Obsessive-compulsive disorder: Characteristics, causes and how to help

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is one of the most common mental disorders worldwide. About 2-3% of the world's population suffers from this disorder, or put another way, that's millions of people who struggle daily with symptoms such as intrusive thoughts and compulsive actions. This mental illness has a significant impact on quality of life, causing significant difficulties in social, professional and personal life.

The social significance of obsessive-compulsive disorder is immense, as those affected often suffer social isolation, loss of productivity and difficulties in relationships. Providing support to people with OCD is essential to improve their well-being and integration into society.

What is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic and often debilitating mental disorder characterised by intrusive thoughts and compulsive actions (compulsive rituals). These intrusive thoughts, also called obsessions, are repetitive, unwanted and often disturbing ideas and images that trigger strong sensations. Compulsions are repetitive rituals that the person performs to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsessions.

The term obsessive-compulsive disorder combines two basic concepts: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are intrusive thoughts that cause intense anxiety and discomfort. On the other hand, compulsions are repetitive actions or mental rituals that individuals feel the need to perform.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder: characteristics

Obsessive thoughts

One of the main characteristics of obsessive-compulsive disorder is obsessive thoughts. These are recurrent, unwanted and intrusive thoughts, images or impulses that cause significant anxiety and discomfort. These thoughts are often related to themes such as purity, symmetry, fear of harm, or aggressive impulses. Although people with OCD understand that these thoughts are irrational, they cannot control them and feel compelled to take action to relieve the anxiety.

Compulsive actions

Compulsions are the other key feature of the condition. They are repetitive actions or mental rituals that the individual performs to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsessions. Examples of compulsive actions include excessive hand washing, checking locks and appliances, counting objects, or repeating certain words or phrases. These actions are often performed ritually and usually interfere with daily activities and social life.

Anxiety and fear

The third main characteristic is related to intense feelings of anxiety and fear. These accompany obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions. Anxiety is the main driver of the mental disorder as obsessions and compulsions are fuelled by a continuous feeling of fear and anxiety. This can lead to significant distress that can negatively impact an individual's mental and physical health.

What are the causes of obsessive compulsive disorder?

The causes of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are complex and often involve a combination of genetic, neurobiological, psychological and social factors.

Genetic factors

Research has shown that genetics plays a significant role in susceptibility to OCD. Studies suggest that people with close relatives suffering from OCD have a greater risk of developing the mental disorder. Specific genes related to the regulation of neurotransmitters in the brain have been identified as potential contributors to the development of the disorder.

Neurobiological causes

Other research has revealed that dysfunctions in certain brain structures and neurochemical systems are associated with OCD. For example, abnormalities in corticostriato-thalamocortical circuits that control repetitive thoughts and actions are thought to be key in the pathophysiology of this mental disorder. Disturbances in serotonin, dopamine and glutamate levels may also play a role in the development of symptoms.

Psychological and social factors

Psychological and social factors also contribute to the development of this condition. Traumatic events, chronic stress and life changes can trigger or exacerbate the symptoms of the disorder. Certain cognitive attitudes, such as intrusive thoughts that something terrible is going to happen or the need for perfectionism, can increase the risk of developing OCD. Social factors also play an important role in coping with symptoms.

What is the behaviour of a person with obsessive-compulsive disorder in a state of crisis?

The crisis state of obsessive-compulsive disorder is characterized by an intense exacerbation of obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions. This leads to a significant disruption of the usual way of life in everyday life. In such a state, a person may experience an extremely high level of anxiety and stress, making it difficult to behave normally in the social, professional and personal spheres.

Symptoms and behaviour in crisis

In a state of crisis, the symptoms of OCD become more pronounced and more difficult to control. Obsessive thoughts can become so intrusive and persistent that the sufferer loses the ability to concentrate on other activities. Compulsive actions that usually serve to temporarily relieve anxiety may take longer and longer to perform and may occur with increasing intensity and frequency. For example, a person may spend hours checking doors, washing hands, or arranging objects.

Options for immediate help and support

In a state of crisis, immediate help and support are essential to stabilize a person's condition. Some of the first steps to help may include:

• Professional help: a professional examination by a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist who can provide assessment and treatment guidance. Medication therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy have been shown to be effective in managing OCD.

• Emergency Care: In cases of severe crisis, when the patient is at risk of self-harm, hospitalization or emergency intervention may be necessary.

• Support from loved ones: Family and friends play an important role by providing emotional support and assistance in accessing professional help.

How to start a charity campaign through the PavelAndreev.ORG digital platform?

Charity campaigns can play a key role in helping people suffering from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Such initiatives can raise funds for treatment, therapy and research that are essential to understanding and managing the mental disorder. In addition to financial support, charity campaigns raise awareness of the illness and promote social continuity and understanding. They thus help to reduce the stigma and isolation that often accompanies mental illness in general.

Start a campaign now.

The PavelAndreev.ORG digital platform as a tool for donations and support

PavelAndreev.ORG is an innovative digital platform designed to facilitate the organisation and management of charity campaigns. The platform provides the ability to create personalized donation campaigns so users can easily donate amounts and get informed about specific campaigns.

Advantages of the PavelAndreev.ORG platform:

• Easy registration.

• Flexible donation options.

• Customer support: The platform offers administrative support that is available to answer questions and resolve issues.

• Donation tracking: Donors can track their donations and receive real-time information on the progress of the campaign.

• Reporting and analytics: Campaigners have access to detailed reports that help them evaluate the effectiveness of their efforts and plan future initiatives.

• Social Sharing: The platform makes it easy to share campaigns across social networks, increasing visibility and reach to a wider audience.

• Secure transactions: the platform uses state-of-the-art technology to protect financial transactions and users' personal data.

• Confidentiality: Users' personal data is treated with a high level of confidentiality and used only for campaign purposes.

How to organize a charity campaign

Organizing a charity campaign involves several key steps that ensure the success of the initiative:

• Define the goal: Clearly define the goals of the campaign by identifying the specific amount you want to raise and what it will be used for. For example, funds to finance therapy sessions, purchase medication or organise educational seminars.

• Starting a campaign at PavelAndreev.ORG. Follow the steps. The platform guides and helps you. It is important to describe the goals of the campaign, the reasons for creating it and how the funds raised will be used. Add photos, videos and personal stories to engage prospective donors.

• Set a specific financial goal and deadline for the campaign.

• Use social media: Social media is a powerful tool to spread the word and attract donors. Share your campaign on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, Tik Tok and YouTube. Join groups and forums related to mental health and charity.

• Maintain regular communication: keep in touch with donors. Share campaign progress regularly, thank everyone involved and keep them informed of results. This will boost trust and community engagement.

People suffering from OCD need our understanding and support to be able to cope with daily challenges and lead fulfilling lives. Helping these people can come in a variety of ways, from emotional support to financial donations and participation in charitable campaigns. The PavelAndreev.ORG platform offers an easy and effective way to participate in such campaigns, providing the necessary funds and resources for people with OCD. Every donation, every story shared, and every campaign launched creates meaningful and lasting change for a better life for these people. Let's help together. Start a campaign now.