About 1.2 million people in South Africa suffer from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a mental health illness that affects roughly 2-3% of the country's population.

This illness is characterised by recurrent, intrusive thoughts (called obsessions) and repetitive actions or ideas (called compulsions) that people feel driven to carry out to reduce their worry or distress.

 

Although the precise origin of OCD is not entirely known, research points to several causes, including:

• Environmental factors: Stressful life events or trauma may trigger OCD in susceptible individuals 

• Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin, play a role in OCD.

• OCD tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component.

 

The symptoms

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Although OCD can present itself in a variety of ways, common signs and symptoms include:

• Fear of infection causing frequent hand washing

• Regular inspection (of locks, appliances, etc.)

• Persistent ideas of injury or violence

 

These compulsive behaviours and obsessions can be time-consuming and seriously disrupt relationships, jobs, and daily life. 

 

Treatment options

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Mental health practitioners can diagnose OCD through clinical observations and interviews. 

 

Medication and psychotherapy are usually combined in treatment:

• Drugs: When treating OCD, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, are usually the first drugs used. Approved drugs in South Africa include Luvox, Prozac, Cipramil, Aropax, Anafranil, and Zoloft. The antidepressant is sometimes augmented with a medication form another class (e.g., risperidone).

• CBT, or cognitive-behavioral therapy: Treating OCD is a very successful use of this type of treatment, especially Exposure and Response Prevention (E/RP). It gradually introduces the person to frightening stimuli while avoiding the typical obsessive reaction.

• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a new, effective treatment, but it has yet to be readily available.

 

 

Getting help

OCD sufferers in South Africa can benefit from the following strategies to help control their illness:

• Consult a psychologist or psychiatrist for professional assistance.

• Join support groups; materials are available from the South African Depression and Anxiety Group

• Use relaxation and mindfulness practices.

• Take up hobbies and work out frequently

• Inform loved ones and friends about the illness