"If I touch this object 3 times, my next meeting will be successful." These rituals, sometimes perceived as harmless superstitions, sometimes hide a more complex reality: the Obsessive compulsive disorder (TOC). Often confused with simple perfectionism, OCD is an anxious disorder that causes invisible but very real suffering. What are the signs that differentiate a habit from a pathology? How to diagnose and treat it? What if the CBD offered therapeutic hope? Immersed in the mechanisms of a disorder that affects 2 to 3 % of the population.
Perfectionism or TOC: learn to distinguish
The superstitious rituals ("carry this lucky bracelet to succeed") are part of our daily life. As long as they do not prevent our well-being, they remain harmless. Perfectionism can even be a professional asset. But When these behaviors generate anxiety, guilt or isolation, the border with the TOC is emerging.
The real marker of the TOC
- Rituals irrepressible (repeated washes, compulsive checks)
- A awareness of absurdity acts, associated with a shame
- A significant impact on social, emotional or professional life
TOC: mechanisms and symptoms
Obsessions vs compulsions
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Obsessions : Intrusive thoughts ("What if I contaminated my loved ones?") Taking out fear or guilt.
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Compulsions : Repetitive actions (washing, counting) to neutralize anxiety. A "vicious circle" where relief is only temporary.
TOC forms
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Contamination : Fear of germs → excessive washes.
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Verification toc : Fear of fire → Verification of sockets 20 times/day.
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Order toc : Need for perfect symmetry under penalty of "disaster".
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Impulsive toc : Fear of committing an involuntarily violent act.
Consequences of an untreated OCD
- Risk of depression (50% of cases).
- Social isolation and exhaustion.
Causes and diagnosis: a multifactorial disorder
Origins
- Genetic predisposition (60% in twins).
- Hi serotonin imbalance.
- Psychological factors (unconscious conflicts).
Diagnosis
- Obsessions/compulsions taking more than 1 hour/day.
- Major impact on quality of life.
Treatments: Therapy, drugs ... and CBD?
1. Behavioral psychotherapy (TCC)
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Gradual exposure : Face the anxiety -provoking situation (e.g. touching a handle without washing your hands).
- Reduction in 60% of symptoms according to studies.
2. Antidepressants (ISRS)
- Effective against obsessive thoughts (e.g. clomipramine).
- Visible effects after 2 months.
3. CBD: A promising track?
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Washington University Study : 60% reduction in compulsions and 52% of anxiety after cannabis consumption rich in CBD.
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Advantage : Not psychotropic and non -addictive.
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Boundaries : Short -term effects; Need for in -depth clinical studies.
Conclusion: Get out of the shadows
TOC is not weakness, but a neurobiological disorder that is treated. If cognitive therapies and SSRIs remain the pillars of treatment, CBD emerges as an additional option to explore. The main thing? Break the silence : Consulting a specialized psychiatrist or therapist allows you to regain control.
Retain
- TOC is treated, but requires tailor -made support.
- Do not minimize rituals that parasitize your daily life: ask for help.
Sources:
AFTOC (2018), Health Insurance, Vidal (2008), Journal of Affective Disorders.
