biological approach to treating ocd

synaptic transmission

electrical impulses travel down axon and trigger release of NT from vesicles

NT diffuse across synapse and bind to receptors of post synaptic membrane

stimulates postsynaptic receptors in either excitation or inhibition

SSRIs

prevents re uptake and break down of serotonin in the pre synaptic neuron

increases levels of serotonin so it can continue to stimulate the post synaptic neuron

better mood

anti anxiety drugs

BZs include valium and diazepam

enhance action of NT GABA which tells neurons to slow down and stop firing.

BZs have a quieting influence on the brain which reduces anxiety

characteristics of ocd

obsession

compulsion

anxiety