Many who live with mental health disorders, find solace and self-expression through creativity. Studies have shown that those living with mental health disorders who are creative, for instance writers, musicians, or artists, cope better with their condition in comparison to those who are non-creative1. In this blog, we will focus on how those living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) often seek refuge in creative outlets.
What is OCD?
OCD is a mental health condition characterised by two primary components: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions typically manifest as intrusive, distressing thoughts, images, or urges that repeatedly enter a person’s mind. These thoughts are often irrational and can vary widely, from fears of contamination to concerns about harm coming to loved ones. Compulsions, on the other hand, are repetitive behaviours or mental acts that individuals with OCD feel compelled to perform to alleviate the anxiety caused by their obsessions, however, this relief is only temporary.
An estimated three-quarters of a million people are living with and affected by OCD in the UK2.
OCD and Creativity
For many individuals with OCD, engaging in expressive art becomes a therapeutic escape from the intrusive thoughts and compulsions that often dominate their minds. Whether through painting, drawing, writing, or other creative outlets, the act of self-expression provides a medium to externalize internal struggles, offering a tangible form to intangible emotions.
On the other hand, as opposed to an escape, their creative outlet can often be used as a way of visualising their abstract, often chaotic, intrusive thoughts. They can communicate, both to themselves and others, the nuances of their experiences in ways that verbal communication may fail to capture, fostering a sense of understanding and connection. In one study, individuals living with OCD participated in a theatrical performance exploring their OCD diagnosis and stigma surrounding the condition for family and friends; participants reported an improved understanding, less guilt about their condition and a better sense of acceptance from their peers3.
Many individuals with OCD experience a profound need for order and control. This often manifests as a sub-type of the condition known as symmetry and ordering OCD, it’s thought to impact around 46% of people living with OCD4. Creativity provides a way for individuals to create structure and organisation through their artistry, allowing them to channel their desire for order in a constructive manner.
Creativity can also act as a benefit for overall wellbeing. Engaging in creative activities requires focus and concentration, resembling mindfulness practices and diverting their attention from their intrusive thoughts and compulsions. Furthermore, creative pursuits can often lead people living with OCD to artistic communities where they can connect with other creative individuals. Supportive environments like this allows for further understanding and for celebration of creativity.
Improving Quality of Life for OCD
If you are currently living with OCD or OCD symptoms that are impacting your daily life and feel that your current antidepressant medication is not fully helping, you could be eligible to take part in the latest OCD clinical trial at MAC Clinical Research
The trial is investigating a medication that is thought to target a different signalling pathway in the brain to current OCD treatments, which may help to control obsessive or compulsive behaviours. With your participation, you may be able to contribute to scientific research, which could lead to a new medicine to help people living with OCD.
The trial is taking place at MAC clinics in Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, South Staffordshire, South Yorkshire, Teesside, and West Yorkshire.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be aged between 18 and 65 years old.
- Have had OCD or OCD symptoms for at least 1 year that is affecting your everyday life.
- Feel that your current OCD medication (antidepressant) is not fully working.
Eligible participants may receive up to £490 for their time and commitment to the study, along with reasonable travel costs. If the treatment works, you may be allowed to continue taking it (known as an open-label extension) for up to 48 weeks. For more information on how you can get involved, visit our OCD Research page.
1 Indian Journal of Psychiatry – Creativity and mental health: A profile of writers and musicians
2 NHS Inform – Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
3 Healthcare – Inside OCD: Perspectives on the Value of Storytelling with Individuals with OCD and Family Members
4 Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry – Symmetry symptoms in obsessive-compulsive disorder: clinical and genetic correlates
