What Are The Causes of Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders?

The disorders within the Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum are complicated conditions which share many similarities. One of these similarities is that it isn’t entirely known what causes the conditions.

It appears that many different factors are involved in the onset of any Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum condition, with many potential triggers too.

What is the Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum?

Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum: The Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum consists of a range of conditions that share the hallmark of obsessive and compulsive behaviours. An obsession is an unwanted and unpleasant thought, doubt, image or urge that repeatedly enters a person’s mind. A compulsion is a repetitive action that the person then carries out to temporarily relieve the anxiety brought on by the obsession. There are many conditions that fall into this category – with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) the most well-known.

What are some potential causes of obsessive-compulsive Spectrum disorders?

Many possible factors are involved in the onset of Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum disorders:

• Stress: Intense stress is a key factor in several conditions. When an individual is feeling stressed, it can often result in unpredictable behaviours, which may soon spiral into obsessions and compulsions. Major life events like divorce, losing a job or having a child, can all cause stress.
• Genetics: It appears that genetics also plays a role. Those with a family history of Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum disorders are at heightened risk. The disorders can run in families. It doesn’t appear any certain gene is responsible.  
• Chemical Imbalance: It is possible that Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum disorders are linked to a chemical imbalance in the brain. Chemicals like norepinephrine and serotonin may be unbalanced – which may contribute to the condition. This isn’t entirely understood however, but is linked to several mental health conditions.
• Brain Differences: Similar to the above, brain scans suggest that some areas of the brain are different in those with an Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum disorder. These areas react differently to stimuli, with their abnormality a possible cause [1].
• Traumatic Event: A traumatic event, or physical, sexual or emotional abuse can all cause intense distress – which can lead to a mental health condition developing.
• Illness: Some illnesses may lead an individual to change their behaviour – which may result in an adoption of obsessive-compulsive behaviour. For instance, someone who often catches the common cold may start to batten down the hatches in their home – trying to keep outsiders out, and their rooms clean. They may start to spend excessive time washing their hands, and imploring others to do so.
• Personality Traits: Certain personality traits, such as high attention to detail, methodical ideas or a high level of organisation, low self-esteem or anxiety, can all contribute to a Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum disorder developing. For example, someone with low self-esteem will be more vulnerable to developing Body Dysmorphic Disorder.
• Substance Abuse: It is possible that substance abuse can result in behaviours that involve obsessions and compulsions.  

Summary

A lot of the time there is no one singular cause of a mental health condition. As mentioned earlier, many of these factors may contribute, with some people more vulnerable than others to developing a condition.

Regardless of the cause, the most important thing is for a person to get treatment. This can aid their recovery.

See Also

1. Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders: Everything You Need to Know
2. What Are The Different Types of Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders?
3. What Are The Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders?
4. What Are The Causes of Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders?
5. How are Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders Diagnosed?
6. How Can Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders be Treated?
7. What is the Prognosis for Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders?
8. 10 Tips for Living With Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders