Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition where individuals experience intrusive, anxiety-inducing thoughts (obsessions), often followed by repetitive actions or rituals (compulsions) to alleviate the distress caused by these thoughts. These behaviours can become time-consuming, highly distressing, and disruptive to daily life at home, work, or in social situations.OCD affects approximately 1 in 100 people in the UK.

What Causes OCD?

The precise cause of OCD remains unclear. However, it is more common in individuals with a family history of OCD or other mental health disorders. OCD may also emerge or worsen during pregnancy. Research suggests that OCD is linked to an imbalance in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, in the brain. Additionally, stress can exacerbate symptoms in people already prone to OCD.

Symptoms of OCD

OCD manifests in various forms, with different types of obsessions and compulsions. The obsessions are repetitive, anxiety-provoking thoughts that cause significant emotional distress, even though the person with OCD typically recognises that the thoughts are irrational. Common obsessions include:

• Fear of contamination by dirt or disease

• A need for symmetry or precision

• Worries about harm or injury to oneself or others

OCD Behaviours

Compulsions are repetitive actions or mental rituals that a person with OCD feels compelled to perform to manage their obsessions. These behaviours are intended to prevent the feared event or reduce anxiety but are often unrelated to the obsession. Common examples of compulsions include:

• Cleaning or hand washing

• Arranging or ordering items

• Hoarding

• Counting

• Repeating words or phrases

What is the Best Treatment for OCD?

Treatment for OCD often involves a combination of self-help, education, and professional therapy. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with exposure and response prevention (ERP) is widely regarded as the most effective psychological approach. In some cases, medications such as antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline, paroxetine) may be prescribed. For individuals who do not respond to these treatments, advanced options such as transcranial magnetic stimulation or deep brain stimulation may be considered.

Medicinal cannabis is another option that may be explored when first-line therapies have not provided sufficient relief.

How is OCD Diagnosed?

OCD is diagnosed based on the patient’s symptoms and history. Questionnaires are often used to assess the severity of symptoms and track progress throughout treatment.

Medicinal Cannabis and OCD

Although research on medicinal cannabis for OCD is still limited, the legalisation of cannabis for medical use in the UK in 2018 has led to growing interest in its potential benefits for managing OCD symptoms. When traditional therapies have not been effective, medical cannabis may be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

For further details on medicinal cannabis and whether it might be suitable for your condition, you  may complete an eligibility assessment to see if you qualify for an appointment with one of our clinicians.