Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) affects millions of people worldwide. The OCD Foundation reported that “about 1 in 40 adults have OCD or will develop it at some point in their lives.” OCD involves unwanted, intrusive thoughts, and the urge to repeat certain behaviors. These habits can get in the way of everyday life, making even basic tasks feel stressful or hard to manage. But what causes OCD? Is it something people are born with or is it shaped by life experiences?

What Is OCD?

It’s important to understand what OCD isn’t just about being neat or liking things a certain way, but a mental health condition that can cause severe distress. People with OCD often recognize that their thoughts and behaviors are irrational, but feel powerless to stop them. These obsessions can range from fears of contamination to intrusive thoughts about harm, while the compulsions might include excessive handwashing, checking, or mental rituals aimed at neutralizing the anxiety caused by obsessions. The severity of OCD widely ranges. For some, OCD symptoms may be manageable, while others find them debilitating because they interfere with their ability to function in everyday life.

What Are The Genetic Factors Of OCD?

OCD is a complex mental health condition, and science has shown that genetics play a significant role in its development. Other factors such as childhood trauma, chronic stress, or certain infections like PANDAS in children can also trigger or worsen OCD symptoms. So what genetic factors contribute to developing OCD?

OCD Family Studies

Research involving families has shown that individuals who have a first-degree relative (such as a parent, sibling, or child) with OCD are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves. One study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that the risk of OCD was about 10 times higher for first-degree relatives compared to individuals without a family history of the disorder.

OCD Twin Studies

Twin studies have provided additional evidence for the genetic link to OCD. Identical twins, (who share nearly all of their genes) are more likely to both develop OCD when compared to fraternal twins, (who share about 50% of their genetic material). While this finding highlights a genetic link, the rates of concordance (both twins having OCD) aren’t 100%, emphasizing the role of non-genetic factors as well.

Genes Linked to OCD

Advancements in genetic research have identified several genes associated with an increased risk of OCD. One of those identified is variations in the serotonin transporter gene, SLC6A4. Other genes affecting glutamate⎯a brain chemical involved in neural communication have also been associated with OCD symptoms. Despite these findings, no single gene is the cause of OCD.

How Can Therapy Help You Manage OCD?

At Georgetown Psychology we work with you to give you the tools, support, and structure that will help you manage or break the OCD cycle (is this accurate)? Here are different therapeutic methods to treat OCD.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is one of the most effective treatments for OCD because it helps you understand the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By addressing disruptive thinking patterns, CBT focuses on challenging obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

ERP is a specific type of CBT that is highly effective and used to break the cycle of obsessions and compulsions by targeting the behaviors that keep the OCD cycle going. ERP involves gradually exposing an individual to the situations or thoughts that trigger their obsessions, while guiding them on how to resist acting on these compulsions. Over time, this exposure helps retrain the brain to tolerate discomfort, reduce fear, and weaken the link between obsessions and compulsions. It’s about learning that nothing catastrophic happens even if rituals are not performed.

SPACE Therapy

In addition to addressing OCD directly, those around you can help by participating in the SPACE program. SPACE, which stands for Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions, was developed for parents and caregivers as a stand alone treatment to reduce childhood anxiety and OCD by changing their own behaviors. SPACE was developed by Dr. Eli Lebowitz at the Yale Child Study Center. This evidence-based treatment flips the traditional model of child therapy on its head by focusing on parents. While the child or teen is the “patient”, it’s the parents who attend treatment sessions. SPACE empowers parents with the tools and strategies to create lasting change at home, building their child’s confidence while reducing the patterns that keep anxiety stuck in place.

How To Start Therapy For OCD At Georgetown Psychology

OCD can feel like a heavy burden that you carry around daily, but with the right tools and support, you can heal. Our therapists work with you to tailor treatment to your specific needs, symptoms, and goals. If you have any questions or are ready to get started, schedule a consultation call by calling us at (202) 333-6251 or filling out our form.