Contributing Factors In Developing OCD
Although it is not fully understood what causes OCD, it is believed that some factors may assist in triggering the development of OCD.
Underlying predispositions may be influenced by genetic & hereditary factors such as stressful life events, neurological & biological, autoimmune-related causes, hormonal changes and personality traits.
Neurological & Biological:
- structural changes in the brain as children get older
- unusually high brain activity
- low levels of the serotonin brain chemical
- functional abnormalities in the brain
Autoimmune-related:
Severe bacterial or viral infection may trigger OCD who are genetically predisposed to the disorder, including:
- strep infections
- lyme disease
- flu
Stressful life events:
- bullying
- abuse or neglect
- bereavement
- childbirth
- brain injury
- ptsd
Personality traits:
- meticulous & methodical people
- high personal standards
- propensity to be anxious
- strong sense of responsibility
Family:
Having family members with OCD can genetically increase your risk of developing OCD although specific genes have yet to be identified and people can learn OCD behaviour from watching family members.