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The impact of climate change on obsessive compulsive checking concerns
Mairwen K Jones1, Bethany M Wootton, Lisa D Vaccaro
1The University of Sydney Anxiety Disorders Clinic, Discipline of Behavioural and Social Sciences in Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Lidcombe, Australia. mairwen.jones@sydney.edu.au
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry
|March 7, 2012
Summary
Climate change is influencing the obsessions and compulsions of individuals with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). A study found 28% of OCD patients exhibited concerns and rituals linked to climate change phenomena, impacting their daily lives.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by obsessions and compulsions.
- Climate change is a growing global concern with potential psychological impacts.
- The intersection of climate change and OCD symptomology has not been extensively studied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of climate change on the nature of obsessions and compulsions in patients with OCD.
- To identify specific climate change-related concerns and rituals in OCD patients.
Main Methods:
- The study included 50 patients diagnosed with the checking subtype of OCD.
- Participants sought treatment at an anxiety disorders clinic between March 2008 and November 2009.
- Data on obsessions and compulsions related to climate change phenomena were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- 28% of participants (14 out of 50) reported OCD concerns directly related to climate change.
- Common concerns included electricity, water, and gas wastage, as well as fears about pet welfare and property damage due to climate change.
- Compulsions focused on reducing environmental impact or responding to perceived climate change events, rather than traditional safety concerns.
Conclusions:
- A significant portion of OCD patients exhibit obsessions and compulsions aligned with climate change concerns.
- This study is the first to document the impact of climate change on the specific content of OCD symptoms in the checking subtype.
- Mental health professionals should consider assessing for climate change-related concerns in OCD patients.
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