108. How Can Genetic Factors Impact OCD and Addiction? with Dr. Evelyn Higgins

The OCD Whisperer Podcast with Kristina Orlova

Did you know that our genes can tell a story about our predisposition to OCD and addiction? Well, our genetic makeup isn't our destiny, but rather a blueprint that can be influenced by our environment. It's fascinating to think that we have the power to turn certain genes on or off!

In today’s episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, we are excited to welcome Dr. Evelyn Higgins, a trailblazer in understanding the intricate dance between our genes and our environment, especially when it comes to OCD and addiction.

During our conversation, we talk about the genetic and environmental aspects of OCD and addiction. We explore how personalized lab work can reveal unique physiological traits and genetic predispositions that contribute to these conditions. Dr. Higgins emphasizes the importance of understanding one's genetic makeup to make informed choices and potentially alter the expression of genes through environmental changes. We also discuss the affordability and accessibility of personalized treatment, the potential for insurance coverage, and the services offered by Wired Bio Health.

In This Episode

• [02:26] - Genetic standpoint of OCD and addiction
• [03:29] - Impact of environmental factors on gene expression
• [10:52] - Correlation between OCD and addiction
• [14:19] - Importance of personalized lab work
• [16:47] - Overview of traditional approaches to treating OCD
• [18:58] - Affordability and insurance coverage
• [20:43] - Accessibility and flexibility of treatment
• [22:44] - Advancements in mental health and addiction treatment
• [23:41] - The future of mental health screening

Notable Quotes

• [02:38] "We're not healthy one day and sick the next, or healthy one day and addicted the next. It's all the living that we do in between that brings us to either end of that spectrum." - Dr. Evelyn Higgins
• [02:50] “From a symptomatic standpoint, there are so many correlations that we see that bring somebody towards the addiction side of things, be it anxiety, be it depression, be it agitation.” - Dr. Evelyn Higgins
• [18:35] "There are so many more advances that have been made that people are not educated on and aren't using just because they don't know." - Dr. Evelyn Higgins

Our Guest

Dr. Evelyn Higgins is the founder and CEO of Wired Bio Health (formerly Wired for Addiction). Dr. Higgins is not only an expert in the epidemiology of addiction but also a certified addictionologist, a diplomat of the American College of Addiction Allergy and Compulsive Disorders, and a diplomat of the American Board of Disability Analysts specializing in pain management. With over 17 years dedicated to mental health and addiction research, she recently graced international stages as a TED speaker panelist, solidifying her status as a top innovator in healthcare.

Resources & Links

Kristina Orlova, LMFT

• https://www.instagram.com/ocdwhisperer/
• https://www.youtube.com/c/OCDWhispererChannel
• https://www.korresults.com/
• https://www.onlineocdacademy.com

Dr. Evelyn Higgins

• https://doctorhiggins.com/
• https://www.wiredbiohealth.com/
• Understanding Genetic Markers of Addiction

**Disclaimer**

Please note, while our host is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders in the state of California, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for therapy.

Stay tuned for bi-weekly episodes filled with valuable insights and tips for managing OCD and anxiety. And remember, keep going in the meantime. See you in the next episode!