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Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: What is it? What are the symptoms and treatment

Sep 6, 2024

3 min read

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Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic illness characterized by recurrent, uncontrollable thoughts (called obsessions), repeated activities (called compulsions), or both. OCD sufferers experience persistent symptoms that might interfere with everyday life or cause severe anguish. A person with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a type of chronic anxiety, may engage in repetitive behaviors (compulsions) as a result of recurrent disruptive thoughts (obsessions). Anxiety about thoughts or rituals over which you believe you have little control is a hallmark of OCD. OCD can take numerous forms.  OCD can manifest in a variety of ways. In general, OCD is divided into two parts:

1. Obsessions (disruptive thoughts)

2. Compulsions (behaviour)

 

What Are Obsessions?

Obsessions are persistent, intrusive thoughts, images, or impulses that cause distressing emotions like anxiety or fear.

Some of the common obsessions are with:

  • Fear of germs or contamination

  • Fear of forgetting, losing, or misplacing something

  • Fear of losing control over one’s behavior

  • Aggressive thoughts toward others or oneself

  • Unwanted, forbidden, or taboo thoughts involving sex, religion, or harm

  • Desire to have things symmetrical or in perfect order

People with OCD often recognize that these thoughts are excessive or unreasonable, but they struggle to control them.


What Are Compulsions?

Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that individuals with OCD feel driven to perform in response to their obsessions.


Some of the common compulsions are:

  • Excessive cleaning or handwashing

  • Ordering or arranging items in a particular, precise way

  • Repeatedly checking things, such as that the door is locked or the oven is off

  • Praying or repeating words silently

  • Repeated cleaning of household objects.

  • Frequently seeking approval or reassurance.

  • Rituals related to numbers, such as counting, repeating, or doing things a certain number of times (for example, three times).


    People with OCD may avoid circumstances or individuals that cause distress, leading to obsessions and compulsions. For example, people may avoid leaving the house because they are concerned about infecting the home and family members when they return. Avoiding these items may further impede their capacity to function in life and may be harmful to other aspects of mental or physical health.

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What are the risk factors for OCD?

Although the exact causes of OCD are unknown, various risk factors increase the chances of developing the disorder.

  • Genetics

  • Biology

  • Temperament

  • Childhood trauma

Best treatment for Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) ?

Treatment helps many people, even those with the most severe forms of OCD. Mental health professionals treat OCD with medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of treatments. A mental health professional can help you decide which treatment option is best for you and explain the benefits and risks of each. 

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy can be an effective treatment for adults and children with OCD.

Recommended techniques/approaches are:

·    Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

·    Exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP)

·    Behaviour Therapy

 

Medications:

  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for OCD, either alone or alongside therapy.

  • These medications can help reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.


Advanced Treatments:

For severe cases where traditional therapies do not work, options like deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be considered.


Self-Care

On its own, leading a healthy lifestyle won't help those suffering from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Cognitive-behavioral treatment (ERP, ritual prevention, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and antidepressants are required. A healthy lifestyle has various health benefits and may aid in living with obsessive-compulsive disorder. A person's emotional and physical well-being can benefit from a regular sleep schedule, nutritious diet, regular exercise, and positive social interactions. Also, using relaxation techniques (when not doing exposure exercises) for anxiety & stress management such as meditation, yoga, visualization, and massage might help with easing the stress and anxiety that OCD causes.


Hope for Recovery

OCD can feel overwhelming, but with the right treatment and support, individuals can live fulfilling, balanced lives. Raising awareness and encouraging open conversations about OCD are vital to reducing stigma and helping more people seek help.


References









Sep 6, 2024

3 min read

0

35

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