Australian researchers have found the genes linked to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) for the first time.

Scientists at QIMR Berghofer in Queensland did the biggest ever study into the mental health condition they say is “often misunderstood.”

They say it could now help treat some of the half a million Aussies who have it, and speed up diagnosis for others.

The global research, published in Nature Genetics, involved more than 50,000 people with OCD and two million people who did not have it.

It pinpointed approximately 250 genes linked to OCD.

“It’s exciting because this is the first study to identify specific genes linked to OCD,” said Professor Eske Derks, who leads the Translational Neurogenomics Laboratory at QIMR Berghofer.

“We’ve been working on this for many years, but these findings have dramatically increased our knowledge of the genetic basis of OCD.”

OCD is often categorised as an obsession with cleaning or checking.

However, it can take many forms, including people worrying about harming others, doubts about relationships and existential worries.

The study revealed that genes linked to OCD are most active in three key brain areas: the hippocampus, striatum, and cerebral cortex.

The findings align with previous studies.

“We found a really large number of genes which are shared with anxiety disorders, depression and also with anorexia nervosa,” Professor Derks said.

“There’s a lot of overlap in the genes that cause these different mental health conditions.”

Professor Derks called for more funding to take the research further.

“Our research team’s next steps involve leveraging these genetic findings to pinpoint existing medications, used for other illnesses, that could benefit OCD patients, opening up possibilities for more creative treatment solutions,” he stated.

OCD can start in late childhood or early teens, but can also begin for women after childbirth.

Treatments include psychological therapy, medication and community support.