family member will have the disorder.

How common is OCD ? Obsessive Compulsive disorder is commonly misdiagnosed, and underdiagnosed. Most of the time people either acknowledge a minor symptom of OCD, but don’t think they have it. Or they notice a minor symptom of OCD, and exaggerate it and eventually become misdiagnosed.

Signs & Symptoms Signs  Pervasive Development Disorder  Tourette’s Disorder  Autism Symptoms  Constant arrangement of objects  Repeatedly checking on things  Fear of harming others  Often feeling contaminated or dirty

Who’s at risk?  Those whose immediate family members have OCD  Age group: very early child hood – adolescence  Children born with brain injuries, dysfunctions, imbalances, etc.

Prevention & Treatment  Behavioral therapy (MOST EFFECTIVE  Medications - antidepressants  Regular Exercise - physician recommended  Enough Sleep - physician recommended  Healthy Diet - physician recommended

Works Cited  ve_Disorder_(OCD).htm ve_Disorder_(OCD).htm Citation  Rapoport, Judith, M.D. "NAMI - The National Alliance on Mental Illness." NAMI. Apr Web. 26 Mar