University of Wollongong
New Study Aims to Improve Understanding of Brain Activity in OCD
Research currently being conducted at the University of Wollongong is hoped to eventually lead to improved understanding and treatment of psychological problems such as Obsessive ¬Compulsive Disorder and Panic Disorder. The research is focused on discovering how patterns of brain activity differ between people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, those with Panic Disorder and people without a psychological disorder when they are thinking about emotional information. The research team has access to sophisticated technology including state-of-the-art EEG and event-related potential (ERP) equipment that measures brain electrical activity in new ways to help understand particularly how and why people with OCD seem especially sensitive to anxiety and guilt related themes in their environment, and the reasons why OCD sufferers have "sticky minds" and can't let go of unwanted thoughts or images.
The research is being conducted as part of a PhD by Sue Thomas, a registered psychologist, under the supervision of Associate Professor Craig Gonsalvez & Dr Stuart Johnstone of the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences.
In the past, Associate Prof. Gonsalvez has been the Director of the Anxiety Clinic at Westmead Hospital, has developed and has run out-, day- and in-patient treatment programs for OCD in Westmead & St. John of God Hospitals. He maintains close links with OCD support groups, has contributed articles to the Anxiety Disorders Alliance Newsletter, and presented lectures at OCD support-group meetings. The current PhD thesis is one of several ventures by the University of Wollongong to contribute to OCD research. Ms Thomas, Dr. Gonsalvez, and their co-researchers are now calling for volunteers to help in the study. People required are:
- Adults (18 years plus)
- With a diagnosis of either Panic Disorder or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder from a doctor or health professional
- Not having another serious current psychological condition (for example, major depression, drug or alcohol dependence)
Participants will usually come on two occasions to the University of Wollongong. On the first visit, they will be interviewed by a psychologist, and asked to complete a computerised interview and some questionnaires about their psychological symptoms.
On the second visit, brain activity, heart rate, and skin conductance (changes in perspiration levels on the fingers) will be measured while participants are looking at different types of words on a computer screen and performing simple tasks.
Brain electrical activity will be measured from a cap, which sits on the head and is fitted with a number of electrodes that record minute electrical changes as they occur within the brain. The procedure is non-invasive and should involve no discomfort. Participants will be paid travel expenses (those coming from Sydney, $20 per visit).
Anyone wishing to participate in the study, or wanting further information should contact (02) 4221 3660.