Obsessive-compulsive disorder
OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD) IS CHARACTERISED BY PERSISTENT, INTRUSIVE THOUGHTS (OBSESSIONS) AND REPETITIVE BEHAVIOURS OR MENTAL ACTS (COMPULSIONS) PERFORMED TO ALLEVIATE ANXIETY OR DISTRESS.
OCD exists on a spectrum — some individuals experience mild intrusive thoughts that interfere little with daily life, while others may find compulsive behaviours consuming and distressing. The condition affects approximately 2–3% of the population and often begins in childhood or adolescence.
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While conventional treatments such as medication and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help, many people continue to experience residual symptoms. This highlights the importance of exploring underlying contributors — including inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, gut-brain imbalances, and infections — that can influence brain chemistry and stress response.
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At Re:Health, we take a root-cause, integrative approach to OCD, combining the latest insights from Integrative and Nutritional Psychiatry with Functional Medicine principles to support brain and nervous system balance.
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 for OCD often involves selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). 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 draw on principles of Integrative Psychiatry and Functional Medicine to explore patterns and imbalances that may contribute to OCD symptoms. Our personalised, science-informed 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.