For people with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), intrusive thoughts become obsessions about a variety of negative or disturbing topics that lead to repetitive urges or compulsive behaviors to alleviate the stress of the obsessions. If not treated, OCD can be debilitating and interfere with your everyday life.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD often begins in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood, with the first symptoms most often appearing between 8-12 years old
8
million U.S. adults will develop OCD during their lives
50
of people with OCD improve with a combo of medication and therapy
Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Common Symptoms
Most people with OCD deal with both obsessive thoughts and resulting compulsions, although it’s possible to only suffer from one or the other.
Obsessive or intrusive thoughts can include:
- Fear of germs of contamination
- Fear of harming yourself or others
- Unwanted thoughts about sex or religion
- Fear of losing control or a strong need for symmetry/order
- Extreme worry that something is not complete (i.e. the stove at home was left on)
Compulsions are behaviors a person with OCD feels compelled to perform in response to an obsessive thought. When these behaviors become rituals that take up enough time in the day, a normal routine becomes difficult.
Example of compulsions include:
- Excessive hand washing, showering, or tooth brushing
- Ordering or arranging things in a certain way
- Repeated cleaning of items around the house
- Repeatedly checking home locks, appliances, doors, etc.
- Counting or repeating numbers
Causes
The exact cause is unknown, but there are various risk factors that may contribute:
- Genetics: Having a first degree relative with OCD increases your chances of having it
- Biology: Those with OCD often have differences in the areas of the brain that impact the ability to control emotional response and behaviors
- Environment: Stressful life events, trauma, abuse, or neglect can trigger OCD
How We Can Help
Even the most severe forms of OCD can be improved through treatment. Effective treatment plans may include a combination of talk therapy and medication.
MindGlow Health providers are experienced in treating OCD. Drawing on a vibrant legacy of nearly 25 years at the forefront of behavioral health excellence, our providers will work one on one with you to create a tailored program designed to treat your unique needs and concerns.
Talk Therapy Benefits
Talk therapy can be a key part of treating and managing depression.
Mindglow Health providers will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that may include one of a variety of styles of therapy to help you identify negative thought patterns and behaviors. They may use other tools and exercises to reduce symptoms, while recommending certain lifestyle changes to support your mental health journey.
All our therapists are licensed, qualified, and experienced mental health professionals.
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Medication Management
Medication may be necessary for some people with OCD. Research has shown that there is benefit to therapy and medication for some patients, whereas others will be able to benefit from therapy alone.
If medication is recommended to reduce symptoms and improve your mood, your therapist will work with our psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNP) to prescribe an appropriate medication as part of a unique program that works for you.
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