OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER
OCD
It is not uncommon for people to check things or engage in habitual behaviors that decrease their worry and reassure them that everything is as it should be. For example, many people will check to make sure the stove is off, or that their front door is locked, and these behaviors do not interfere with daily living or functioning. With Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) however, you will often have rituals that you cannot refrain from doing, without causing distress and interrupting daily living. You may have intrusive thoughts that just don’t seem to stop without reassurance or engaging in a compulsion. It is hard to find a peaceful moment, and often engaging in the compulsions and rituals only reinforces the cycle and your OCD gets worse in the long run.
Symptoms of OCD
- Recurring obsessions or intrusive thoughts.
- Compulsions (such as hand washing, counting, checking) that are often recognized as excessive. You are unable to stop these compulsions without distress and they interfere with your daily life functions.
- Often feeling depressed about the inability to control your thoughts and compulsions.
- Feeling anxious much of the time, especially when trying to refrain from compulsions.
Treatment Options
The course of treatment is a decision we will make together. For OCD there are two main proven interventions available to you:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Specifically Exposure and Response Prevention
- Pharmacotherapy
Both interventions have data supporting their efficacy and both can be extremely helpful. At your consultation I will provide you with education on these options and answer any questions you may have. You will choose what you are comfortable with and what is the best option for you at this time.
