Prediction and Early Intervention in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

While obsessions (intrusive, unwelcome thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive, cumbersome behaviors) are experienced by many children and young people, we currently cannot predict when these features might become highly impairing for an individual, sometimes leading to a diagnosis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). To meet this gap, we aim to develop a tool to pinpoint who is likely to develop OCD and when. We will combine easily obtainable information, often found in medical records, with more complex information on genetic make- up and brain features, to find out which type of information helps most in prediction. Along with those living with OCD and clinical teams, we will explore how, when and where such tools are best used. We also aim to develop an online intervention for parents of children likely to develop OCD that is accessible, usable and effective. We are working in three nations, Brazil, the UK and Sweden, so this intervention can incorporate the experiences of those with OCD across several cultures, ensuring the intervention can be used widely. At each step of this research, those with lived experience of OCD will shape our goals, help with the research, and make sure findings are meaningful and shared widely.