OCD services

What is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

OCD is a mental health condition that typically causes recurring, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges called obsessions. You may also perform repetitive behaviors or have mental rituals called compulsions. 

It can begin during childhood or adolescence, but symptoms can also develop during adulthood. 

What are the symptoms of OCD?

OCD symptoms generally involve both obsessions and compulsions, although not everyone experiences them in the same way.

OCD obsessions

Obsessions are distressing urges or intrusive, unwanted thoughts and images. You may feel:

• Fear of germs or contamination
• Fear of making a mistake
• Excessive concern about causing harm
• Unwanted sexual or violent thoughts
• Fear of losing or misplacing something
• Concerns about order, symmetry, or perfection
• Excessive worry about illness, death, or safety

Having an intrusive thought doesn’t mean you want it to happen or that you’ll act on it. In fact, people with OCD often find these thoughts upsetting.

OCD compulsions

Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that you feel driven to perform. Examples include:

• Checking doors, appliances, or other things repeatedly
• Excessive handwashing or cleaning
• Counting or repeating actions
• Arranging objects in a particular way
• Repeating words or phrases
• Seeking repeated reassurance
• Frequently checking that you haven't caused harm
• Following specific routines or rituals

These behaviors can consume significant amounts of time and make everyday responsibilities more difficult.

What are my OCD treatment options?

Sharon discusses your symptoms, when they began, what triggers them, and how they affect your daily life, relationships, work, and personal goals. Your plan may include:

Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you recognize unhelpful thought patterns and develop healthier responses to anxiety.

Exposure and response prevention (ERP) gradually and safely exposes you to situations that trigger obsessive thoughts while helping you resist the urge to perform compulsions. Over time, this can help reduce the anxiety associated with your triggers.

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) may also help you develop healthier ways to respond to difficult thoughts and feelings.

Medication management

Medication may be recommended when OCD symptoms are moderate to severe or significantly interfere with your life. Sharon can discuss the potential benefits, risks, and side effects of medication and monitor your progress over time.

If you’re looking for expert OCD care, contact us online or by phone at Mindwellness Psychiatry LLC today.