What is OCD?
OCD or obsessive-compulsive disorder is a mental health condition in which unwelcome thoughts, fears, or obsessions cause you to do repetitive behaviors. Obsessions and compulsions associated with OCD can feel stressful and interfere with your everyday life, including your job, school, or interpersonal relationships. Treatment can offer symptom relief.
What are the symptoms of OCD?
If you or a loved one experiences OCD, you might notice certain signs or symptoms relating to either obsessions and/or compulsions:
Obsessions
- Repeating, persistent thoughts
- Fear of dirt or germs
- Inability to tolerate uncertainty
- The need for symmetry and order
- Horrific or aggressive thoughts
- Undesirable thoughts
- Doubts about locking doors
- Chronic stress
- Unpleasant sexual images
- Avoiding obsession triggers
- Not shaking hands because of germs
Compulsions
- Repetitive behaviors
- Rituals
- Obsessive cleaning
- Excessive hand washing
- Constantly checking or counting
- Orderliness
- Demanding reassurance
- Following strict routines
- Checking the door or stove repeatedly
- Counting in patterns
- Arranging canned foods a certain way
- Repeating words, phrases, or prayers
Mild cases of obsessions or compulsions may not bother you or others, but moderate to severe cases can be problematic. Turn to the Sal Psychiatry Services team for relief.
What are the risk factors for OCD?
While anybody can develop OCD, some factors boost your risk of experiencing it. Examples include genetics, family history of OCD, watching OCD behaviors in other people, stressful life events, and having another mental health disorder (depression, anxiety, substance abuse, etc.).
Complications associated with untreated OCD include health problems, issues with work, school, or relationships, a poor quality of life, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
How does my doctor diagnose OCD?
To diagnose your condition and develop an effective treatment, your psychiatrist reviews your symptoms and medical history. They complete a physical exam to rule out underlying medical problems and a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation.
What are my treatment options?
If you struggle with OCD, your mental health specialist might suggest you try:
Counseling
Counseling for OCD often includes cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention, and other strategies that help you better respond to or prevent obsessive thought and behavior patterns.
Medications
Taking certain medications, or changing up your current medication regimen, can reduce symptoms associated with OCD.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
With noninvasive TMS, your mental health specialist uses magnetic energy to stimulate nerve cells in your brain to reduce undesirable symptoms. The procedure is fast and painless.
Don’t let OCD take over your life when help is within reach at Sal Psychiatry Services. Schedule an appointment over the phone or request one online today to find relief.
