The Science of OCD & Eating Disorders [IRE]

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For millions of years, our stress response has been shaped by evolution to help keep us safe– whether by escaping predators on the African Savannah or tackling a pressing deadline. While these systems once kept us alive, in today’s world they can sometimes work against us.

In this workshop, we will explore the neurobiological and psychological foundations of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and eating disorders, both of which arise from disruptions in the body’s stress response. We will look at why responses that were once helpful can, in today’s environment, become overwhelming – leading to compulsive behaviours, intrusive thoughts, and coping strategies that do more harm than good. By understanding the shared connections and differences between OCD and eating disorders, we can better recognise how these conditions develop, why treatment is often challenging, and what approaches may lead to more effective and compassionate care.

Workshop Highlights:

• Understand the neurobiological and psychological foundations of OCD and eating disorders
• Explore how dysregulated stress responses fuel compulsive behaviours and distorted thinking
• Explain how traits once adaptive for survival can become maladaptive in modern environments
• Gain insights into the co-morbidity between OCD and eating disorders, along with possible paths to treatment and recovery

About your host:

Dr Athanasios Hassoulas is an Associate Professor in Medical Education at Cardiff University’s School of Medicine. He also serves as the Director of the HIVE (Hybrid and Immersive Virtual Environments) Innovative Teaching Unit and previously held the position of Director of the MSc Psychiatry programme. His primary research focuses on anxiety disorders, particularly Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a condition he has a personal connection to, having been diagnosed with OCD at the age of 16. Dr Hassoulas openly shares his experiences, combining his research expertise with his lived experience of the condition, and has been interviewed by BBC Wales and other media outlets as an OCD subject expert. He is passionate about challenging the stigma surrounding mental illness and is dedicated to understanding the factors that contribute to psychiatric conditions like OCD, with the goal of advancing more targeted and personalised treatments.

Testimonials from our guests

⭐ Very interesting talks and lots to learn. Well put together talks and lectures. Would definitely go again. - Mark M 

⭐ Expertly run, talks are always super informative and a lot of fun! Couldn’t recommend these enough! 5 star. - Owen S

⭐ Great events, amazing speakers on important topics, would recommend! - Scott F