OCD, also known as obsessive-compulsive disorder, is a health condition where an individual experiences repetitive, intrusive thoughts and displays uncontrollable behavior. While some might show mild symptoms, others can suffer from unpleasant thoughts and behavior. This can highly affect their daily activities.
OCD can also be affected by other factors like depression, biological factors, stress, and even alcohol. Moreover, there is a strong connection between alcohol and OCD.
The correlation between Alcohol and OCD
OCD is affected by several factors in an individual. Studies show that genetics, cognitive function, and biology play a vital role in governing this health condition. Other environmental factors are also involved here such as:
- Chronic stress
- Trauma
- Depression
- Altering emotions
- Alcohol addiction
Out of these, alcohol is one of the major factors interfering with OCD. People consume alcohol as a means to cope with intrusive thoughts and disturbing feelings. This can surely be a solution for some time, however, the initial condition kicks back at the moment the influence of alcohol wears off.
Thus, instead of depending on alcohol as a medication to overcome OCD, it is better to approach professionals for a permanent cure.
How Does Alcohol Make OCD Worse?
Alcohol can be a means of self-medication to overcome OCD but it is surely not the right cure. The substance increases the serotonin levels or the happy hormones in your brain. This blocks negative thoughts, disturbing feelings, and other effects of OCD. however, as the effect of alcohol wears off, these feelings and emotions of OCD come rushing back.
The matters can eventually get worse. A few symptoms of OCD to be aware of are
- Unwanted thoughts on sexual and religious subjects
- Aggressive thoughts due to losing control
- Thoughts about shouting obscene statements when in public
- Repeating a prayer, word, or phrase in mind
- Counting in certain patterns
- Disturbing sexual images
- Fear of contamination
- Washing and cleaning
- Constant doubting
Although alcohol may seem a remedy for this disorder, it is not ideal. It surely helps for a while to put the above-mentioned symptoms at bay, but it cannot treat the disorder permanently. Thus, if you are looking for a permanent cure for OCD and alcohol addiction, the best is to approach a professional. You can visit Mallard Lake Detox Center in Dallas, Texas for thorough treatments and therapies.
Call our team today to schedule an appointment with our experts.