"Unraveling the Intricacies: Understanding the Prevalence of OCD Among Youngsters"

OCD also known as Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an ailment in which people have recurring, undesirable thoughts, notions, or preoccupations. To rid themselves of thoughts, they feel compelled to do something repetitive (compulsions). Repetitive behaviors, such as washing/cleaning hands, checking things, and mental actions like (counting) or other activities, can significantly interfere with a person's day-to-day life.

The principal reason for obsessive-compulsive disorder is not thoroughly understood yet but the main theories include:

● Biology: OCD may result from modifications in your body's natural chemistry or brain functions.

● Genetics: OCD may have a hereditary element, but precise genes have yet to be recognized.

● Learning: Obsessive suspicions and compulsive demeanors can be retained from scrutinizing family members or gradually comprehend over the period.

Why is OCD more prevalent in Young adults?

Youngsters with OCD are not able to quench their disturbing and anxiety-provoking thoughts. Consequently, the only way they can try to control these obsessions, as we call them, is to engage in ritualistic behaviors known as compulsions. By repeating a behavior a certain number of times, ordering things in a very specific way, or otherwise obeying a set of rigid rules, they attempt to keep the anxiety of OCD at bay.

Research suggests that OCD is more common among men during childhood, whereas OCD among young women is more common during adolescence and young adulthood.

Young adults who have experienced childhood trauma, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, or loss of a parent, are at increased risk for developing OCD.

The National Institute of Mental Health claimed that individuals whose parents or other family members are affected by OCD are more likely to acquire the disorder.

Research shows that OCD may be related to abnormal structures or functions in the brain's frontal cortex and subcortical regions.

Pediatric auto-immune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS) refers to the development of OCD symptoms as a result of streptococcal infection. Researchers believe that PANDAS is a result of an autoimmune response to streptococcal infection that affects brain cells, resulting in ticks and other behaviors similar to OCD.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is often associated with other mental health problems, such as substance abuse disorder, eating disorders, trichotillomania (hairpuller), and excoriation (skin sampling disorder). In addition, OCD can be associated with neurologic disorders such as Tourette's syndrome. In addition, people who have OCD can suffer from depression or panic attacks.

Author: Preeti Piplani (2nd year, Zoology Undergrad, Miranda House, University of Delhi)

Editor: Robinson M (2nd year, Biomedical Science, NUCSER, Mangalore)