A Guide to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, is a mental health condition that is characterized by intrusive thoughts, images, or impulses that are repetitive. People with this may feel the need to perform certain rituals or behaviors in order to relieve the anxiety caused by these thoughts which can interfere with their daily life in significant ways.
According to the International OCD Foundation, there are currently estimated to be 1 in 100 adults with OCD and 1 in 200 children/teens living with it. With it being such a prevalent condition affecting millions of people, we thought we'd provide some necessary information by looking at what OCD is, how it manifests, what the potential causes are, and how it can be treated.
What is it and what are some of the common ways it manifests
Once classified as an anxiety disorder, OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, is a mental health condition that can cause a person to have intrusive or unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors. Some of the most common ways it manifests include fear of contamination, fear of making mistakes, need for symmetry or order, and intrusive thoughts about harming oneself or others. The signs may appear gradually, and if left untreated, they can last a long time.
For people living with obsessive compulsions, these obsessive thoughts and behaviors can be extremely disruptive and cause a great deal of distress by being incredibly time consuming and by thoughts or actions repeating a number of times. In some cases, OCD can interfere with a person's ability to work, go to school, or even take care of their basic needs.
What are the potential causes of OCD
There is no definitive known cause of OCD, but rather it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the potential causes include:
1. Mental health disorders: OCD can be a symptom of other mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.
2. Past traumatic experiences: Childhood abuse or neglect, or a traumatic event in adulthood can trigger symptoms.
3. Genetics: OCD may be hereditary, as it often runs in families. In fact, according to this study, you are 25% more likely to get it if a family member had it.
How it is diagnosed
Not all habits or repetitious behaviors are the same as compulsions, and it is vital to understand the distinction. Everyone has repeated thoughts from time to time, and some people double-check items. To be diagnosed with OCD, one must have an experience characterized by the following:
There is presence of obsessions, compulsions, or both:
Obsessions are recurrent and persistent thoughts that are unwanted and that cause anxiety or distress.
Compulsions are clearly excessive, repetitive behaviors or mental acts that the individual feels driven to perform either in response to an obsession or in an aim to reduce anxiety or distress.
Obsessions or compulsions are time-consuming (e.g., take more that 1 hour per day)
The obsessive-compulsive symptoms are not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance or other medical condition.
The disturbance is not better explained by the symptoms of another mental disorder (e.g., excessive worries, as in generalized anxiety disorder; preoccupation with appearance, as in body dysmorphic disorder, etc.)
Because of these thoughts and behaviors, they are having substantial difficulties and disruptions in their everyday life
Although OCD usually begins in late adolescence or young adulthood, it can also affect younger children and teenagers. However, because these teens and kids often try to hide their symptoms from parents and teachers, the condition is frequently not discovered until later.
How can OCD be treated
OCD can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the severity of the disorder and the individual's preferences. Some common treatments include therapy, medication, and self-care.
Therapy is an important part of treatment for OCD. There are a number of different therapies that can be effective, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and mindfulness-based therapy. Therapists will work with individuals to develop a treatment plan that meets their needs.
Medication may be prescribed to help reduce the symptoms of OCD. This could include antidepressants, antipsychotics, or anticonvulsants. It is important to work with a psychiatrist or general practitioner to find the right medication and dosage for each person.
Self-care is also an important part of OCD treatment. This includes things like ensuring adequate sleep, exercise, and nutrition. It can also include relaxation techniques and stress management skills.
The Forms of OCD
While there are no specific subcategories, individuals with OCD experience a range of thought and behavior responses when confronted with situations that trigger obsessions and compulsions.Some of the most common forms include:
Compulsions for order, neatness, or tidiness of varying degrees
The need for cleanliness or lack of contamination
How to cope with OCD
Living with OCD can be difficult, but there are coping strategies to make it easier. Here are a few tips:
Recognize that OCD is a mental health condition
Educate yourself about OCD and its symptoms
Seek professional help from a mental health therapist or counselor
Attend a support group for people with OCD
Follow your mental health treatment plan closely
Be patient and positive – recovery from OCD takes time
OCD is a mental health disorder that can be extremely debilitating for those who suffer from it. Unfortunately, OCD is often misunderstood, and people who have it are sometimes left feeling alone and isolated. If you or someone you know suffers from OCD, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There is no shame in seeking treatment for mental health issues; in fact, it takes a lot of courage to admit that you need help and seek treatment.
The team at Roubicek and Thacker is dedicated to helping those who suffer from mental health disorders find relief and live fulfilling lives. We hope this article has been helpful and provided some useful insight into OCD.
Roubicek & Thacker Counseling is Fresno’s premier provider of individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We offer in-person and online remote therapy sessions. Contact us today to change the way you feel.