Obsessive-compulsive disorder
OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD) IS A CONDITION CHARACTERISED BY PERSISTENT, INTRUSIVE THOUGHTS (OBSESSIONS) AND REPETITIVE BEHAVIOURS OR MENTAL ACTS (COMPULSIONS) PERFORMED TO ALLEVIATE DISTRESS.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition characterised by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) performed to alleviate distress. OCD can be debilitating and significantly impact daily life, relationships, and well-being. It affects approximately 2-3% of the population, often starting in childhood or adolescence.
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While conventional treatments, such as medications and therapy, can help, many individuals do not experience complete relief, highlighting the need for a deeper exploration of contributing factors. Our approach is rooted in Integrative and Nutritional Psychiatry, offering a complementary perspective to help identify and address the root causes of OCD and optimise brain health.
Symptoms
INTRUSIVE AND UNWANTED THOUGHTS, IMAGES, OR URGES (OBSESSIONS)
REPETITIVE BEHAVIOURS OR RITUALS PERFORMED TO REDUCE ANXIETY (COMPULSIONS)
A SENSE OF BEING UNABLE TO CONTROL OBSESSIONS OR COMPULSIONS
SIGNIFICANT DISTRESS OR IMPAIRMENT IN DAILY FUNCTIONING
AVOIDANCE OF SITUATIONS THAT TRIGGER OBSESSIVE THOUGHTS OR COMPULSIVE BEHAVIOURS
CO-OCCURRING CONDITIONS SUCH AS ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, OR TICS
The conventional approach
Conventional treatment often involves selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP). While these can provide symptom relief, they may not address underlying imbalances that contribute to the persistence of OCD. Medications, though valuable as a "lifejacket," are not always sufficient to swim upstream to address the deeper causes of OCD.
Our approach
We adopt a root-cause approach to OCD, recognising that biochemical imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and environmental factors often play a role. Drawing on extensive training in Integrative Psychiatry, we combine evidence-based strategies to support lasting relief. Our approach includes:
SUPPORTING NEUROTRANSMITTER BALANCE
Supporting neurotransmitter balance, including serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate, which are linked to OCD symptoms.
INVESTIGATING NUTRIENT DEFICIENCIES
Investigating nutrient deficiencies, such as zinc, magnesium, and B vitamins, that affect neurotransmitter pathways.
OPTIMISING GUT-BRAIN HEALTH
Addressing gut health and inflammation, as the gut-brain axis plays a critical role in regulating compulsive behaviours and mental health.
ENVIRONMENTAL INFECTIONS
Exploring the role of infections (e.g., PANDAS in paediatric OCD) or environmental toxins in symptom onset or exacerbation.
ADDRESSING INFLAMMATION & OXIDATIVE STRESS
Assessing and supporting the body's response to oxidative stress, often elevated in OCD.
DIETARY APPROACHES
Implementing targeted dietary approaches, such as a ketogenic diet or low-glutamine diet, as appropriate, to support brain chemistry and reduce symptom intensity.
PERSONALISED NUTRITION
Developing personalised nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle strategies to support brain function and resilience.
This comprehensive approach complements conventional treatments, addressing root causes to empower you with sustainable solutions and improved quality of life.
